Published 31. July 2023.
Valamar started the 2024 tourist season successfully and achieved a 16.1% increase in operating revenue during the first six months of this year. The growth is again fuelled by considerable investments in upgrading and repositioning the portfolio over the past decade, with the best results coming from premium hotels and camping resorts. All Valamar-operated destinations have performed exceptionally well, with Dubrovnik leading the way in terms of growth.
Valamar successfully completed all preparations for high season, filling all positions in hotels, resorts, and camping resorts, employing approximately 8,200 staff members. The company continued to invest heavily in employee payroll and rewards which increased nearly 20% compared to the same period in 2023. Moreover, Valamar has increased the base salary for more than 5,000 employees, with professional positions (such as chefs, waiters, and receptionists) earning between €1,400 and €2,000 this season.
Valamar’s major focus is the construction of Pical 5* premium resort in Poreč, the largest single investment in Croatian tourism, totaling €139 million over a two-year period. Hotel Pical 5* will operate year-round, employing 600 staff in professional positions and elevating the quality of tourism in Poreč, Istria, and Croatia.
Furthermore, Valamar completed €83 million worth of investments in the hospitality portfolio for this season. These include renovations of three hotels and resorts in prime locations in Rabac, Makarska, and Krk, which have been repositioned under the Sunny by Valamar brand, and launching the first phase of construction of the Valamar Collection resort in Suha Punta on Rab Island.
In 2024, Valamar remains committed to substantial investments in ESG projects and initiatives. Collaborating with WWF Adria, Valamar partnered with the Komiža Fishermen’s Cooperative to source sustainably caught Adriatic fish. This collaboration not only strengthened the Cooperative economically but also attracted new fishermen and opened new opportunities for sustainable development long-term.
Furthermore, Valamar introduced 33 energy-efficient camping homes at the Padova Premium Camping Resort 4* on Rab Island this season. Simultaneously, Valamar Amicor Green Resort on Hvar Island received a gold DGNB pre-certification for sustainable construction of villas - making it the first such resort in this part of Europe. The Green Building Council Croatia recognized Valamar with the Annual Green Building and Sustainable Environment Award.