In today’s fast-paced world, workplace well-being has become a top priority, and Accor, the global hospitality leader, is embracing this change with open arms. As the world of work evolves, the company is redefining the traditional notions of workplace culture and well-being. By focusing on the holistic well-being of its employees, known as Heartists, Accor is setting new standards for what it means to thrive at work.
In its recent study, “The New Quality of Time,” Accor found that 73% of respondents want to slow down their pace of life. This growing desire for balance highlights the increasing demand for employers to prioritize well-being. As the modern workforce evolves, employees especially younger generations are placing a higher value on how their jobs impact their work-life balance and overall wellness. In fact, over 80% of millennials say they consider their well-being when evaluating job opportunities. This shift in expectations is prompting companies like Accor to take proactive steps toward fostering a healthy work environment.
Accor has long been a pioneer in promoting a positive workplace culture, but with the changing times, it has doubled down on its commitment to talent well-being. Through its revamped Employee Value Proposition (EVP), Accor is reshaping how it attracts and retains talent. Moving away from a process-driven approach, the company focuses on self-fulfillment and meaningful work. The “Enjoy & Feel Valued” pillar of Accor’s EVP is designed to ensure that its Heartists® feel supported, recognized, and appreciated in their daily work.
At Accor, this commitment to well-being is not just a corporate initiative but an integral part of the workplace experience. Locations across the globe have launched a range of creative initiatives to promote well-being. In Bali, Indonesia, the Raffles Bali team engages in activities like the Heartists® Futsal Club and wellness weekends, while Fairmont Singapore hosts a Global Wellness Week, offering health screenings, fitness classes, and massages. These efforts contribute to a positive atmosphere that reinforces Accor’s belief: when employees thrive, the business thrives.
One key area where Accor is making a significant impact is in promoting physical health through sports and exercise. In Latin America, Accor’s VivAH Well-Being Program supports its employees with health tips, physical activity challenges, and nutritional initiatives like the “Day of Fruit,” where employees receive free fruit. The program also includes a major annual event—the 21st edition of the soccer tournament, which brought together 750 participants from across seven countries. This vibrant approach to wellness has been instrumental in strengthening team spirit and improving overall health.
In Paris, the company offers gym access and healthy food options for its teams. The Le Rayon Bleu cycling race is another example of how Accor incorporates wellness into its culture. These initiatives are integral to fostering a work environment where employees can focus on both their physical and mental health.
Accor’s commitment to wellness reached a new milestone in 2024 when it became a Premium Partner of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This partnership allowed Accor to showcase its dedication to wellness on a global stage, using sports as a tool to foster both physical and mental well-being. The launch of the GET ACTIVE, HEARTISTS®! app encouraged over 1,600 employees to engage in physical challenges and routines, and special warm-up sessions led by elite athletes motivated teams to get moving. One of the highlights of this initiative was the participation of 180 Heartists® in the “Marathon Pour Tous”, an event organized by Paris 2024.
The energy generated by the Olympic Games is continuing to inspire wellness-focused initiatives across Accor’s global operations. In the UAE, the company introduced the ALLympics, a regional competition that brought together 20 hotel teams to compete in sports like basketball, volleyball, and badminton. This friendly competition strengthened team spirit, encouraged physical activity, and fostered a sense of community across the region.
Accor’s emphasis on well-being goes beyond just physical health. Mental well-being is just as crucial, and the company integrates strategies to address both aspects of health. With wellness as a core component of the Future of Work, Accor is adapting its workplace strategies to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. By offering programs that promote both physical and mental health, Accor ensures that its employees have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
The company’s holistic approach to talent well-being reflects the evolving landscape of the modern workplace. The younger generation of workers expects employers to provide support that goes beyond traditional benefits, with a strong focus on well-being, balance, and fulfillment. Accor’s commitment to these principles positions it as a leader in shaping the future of work in the hospitality industry.
As Accor continues to evolve, its focus on well-being will remain central to its Employee Value Proposition and overall workplace culture. By embracing wellness as a priority, Accor is setting an example for other companies in the hospitality industry and beyond. As the world of work continues to change, Accor’s forward-thinking approach to talent well-being will undoubtedly be a key driver in attracting and retaining top talent for years to come.