The Romanian Hotel and Restaurant Employers’ Association (HORA) Appoints New President

The most important leaders in the hospitality industry gathered in Bucharest, elected a new president, and discussed current challenges while expecting legislative predictability from the state.

Radu Savopol, co-founder of the Romanian coffee shop chain 5 to go, is the new president of the Romanian Hotel and Restaurant Employers’ Association (HORA).

The entrepreneur took over the mandate from the owner of the Loft club, Ion Biriș, who was elected president of HORA in 2021.

“It has been almost a year since the VAT was modified for certain segments and since the announcement of fiscal changes that still do not have a final and clear form. In the context of an ambiguous and incoherent fiscal climate, it is impossible to keep businesses open or make them profitable. HORA aims to find a viable solution for this entire ecosystem—authorities, entrepreneurs, customers—through constant and open dialogue with all political decision-makers, through analyses and impact studies that provide a clear picture of the industry and the impact that measures on paper have in real life for businesses and the people involved, employers and employees,” stated Radu Savopol.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new president of HORA?

Radu Savopol, the co-founder of the 5 to go coffee chain, has been elected as the new president of the association.

What are the main concerns of the hospitality industry in Romania?

The industry is currently facing fiscal ambiguity, lack of legislative predictability, and challenges regarding profitability due to recent VAT changes.

Who did Radu Savopol succeed in this position?

Radu Savopol took over the mandate from Ion Biriș, the owner of Loft club, who had served as president since 2021.