CSR and Sustainability

📚 In 2023, INC Architecture & Design, led by Drew Stuart, Adam Rolston, and Gabriel Benroth, achieved Climate Neutral Certification. Their projects include the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport, Papa San in Hudson Yards, and the 529-room Kimpton Era Midtown New York hotel. Future developments are the Nashville EDITION Hotel & Residences slated for 2028 and Utah’s Velvaere Park City. Manifest 002 opened in Washington, DC in 2025, and Super Peach in Los Angeles in 2023.

📈 In 2026, GCSTIMES maintained its EcoVadis Silver Medal, signifying strong sustainability efforts. The award, given by EcoVadis to the top 15% of assessed companies, underscores GCSTIMES' dedication to ethical and sustainable business practices in the hospitality industry. EcoVadis, a leader in sustainability ratings, evaluates companies on environmental impact, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. GCSTIMES thanks its partners and team for their vital role in this achievement.

🏨 Cairn Hotel Group, headquartered in Newcastle, was named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026, among the top 126 large UK employers. They introduced Cairn Concierge, a digital platform enhancing staff benefits and communication. Internal surveys showed 83% of employees feel safe, and 80% feel empowered and satisfied. Sean Brookes, COO, highlighted investments in HR, payroll, and team development, emphasizing the importance of a supportive culture in hospitality.

🏨 In Mendocino, Northern California, Soul Community Planet (SCP) Hotels exemplifies balance between guest experience and profitability. SCP outperforms others in business metrics while delivering exceptional hospitality and environmental responsibility. Founded by Pamela Cruse and Ken Cruse, SCP prioritizes community engagement and workplace empowerment. Ken and Pam discussed their business strategies on Hospitality Daily, offering insights on achieving performance with purpose. Explore more by tuning in to the Hospitality Daily Podcast available on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

🌏 Charles Nsabimana, a conservationist at Singita, emphasizes a reciprocal relationship with nature. Singita, with lodges in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Rwanda, exemplifies a deep commitment to environmentalism beyond typical sustainability. Founded in 1993, the brand's efforts have enhanced its reputation, boosting year-round positive media attention and RevPAR. With climate change and travelers preferring purpose-driven brands, Singita's focus on conservation, cultural stewardship, and the Triple Bottom Line is crucial for future hospitality growth.

🏛️ Selldorf Architects, STUDIOS Architecture, and BASE Paysagiste to renovate Louvre's eastern façade in Paris, focusing on sustainability; construction timeline pending. Studio Gang completed the 6,800 sq ft Samuel H. Scripps Theater in New York's Hudson Valley with solar panels and rainwater systems. Brooklyn's Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower to become a food hall in 2027. Mark Cline's sculptures spotlight Route 66's upcoming 100th anniversary. ICFF 2026 showcased in NYC from May 17.