Environmental strategies and organizational competitiveness in the hotel industry: The role of learning and innovation as determinants of environmental success. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fraj, Elena; Matute, Jorge; Melero, Iguácel
• Is Part Of: Tourism management. Volume 46(2015)
• Page Start: 30
• Page End: 42
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: Proactive environmental strategy -- Learning orientation -- Innovativeness -- Organizational performance -- Hotel industry; Tourism -- Periodicals; 338.4791
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tourman.2014.05.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-5177

Abstract

Abstract: This paper examines the links between proactive environmental strategies, organizational capabilities and competitiveness. A model is proposed and tested using a sample of 232 Spanish hotels. An orientation for learning and innovation are conceived not only as drivers for adopting pro-environmental policies, but also as determinants of competitiveness. Data are analyzed through the use of partial least squares. The findings confirm that a proactive environmental strategy and innovation favor organizational competitiveness. However, a learning orientation does not directly predict organizational competitiveness. The paper discusses both conceptual and practical implications for the development of successful hotel operations and management. Highlights: Learning oriented hotels are more likely to deploy a proactive environmental strategy. Innovative hotels are more proactive in their environmental strategies. Proactive environmental strategy positively affects organizational competitiveness. Innovative hotels perform better than non-innovative hotels. Learning orientation requires complementary capabilities to influence performance.