The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the hotel sector considerably, not only as a result of having to close during the months of lockdown but also due to the current slowdown in demand. A number of reports have indicated that recovery will depend mainly on domestic tourism and suggested that the choice of hotel by those who can take holidays will be based on their confidence in the establishment’s health and hygiene measures and the quality of its service.

Grup Bonanova is a holding company presided by Mariano Ganduxer and whose brands are City Hotels Hispania (CHH) and Hoteles Atenea. An ASCEF member, it is a good example of how to adapt to such difficult circumstances. “We have developed a rigorous opening protocol that includes the new procedures for guaranteeing the health and safety of employees and customers. This has involved more frequent cleaning and the use of specific approved products; also less textile decoration, the removal of paper (menus, information in rooms etc.), the introduction of new formulas for breakfasts and online check-in and check-out, among other measures”, explains Diana Ganduxer, the co-President of the Group.

This new way of organising hotels counts with the collaboration of customers “as everyone is aware that this is a unique situation that requires exceptional safety and hygiene measures for the benefit of all. This effort on our part gives our customers peace of mind and is the key to being competitive,” Ms Ganduxer explains.

Despite all this and a confidence in the future, the sector’s prospects remain uncertain. “At present, the occupancies forecast for this summer are no greater than 30% and the prices are worse than in the 2008 crisis. However, despite all the uncertainty surrounding us, as a family business and economic driving force we have partially resumed activity because we want to be part of the recovery and convey confidence to our teams”, she adds.