SOCIETY
BUSINESS: 532 PRACTICES
BUSINESS: 532 PRACTICES
The initiative aims to empower local communities in the destinations where Group operates (in Athens, Kamena Vourla, Corfu, Crete, Kos, and Rhodes) by increasing local employment by 75% by 2025, supporting local producers, and promoting local events and community participation. It also focuses on informing visitors about traditions and local activities to highlight the local cultural heritage and strengthen local communities. Additionally, the initiative includes contributing to socially vulnerable groups and supporting the work of distinguished charitable organizations. Finally, it includes supporting local communities during crises and natural disasters, adopting and maintaining public spaces, supporting more than 30 local sports teams, and collaborating with public organizations to improve the quality of life and resilience of the destinations.
The initiatives are primarily directed at the local communities of the Group's destinations: Athens, Kamena Vourla, Corfu, Crete, Kos, and Rhodes. Additionally, they target hotel employees, visitors, charitable organizations, local producers and suppliers, public institutions, and local sports teams. The goal is to enhance community participation, support the local economy, and improve the quality of life for residents.
The initiative is ongoing and started in 2020, with the goal of achieving specific targets by 2025 and providing continuous support and development to the local communities where Mitsis Group operates.
The initiative for empowering local communities is part of the Mitsis Group's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. The strategy focuses on increasing local employment, supporting local producers, and enhancing the Group's collaboration with the communities at its destinations. By 2025, the Group aims for 75% of its employees to be residents of its destinations, with 67% already achieved in 2022. To attract local talent, the Group offers year-round employment opportunities, provides financial incentives, and offers opportunities for professional and personal development.
Supporting the local primary sector is also a key element of the initiative. The Mitsis Group provides more than 20 million euros annually to over 100 local producers and suppliers. The Group emphasizes sustainable sourcing practices and maintains transparent communication with its suppliers.
Additionally, the Group offers financial support for local events and promotes local activities to its visitors, encouraging their participation. Employees receive training to foster their cooperation with local communities. Visitors are also informed about local customs, events, and businesses, encouraging them to support the local community.
The initiative places significant emphasis on supporting vulnerable communities. The Mitsis Group provides social meals and food donations to the Holy Metropolises and Municipalities, assists public authorities and residents during crises, and adopts public spaces, taking responsibility for their maintenance.
Furthermore, the Mitsis Group supports various charitable organizations. It provides financial assistance and resources to "Ark of the World" to support vulnerable mothers and children, and supports expectant mothers on remote islands through its collaboration with HOPEgenesis. The Group also aids marginalized groups in Rhodes through the organization "Care & Act," fulfills wishes of children with critical illnesses in collaboration with "Make-A-Wish Greece," and organizes annual blood drives through the "Mitsis Enterprises Volunteer Blood Donors Association," having donated over 400 blood units to local blood banks since 2017.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Mitsis Group supports public entities through in-kind donations and provides aid during emergencies. The Group adopts and maintains public spaces in the city of Rhodes and constructed a playground in Kardamaina, Kos, in 2019 in honor of its founder. As part of its collaboration with the Real Madrid Academy, the Group also renovated a public football field in Kos.
The Mitsis Group's support extends to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and security forces annually. Additionally, the Group sponsors over 30 local athletes and sports teams, promoting a healthy lifestyle and community development. Through its holistic approach, the Mitsis Group significantly contributes to the sustainable development and well-being of local communities.
Local communities in the areas of operation of the Mitsis Group, specifically in Athens, Kamena Vourla, Corfu, Crete, Kos, and Rhodes.
The Mitsis Group collaborates with multiple organizations and charitable groups to empower local communities and achieve its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) goals. Specifically, it partners with established and local NGOs such as Ark of the World, HOPEgenesis, Make-A-Wish Greece, and "Care & Act," as well as public entities such as hospitals, schools, police departments, fire and military services, sports clubs, and environmental and cultural organizations.
Employees of the Mitsis Group actively participate in various initiatives and volunteer programs that enhance social responsibility and support local communities. Specifically, they receive training to strengthen collaboration with local communities, promoting a culture of participation and contribution. Additionally, they participate in annual blood drives organized by the Group's Volunteer Blood Donors Association, donating over 400 blood units to local blood banks since 2017. Employees are also actively involved in local events and charitable activities, thereby contributing to the well-being and development of the communities in which the Group operates.
The increase in local employment, with the percentage of local employees reaching 67% in 2022, enhances social cohesion and reduces unemployment in the areas of operation. Participation in charitable activities and support for vulnerable groups improve the positive image of the Mitsis Group among the general public. Transparent communication with over 100 local suppliers through the monthly newsletter enhances business relationships and promotes sustainable development. Active participation in local events and support for sports teams and athletes increases the acceptance and trust of the local community towards the Group. Additionally, the annual contribution of more than 20 million euros to local producers and suppliers supports the local economy and contributes to the sustainability of local businesses. Informing visitors about local customs and businesses enhances their experience and increases the likelihood of their return, as well as the positive spread of the Group's reputation. Finally, aligning actions with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) strengthens the Group's commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.