The conference featured a number of seminars presented by Hostelworld professionals and other presenters aimed to aid those of us in the business. From introducing new technology that could eliminate reception desks (you read that right) to workshops on how to tailor marketing strategies for 2020, all participants left with plenty of knowledge to kick-start a successful year.
Arguably the most moving of seminars was the segment, “Building a Better World.” It’s become clear that customers are passionate about the community, the environment, and other similar issues. Travelers and consumers want to support both sustainable and ethical brands, and Mad Monkey is so honored to announce that we were asked to present our CSR business model to the Hostelworld community.
“What started as a basic hostel in the heart of Cambodia’s capital some nine years ago has become one of the largest hostel chains in the world, equipped with onsite restaurants, tours, and more—but with this enormous growth comes great responsibility—to the Mad Monkey team, our investors, and customers,” said Kelly Iverson, the comprehensive marketing manager of Mad Monkey. “That’s where CSR comes in.”
Iverson went on to explain how Mad Monkey’s CSR (corporate social responsibility) business model has helped guide the company to be socially accountable in all aspects of its existence in all 13 and counting properties. From phasing out single-use plastic in 2020 to hosting weekly beach cleanup in all of our hostels found anywhere near a coastline, CSR aligns with Mad Monkey’s values and not only betters the communities but also betters a customers’ experience.
According to Hostelworld’s Hostel Traveler Study and Hostel Operator Survey conducted in 2019, customers want to volunteer in things like community activities. If these aren’t organized by the actual hostels, it is estimated that some 69% of customers are organizing these community efforts themselves. This just goes to show that adopting a CSR business model in addition to sustainable business efforts is the way of the future for accommodation options in 2020.
