Companies must embrace Corporate Social Responsibility now or risk falling foul of future legislation.
This was the general opinion of the expert panel at yesterday’s Travelmole Travel Industry Question Time on CSR at the Hilton Tower Bridge.
Paul Tilstone, executive director for the Institute of Travel Management, said companies should not worry about any initial costs involved.
“Implementing CSR policies might cost you now, but it will certainly cost you money in the future if you don’t,” he said.
“There is money in being a supporter of CSR, especially if you get a first move advantage, but you must not start shouting about it to your customers until you can make sure you can validate your claims.”
First Choice head of CSR Jane Ashton claimed the tour operator was leading the way when it comes to being socially responsible.
“There have been upfront costs involved, but these have been more than outweighed by the benefits,” she said.
Sue Hurdle, chief executive of the Travel Foundation, said businesses must embrace CSR now because it will eventually become seen as standard practice.
“These is a need for governments to put pressure on businesses, but there is also a need for the travel companies to show leadership,” she said.
“The challenge is to build CSR into the core fabric of the product. In future, I believe your customers will come to expect it. It will be like health and safety.”
By Bev Fearis
