On October 16, 2025, the IV Open Stakeholder Conference of Grupo Viajes El Corte Inglés was held in Madrid, Spain, under a hybrid format that combined in-person attendance and live streaming. The event brought together representatives from the travel, tourism, and corporate sectors to discuss sustainability strategies, social impact, and responsible business practices across the value chain.
Representing the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), Estefanía del Azar, GSTC’s Communications Manager, participated in the panel discussion “ESG Qualification of the Value Chain” moderated by Lidia Neira Muñoz-Quirós, from Corporate Communications, Grupo Viajes El Corte Inglés. The session also featured Sergio Martínez, Director of Hotel Contracting for Business Travel & MICE, Grupo Viajes El Corte Inglés, and Justa Calderón, Product Director for Tour Operations at Grupo Viajes El Corte Inglés.
During the discussion, Estefanía highlighted GSTC’s global mission, the importance of the GSTC Standards and the value of GSTC Certification*.
“It was inspiring to see many Spanish industry leaders working together toward a more responsible future for travel, and to share insights on the importance of the GSTC Standards as a global reference for advancing sustainability across the tourism value chain.” Said Mrs. Del Azar.
The conference also included insightful sessions on corporate travel and sustainability, the tourism sector’s social impact, and the El Corte Inglés 2025–2030 Sustainability Master Plan, presented by Brezo Tejerina, Head of Sustainability of Grupo El Corte Inglés.
Industry leaders from organizations such as Iberia, Reale Seguros, RENFE Operadora, MSC Cruises, and Huttopia contributed to a rich dialogue on how to advance sustainable transformation within the tourism ecosystem.
*Note: The term “GSTC Certification” is a shorthand for “Certified by a Certification Body that is GSTC-accredited.”
