Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.2478/bsrj-2025-0020
Measuring Social Impact and Enhancing Workforce Integration in Croatia’s Hotel Industry: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Perspectives
Nenad Filipović
; IEDC – Bled School of Management, Slovenia
Patricia Uroić
; Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Croatia
*
Josip Mikulić
orcid.org/0000-0001-7079-668X
; Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Background: Croatia’s hotel industry faces persistent labour shortages and a rising reliance on foreign workers, underscoring the importance of structured workplace integration and measurable social outcomes. Objective: This paper proposes a sector-specific framework for social impact and integration aligned with EU sustainability directives and leading Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Approach: Drawing on literature and insights from three Croatian hotel leaders, we synthesise integration practices and map them to relevant indicators. Results: We identify actionable metrics and governance levers that improve employee satisfaction, retention, and community cohesion. Implications: The framework supports transparent ESG reporting and practical workforce strategies for sustainable tourism growth. In addition, the study makes a conceptual contribution by linking workforce integration practices to ESG reporting requirements, and a practical contribution by offering a structured indicator set tailored to the hospitality sector. This positions the paper as a conceptual, case-informed research article with both academic and managerial relevance.
Keywords
Social impact; workforce integration; hotel industry; Croatia
Hrčak ID:
340488
URI
Publication date:
12.2.2025.
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