A pan-European promotion and industry podcast to champion people working in the hospitality sector has been unveiled by Accor.

The Heart of Hospitality initiative hopes to reunite the nation in support of the sector and the people who make it so special.

The campaign, which includes an independent microsite to share inspiring stories of lives in hospitality, aims to give voice to workers across the hospitality industry.

Accor Northern Europe chief executive Duncan O’Rourke, who is hosting the industry podcast, said: “Heart is what our industry is built on. We are a people business, that’s all that matters in our sector; people – our people, our partners and our guests.

“Every hospitality venue is built on the heart and soul that passionate, creative and hardworking people put into it every day.

“Every person, guest or talent, that steps foot into a hotel or hospitality venue is seeking an experience, an emotional connection to a person or moment.

“That’s why our sector is so important and why it’s been so missed in the last 18 months. It’s a sector that cares deeply every day. Hospitality matters because it has heart.”

Accor is inviting stories from across the industry to be shared via the Heart of Hospitality website or on social media with the tag #heartofhospitality

O’Rourke added: “Think of your last holiday, the special birthday meal with friends, or the business trip where the deal finally closed. Every day, around the world, people come to hospitality venues to celebrate, to dream, to escape, to work, to play, to spend time with loved ones. What an industry to be a part of; to be the person responsible for these precious moments and the memories that follow.

“This is why we have launched Heart of Hospitality, to remind the world that hospitality has heart and that it is one of the most valuable and cherished sectors in the world. In hospitality, no two days, two people or two moments are the same, it is all unique, personal, and about people and that’s why it’s so special.

“Accor is a global leader in hospitality and we are proud to lead on this sector spotlight and celebrate the lives and stories of hospitality workers across the industry.”