Unlocking growth opportunities and advancing the hospitality sector in Serbia
Belgrade, November 13, 2024 – How can the hospitality sector (HoReCa) in Serbia navigate the challenges of a dynamic market, attract the right talent, and adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by external factors? These key issues were explored at the third edition of the HoReCa Coke Academy, marking the sixth educational session organized to date by Coca-Cola HBC Serbia, in support of its partners in the hospitality and retail sectors.
The recent Coke Academy, focused on the hospitality business, gathered over a hundred hotels, restaurants, and café owners and managers from across the country. Through interactive panel discussions, participants received practical insights on overcoming key challenges and optimizing their operations for greater efficiency and success.
“Supporting the HoReCa sector and the local economy is not just an investment in a sustainable future, but also reflects the core values of our company, which is committed to building long-term partnerships with its customers. This is why the Coke Academy holds such significance for all of us – it provides a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas with our HoReCa partners and offer ongoing support in their business planning. I firmly believe that by working together, we can overcome challenges and create meaningful value that delivers tangible results”, said Saša Marković, General Manager of Coca-Cola HBC Serbia.
During the workshops, participants had the opportunity to share insights into attracting, developing, and retaining top talent, as well as identifying key innovative trends in hospitality and effectively managing costs. A special focus was placed on practical solutions for improving financial management and increasing business volume.
“The central aim of the Coke Academy is to facilitate a constructive dialogue on strategies to optimize business performance. Through direct engagement with HoReCa establishments, we gain invaluable insights into the pressing challenges currently faced by the industry, including labor shortages, shifting transaction volumes, and the mounting pressures of rising procurement costs. This workshop is an opportunity to collaboratively explore actionable solutions, share the experiences and innovative ideas of our partners, and cultivate a cohesive network that empowers us to overcome challenges and remain at the forefront of the market”, emphasized Mirko Gutić, Sales Director at Coca-Cola HBC Serbia.
Participants highlighted that such events provide valuable insights for improving their operations and adapting to changing market dynamics.
“The greatest value of the academy lies in the shared dialogue and mutual support among peers. The topic of food-based management is particularly fascinating to me, and I would love to explore this aspect of the business further in future sessions”, said Filip Gračanin from Hotel “Crni Vrh,” Divčibare.
Darko Stefanović, owner of Garden Gastro Pub from Petrovac na Mlavi, emphasized that the training was extremely useful and provided an opportunity to hear new ideas and experiences from industry colleagues.
The Coke Academy is a long-term initiative by Coca-Cola HBC Serbia and Montenegro, designed to support the growth of the hospitality and retail sectors. Through a variety of educational formats, the program has already engaged approximately 400 customers, fostering development and collaboration across the industry.