Environment, Social, Governance and Hospitality
The rise in Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies in the corporate world is evident of a growing awareness of the interconnectedness between business operations, environmental impact, social responsibility, and ethical governance.
Why should the hospitality industry care about ESG strategies?
ESG strategies not only promote sustainable practices and ethical operations but also enhance brand reputation and long-term profitability. It can attract environmentally and socially conscious consumers, investors, and partners, fostering positive relationships and driving business growth.
ESG also supports in:
• promoting sustainability
• protecting our site locations
• supporting local communities
• fostering responsible practices
• enhancing efficiency for our people
• enhancing the industry and brand’s reputation
By reducing environmental impact, waste, and conserving resources, the hospitality sector becomes more sustainable, benefiting both guests and assets. Additionally, ESG promotes an inclusive and diverse workforce that reflects the international customer base of many hotels and aligns with many guests’ values.
ESG at ahs hospitality
ahs hospitality is an outsourced housekeeping services provider operating in Australia and New Zealand with a strong commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices.
Sustainability in supply chain
Recognising the importance of sustainability in today’s business landscape, ahs has evaluated its equipment, technology, and supply chain to optimise its operations and enhance its value proposition. The company has formed partnerships with suppliers like Diversey, Hub OS, and Bunzl, who share their ESG initiatives, aiming to demonstrate a commitment to responsible business practices while delivering commercial value.
Employee Value Proposition (EVP)
In addition to their focus on sustainability, ahs hospitality emphasises Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEB) within their industry. As they operate in a competitive labour market, they understand the significance of providing an attractive Employee Value Proposition and a supportive company culture. With an employee base comprising 89 nationalities, ahs hospitality emphasises the importance of inclusivity in attracting and retaining talent in their workforce.
“We strive to create an environment that is safe, welcoming, and celebrates differences based on ethnicity, sexual orientation, location, professional background, heritage, life experience, religious beliefs, and race.”
– Leanne Graham, Executive General Manager
Furthermore, ahs hospitality recognises the many benefits that nurturing a diverse workforce offers their company, outside of the obvious wider community advantages, including:
- diverse perspectives
- improved problem-solving skills
- improved creativity and innovation
- increased adaptability and resilience
- greater attraction to a wider candidate pool
- a greater empathy and understanding of the diverse guests they serve
Creating an inclusive space
Demonstrating their commitment to their ESG initiatives, ahs hospitality invested and participated in numerous cultural observances to show their workforce they value an inclusive and diverse workforce.
They celebrated Harmony Week and their workforce’s cultural diversity with cook-offs, games, and events. They changed their branding, pushed out communications, and had employees voluntarily engage in celebrations to recognise WorldPride and Pride Month. Outside of cultural observances, they launched a Reconciliation Action Plan to show their commitment to education and respect of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and cultures. They also achieved endorsement from WORK180, after a rigorous audit of their standards and practices for women in their workplace.
ahs hospitality’s strong commitment to ESG practices is evident from their focus on sustainability, supply chain optimisation, and emphasis on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. Their dedication to responsible and inclusive business operations fosters a positive impact on both their workforce and the environment.
To learn more about ahs hospitality visit ahshospitality.com.au.
