Discover the top 5 trends transforming the food and beverage industry, from plant-based foods and zero-waste practices to AI integration and ghost kitchens. Learn how BEBS trains leaders in sustainable and tech-driven hospitality and supply chain management. 

The food and beverage industry is constantly evolving, shaped by consumer preferences, technology, and global sustainability concerns. Today, environmental awareness, social responsibility, and digital innovation are driving major changes in restaurants, supermarkets, and supply chains worldwide. Chefs are becoming sustainability advocates, AI is revolutionizing operations, and plant-based alternatives are filling grocery shelves everywhere. 

For aspiring professionals in Tourism and Hospitality or Supply Chain & Logistics, understanding these trends is essential for leading innovation and implementing sustainable practices in food-related businesses. 

1. The Rise of Ghost Kitchens

Ghost kitchens, or dark kitchens, are one of the fastest-growing trends, accelerated by the pandemic. These kitchens focus exclusively on delivery, reducing front-of-house costs and allowing entrepreneurs to invest in marketing and technology. 

According to Euromonitor, ghost kitchens could generate a $1 trillion global market by 2030. Platforms like Deliveroo UK have launched “Editions Kitchens,” where partners can cook in fully equipped kitchens exclusively for the platform, combining efficiency with profitability. 

For supply chain professionals, ghost kitchens present new opportunities in logistics, inventory management, and last-mile delivery optimization. 

2. Plant-Based Food

The demand for vegetarian and vegan alternatives continues to grow, with the global meat substitute market projected to reach $35.5 billion by 2027. Brands like Beyond Meat, Moku Foods, Tofurky, and Barcelona-based Heura are redefining consumer expectations. 

Universities in Berlin now serve 68% vegan menus, reflecting younger generations’ concern for sustainability and animal welfare. This trend impacts food production, sourcing, and supply chain strategies, critical areas in BEBS’s MBA in Supply Chain & Logistics and Tourism & Hospitality programs. 

3. Responsible and Sustainable Restaurants

Chefs are leading the sustainability movement in gastronomy. Rene Redzepi’s Noma promotes the New Nordic principles: locality, sustainability, and respect for nature, while Massimo Bottura’s Food for Souls fights food waste and supports vulnerable communities. 

Restaurants and hospitality businesses are now adopting zero-waste operations, traceable ingredients, and ethical sourcing, aligning with broader trends in responsible tourism and supply chain sustainability. BEBS’s programs emphasize sustainable management practices, preparing future leaders to implement these models worldwide. 

4. Zero-Waste and Eco-Friendly Practices

Zero-waste and zero-plastic initiatives are transforming the industry. Restaurants like Rhodora in Brooklyn use only recyclable, upcycled, or compostable materials, while apps like Too Good To Go reduce food waste by connecting surplus products with consumers. 

Companies like Pakito Angola help hotels and restaurants reduce plastic usage, demonstrating how environmental sustainability creates value for both business and community. Students in Tourism & Hospitality programs at BEBS learn how to integrate eco-friendly practices into operations and supply chains. 

5. Artificial Intelligence in Food and Beverage

AI is revolutionizing production, marketing, and delivery. Examples include: 

• Domino’s Pizza, using AI to ensure hygiene and food quality. 

• McDonald’s, deploying smart digital menus that adjust offerings based on weather, time, and customer behavior. 

AI also optimizes inventory management, waste reduction, and energy efficiency, key components of sustainable operations. BEBS’s Supply Chain & Logistics MBA prepares students to leverage AI for smarter, greener, and more profitable food operations. 

Looking Ahead: Innovation, Sustainability, and Technology 

The future of food and beverage lies at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and consumer demand. From plant-based innovations and zero-waste initiatives to AI-driven operations and ghost kitchens, businesses must adapt quickly to thrive. 

For future leaders, BEBS Barcelona Executive Business School offers specialized modules in Tourism & Hospitality and Supply Chain & Logistics, focusing on: 

• Sustainable operations and ethical sourcing 

• AI integration for logistics and service optimization 

• Innovation management in food, beverage, and hospitality 

By understanding and applying these trends, graduates are prepared to lead global businesses in a sustainable, tech-driven, and socially responsible way. 

Are you a student looking to boost your career and personal growth? Extracurricular activities are more than hobbies—they can develop valuable skills, expand your network, and make your CV stand out. Whether it’s volunteering abroad, joining a student association, or running a creative project, these experiences can help you shine in the professional world.

What Are Extracurricular Activities?

Extracurricular activities are any activities outside formal education or work that help you gain new skills, experiences, and personal insights. Examples include:

• Student clubs (chess, debate, robotics)
• Creative hobbies (photography, video-making, music)
• Volunteering or activism
• Study abroad experiences

These activities develop soft skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication, as well as technical skills that are highly valued by employers globally.

Benefits of Extracurricular Activities for Students

Participating in extracurricular activities offers career and personal advantages:

• Develop transferable skills: Leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management
• Explore career interests: Try new experiences that may shape your professional path
• Expand your network: Meet like-minded peers, mentors, and industry professionals
• Enhance employability: Stand out to recruiters with experiences beyond grades

Students who actively engage in extracurricular activities gain confidence, independence, and adaptability—essential traits in today’s competitive job market.

How to Choose the Right Extracurricular Activities

With countless options, the key is to follow your interests and passions, not just what looks impressive on a CV.

• Identify skills you want to develop or experiences you want to try
• Experiment with different activities—there’s no harm in switching if it’s not your fit
• Maintain a balance between academics, social life, and extracurriculars
• Prioritize activities that provide both personal enjoyment and professional growth

Example: If you love photography, join a photography club or start a social media project to showcase your work and creativity.

Where to Include Extracurricular Activities on Your CV

Extracurricular activities are particularly valuable for students with limited work experience. Here’s how to highlight them effectively:

• Create a dedicated section: Label it “Extracurricular Activities,” “Leadership & Involvement,” or “Projects.”
• Highlight transferable skills: Communication, teamwork, leadership, creativity, project management
• Show achievements: Awards, exhibitions, competitions, or successful projects
• Include relevant links: Blogs, social media channels, or portfolios to showcase your work

Example: Applying for a marketing role? Highlight your social media campaigns, photography, or content creation experience.

Extracurricular Activities Employers Love

Employers value skills and initiative more than the activity itself. Here are activities that make a difference:

1. Study Abroad

Studying in a foreign country develops cultural awareness, adaptability, and language skills. Employers value candidates who can thrive in international environments.

2. Volunteering & Activism

Organizations increasingly look for candidates committed to social impact and sustainability. Volunteering demonstrates initiative, empathy, and leadership.

3. Student Associations & Clubs

Joining clubs or associations strengthens teamwork, organization, and leadership skills. Taking on leadership roles shows responsibility and initiative.

Why Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Matters

Corporate Social Responsibility has never been more relevant. Companies accused of greenwashing risk not only public backlash but also revenue decline. Younger generations—Millennials and Gen Z—demand businesses contribute to a sustainable future while being ethical and transparent.

According to a McKinsey survey, 70% of respondents try to purchase products from ethical companies, while 65% check the origins and sustainability of what they buy. This trend impacts organizations by:

• Increasing sales by meeting ethical consumer demands.
• Attracting, motivating, and retaining talent interested in working for businesses with a real social impact.
• Reducing operational costs through sustainable strategies, such as IoT deployment in Barcelona, which saved €49 million in water costs.

What Is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)?

CSR is not new. The term was coined in 1953 by economist Howard Bowen. Today, UNIDO defines CSR as:

“A management concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and interactions with their stakeholders.”

CSR initiatives focus on generating positive societal and environmental impact while increasing profitability, typically across three areas:

1. Philanthropy and Volunteering

Philanthropic CSR includes donating money to empower disadvantaged communities, e.g., the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Organization has donated $400 million globally since 2010.

Volunteering programs, like EY Connect Day, enable employees to contribute time, teach entrepreneurial skills, and promote sustainability. Benefits include:

• Empowered communities
• Engaged and motivated employees
• Enhanced corporate reputation

2. Ethical Labor Practices

Modern CSR goes beyond occasional philanthropy. Companies are expected to foster safe, diverse, and inclusive workplaces, with transparent reporting on diversity and inclusion initiatives. Leading companies like Slack and Microsoft publish workforce diversity reports, which:

• Hold companies accountable
• Drive innovation (companies with high diversity report 19% higher innovation revenue)
• Create new roles, e.g., workplace diversity experts (64% growth in 2020)

3. Environmental Responsibility

Fighting climate change is a top concern. According to a UN Development Program survey, two-thirds of people see climate change as a global emergency, especially younger generations.

Companies such as IBM, Hootsuite, and Benetton have integrated environmental responsibility into their core values. Sustainability is now central to consumer and employee trust.

When CSR Goes Bad: Greenwashing

Greenwashing occurs when companies misrepresent their sustainability efforts, prioritizing image over real impact. Examples include:

• Shell (2008): labeled a refinery as “sustainable”
• BMW (2017): claimed “zero emissions” in ads
• Ryanair (2020): used outdated environmental claims
• Walmart (2017): paid $1 million to settle misleading green claims

Short-term marketing gains can lead to long-term backlash and loss of credibility.

Beyond Greenwashing: Pinkwashing and Ethical Misrepresentation

Companies may also exaggerate inclusivity or social initiatives (pinkwashing), e.g., Pepsi’s controversial ad using the Black Lives Matter movement. Authenticity and measurable results are critical.

Tips to Implement CSR Successfully

• Be Honest – Communicate transparently and avoid exaggeration.
• Measure Your Impact – Track social and environmental results, and report publicly to build trust.
• Learn from Others – Adopt best practices from leading CSR-focused companies like Patagonia, which combines transparency, sustainability, and profitability.

Patagonia’s approach:

• Publishes detailed supply chain and sustainability reports
• Participates in certifications: Fair Trade, Fair Labor Association, Regenerative Organic Certified™
• Aligns business success with environmental and social impact, generating over $1B in annual sales

How BEBS Prepares Future Ethical Leaders

At Barcelona Executive Business School (BEBS), our MBA programs in Supply Chain & Logistics and Tourism & Hospitality have been updated with AI and sustainability modules to train the next generation of ethical business leaders. Students learn to:

• Integrate CSR and sustainability into business strategy
• Apply AI for sustainable supply chain and tourism solutions
• Balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility

By combining real-world business skills with social impact knowledge, BEBS graduates are prepared to lead ethical organizations that avoid greenwashing and make tangible societal contributions.

Towards a Sustainable Future

The key takeaway from When Corporate Social Responsibility Goes Bad: Greenwashing is clear: companies must act authentically. Consumers and employees can demand transparency, measurable impact, and long-term sustainability.

Learn more about business with social impact in our upcoming e-book: What is Social Responsibility in Business and Why You Should Care About It.

We live in a culture in which overwork is worn as a badge of honor. We have all heard the stories of the billionaires who have reached their golden status thanks to sleep deprivation. Think about Elon Musk, who, in a now-famous interview in 2018, declared to work 20 hours per day.

However, not all successful people think the same. Jack Dorsey, Twitter and Square CEO, has warned startup founders on the risks of working nonstop. Additionally, research shows that you should care more about your well-being. It will reduce the risk of burnout and improve your health. It might seem easier said than done, but we have collected 12 work-life balance tips for living a healthy life.

Main obstacles to work-life balance

We have been told over and over again that professional success is equal to being a workaholic. Unfortunately, the phenomenon is on the rise. New studies show that employees are working an average of 9.2 hours of unpaid overtime per week– 1.9 more hours more than a year ago.

This can be explained by looking at two main factors: the pandemic and the hustle culture. Since the beginning of the pandemic, millions of people around the world have lost their job. As a consequence, many employees have overworked out of fear of losing their source of income. Furthermore, COVID-19 has accelerated the rapid digitization of the workplace. The line between our personal and professional life has blurred. After all, who does really feel free to ignore work e-mails, even if it is Friday night?

On top of this, when we think of a main obstacle to achieving work-life balance, we should take a closer look at hustle culture. The internet is filled with articles on how to monetize your hobbies or enhance your personal brand. The message behind this is that we should be productive all the time. But what is the true cost of this?

Why you should care about work-life balance

Burnout is on the rise. According to a survey by Indeed, 52% of respondents are experiencing burnout in 2021. A 9% increase from pre-Covid-19 times. One of the main causes is that, especially during the pandemic, employees have lacked work-life balance.

Furthermore, new research shows that overwork is literally killing us, with three-quarters of a million people dying each year of long working hours. However, you should care about following some work-life balance tips also for other reasons.

It might sound obvious, but having a fulfilling life outside the office will make you feel less stressed and generally happier. The World Happiness Report noted that work-life balance is one of the strongest predictors of happiness.

4 work-life balance tips to follow at work

A good work-life balance strategy starts from the office. It’s time to learn to set boundaries with others and yourself.

1. Stop being a perfectionist

Let go of perfectionism and embrace being a human being. Work at the best of your capabilities, but accept that from time to time, you will make mistakes. Or you might have a day or two in which you are not going to be super productive.

2. Set realistic goals 

You won’t be able to achieve a work-life balance until you start setting realistic goals in your day-to-day in the office. Understand how much time you need to perform a task and based on that, define your workload and deadlines.

3. Enhance your communication

To help you achieve the previous point, you might need to enhance your communication skills. If you realize you can’t respect a certain deadline, ask for help or an extension. At the same time, if you feel on the brink of burnout, talk with the HR department or your boss. They might be ready to help you.

4. Take breaks

Yes, taking breaks is fundamental for your well-being and your performance. Research has shown that taking breaks can boost your productivity. While different studies have different opinions on when you should take a break, it might be useful to do it after 60 or 90 minutes. However, if you notice that you can’t stay focused for that long, take a short break every time you feel your mind needs a moment to recharge.

4 work-life balance tips to follow at home

You can enforce all the right work-life balance strategies in the office, but it is even more important to prioritize your wellbeing at home.

1. Take time for yourself

It’s OK to have free time. Use it to take care of yourself. If one day you feel blue and you just want to relax at home, do it. Or if you want to walk for three hours on the beach sipping a mojito, go for it!

     2. Don’t be too hard on yourself

Don’t look at work-life balance as another goal. Accept that sometimes you won’t comply with all the work-life balance strategies you have put in place. And that’s fine. Listen to yourself and give yourself a break.

     3. Find something that helps you disconnect

We all have one thing that helps our minds to disconnect. For some people it’s time with their loved ones, for others is a painting class. What is yours?

     4. Don’t answer e-mails and calls from work

Unless it is very urgent, do not answer e-mails and calls after your working hours. Try to establish boundaries between your professional and personal life and let people know your availability. We know that this last point doesn’t depend entirely on you, so we have four tips also for employers and HR departments.

4 work-life balance tips for employers and HR managers

Achieving work-life balance shouldn’t be solely the responsibility of individuals. Employers and HR departments should play a major role. If you are a student of our Master in Strategic HR & Change Management or MBA in Leadership and Talent Management, take notes. These last 4 work-life balance tips will be particularly useful during your career.

1. Give flexibility

Since the beginning of the pandemic, flexible work has become more common. It can be in the form of a flexible schedule or the possibility of working remotely. It is a win-win solution as employees can achieve a better work-life balance while employers can increase productivity.

2. Set an example

Leaders should be the firsts to put into practice all the work-life balance tips mentioned in this article. If managers and directors are often on the brink of burnout, who is going to do differently? It might seem like mission impossible, but it’s all about learning to prioritize and delegating tasks.

3. Check with your employees their well-being

From time to time, employers and HR departments should check the well-being of their employees. This can be done through anonymous surveys or regular one-to-one meetings. It is crucial to choose the modality better suited to the needs of employees. The goal should be to create a safe space for workers to express how they really feel, not stressing them even more.

4. Put in place clear work-life balance strategies and policies

Companies should implement clear policies aiming at fostering work-life balance. For example, Netflix offers 52 weeks of paid parental leave to both mothers and fathers. Moreover, new parents can choose to come back on a part-time basis if they desire, or come back, and leave again within this one year while having their full salaries and benefits paid.

The pandemic has given us all a moment to think about which kind of world we envision for our future. During that moment of reflection, one word has become relevant for every single industry: sustainability. But for the tourism and hospitality sector, this word is not new. 

Since the 1990s, the UN World Tourism Organization has used World Tourism Day to discuss tourism’s social, political, economic, and environmental impacts. Later, the UNWTO has tried to establish clear guidance and definition to foster sustainable tourism, defined as “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”. 

With the climate crisis already changing the world as we know it, one part of sustainable tourism has gained increasing relevance: the impact we have on our planet. Some people will say that sustainable tourism, and especially eco-tourism, is an oxymoron, but in The ultimate guide to eco-travel in 2022, we will show you that it is possible. Our guide focuses on understanding what each actor can do to create a travel industry with a limited impact on the environment. We have analyzed the role played by hotels, tour operators, the aviation industry, and travelers. Because eco-travel is a collective effort. 

The ultimate guide to eco-travel in 2022   

What can hotels do? 

According to the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, the hotel industry needs to cut carbon emissions by 66% per room by 2030. From water consumption to using renewable energy, the sky is the limit to what the hotel industry can do to reduce its carbon footprint. At Discovery Rottnest Island, named by Forbes and National Geographic as one of the world’s best new green hotels, visitors can sleep in luxury eco-tents. At Qbic Amsterdam, they follow 20 points to ensure an eco-travel experience, including sustainability training for employees, avoiding single packaged items, and serving fair-trade products.   

Moreover, hotels can become effective changemakers by joining certifications. In this way, hotels will be obliged to comply with the highest verified standards when it comes to their impact on the environment. Furthermore, thanks to certifications, hotels can attract more visitors and increase their profits. According to a study, 70% of global travelers would be more likely to book an accommodation if they knew it was eco-friendly.  

With hundreds of certifications out there, the hotel industry needs to apply to the most prestigious ones, like Green Key or TripAdvisor Green Leaders. The former is an international eco-label awarded to the most sustainable facilities within the tourism industry. The program counts on the recognition of the UNWTO and United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). The latter is a program launched in 2013 by TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, in consultation with UNEP and other partners, including Rainforest Alliance. Hotels, B&Bs, and hotels can all apply for this certification. Once obtained, the TripAdvisor Green Leaders badge will appear on the hotel’s listing page. 

What can airports and airlines do? 

By now, we all know that flying is the worst way of traveling for our planet. The aviation industry is responsible for a daunting 5% of global warming. Or as Jocelyn Timperley bluntly wrote for the BBC: “Even a return flight from London to Berlin emits around 0.6 tons CO2e – three times the emissions saved from a year of recycling.”  

However, airlines everywhere in the world are making an effort to reduce their impact on the environment. This year, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines committed to achieving net-zero carbon emission by 2050. The idea is to invest in the production and deployment of sustainable aviation fuel. In Europe, KLM and AirFrance ranked again at the top of the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index 2020. In Australia, Qantas has several initiatives in place aiming at changing the aviation industry into an eco-friendlier one. 

Airports are also going in the direction of eco-travel. Ideally, they all want to become like Galápagos Ecological Airport. Built in 2012, the airport runs completely on solar and wind power and 80% of the infrastructure was made of recycled material. To make the airport even more sustainable, Galápagos Ecological Airport has its own desalination plant to provide fresh water to its travelers. 18.359 km away, another airport is transporting passengers to the future of eco-travel. Changi Airport, in Singapore, has a green wall to improve the airport’s air quality, water-efficient fittings, and roof-mounted solar panels.  

Singapore and the Galapagos provide some of the best examples of green airports, but it is not always feasible to go entirely green, especially if an airport has already been built. What is possible is to take small actions with a great impact. In 2020, airports in Dubai banned the use of single plastic. 

What can tour operators do? 

According to the 2018 Tourism Survey by Trekksoft, ecotours are the most popular tours offered nowadays. This reflects the growing demand for eco-travels and it also shows that tour operators can play a pedagogical role in protecting the environment. 

For example, Intrepid travels offers tours all over the globe without renouncing its commitment to sustainability. Since 2010, this tour operator has been a carbon-neutral business. Furthermore, Intrepid travels strongly encourages travelers to adopt eco-travel habits like eating locally produced food or refilling their water bottles. 

Natural Habitat Adventures went a step further. Since 2003, it has partnered with WWF, the world’s leading environmental organization, to promote conservation travel that they define as “sustainable travel that supports the protection of nature, wildlife and local communities”. In 2019, they also organized the World’s First Zero Waste Adventure. The tour was a complete success and it obtained wide press coverage in some of the most popular travel magazines as Condé Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet. 

What can you do? 

As we have said at the beginning of The ultimate guide to eco-travel in 2022, sustainability requires a collective effort. So far, we have seen what the travel industry can do to foster a more sustainable way of traveling. The question now is what can you do? And even more importantly are you ready to embrace a bit of discomfort to save the planet? 

According to a study by The Vacationer, the answer is no. 48% of respondents said they would opt for an eco-travel only if it did not inconvenience them. However, it might be because it is a common perception that traveling sustainably is extremely complicated. You can easily debunk this myth by conducting quick research on the internet. Lonely Planet, the most famous travel guide, has published an expert’s guide to zero-waste travel. Grow Ensemble has analyzed 21 tips to plan your sustainable trip and the list could continue. 

At the end of the day, all tips can be boiled down to one thing: learn about your impact on the planet. By adopting this approach, it will be automatic for you to choose a means of transport with a minimal carbon footprint, as in the case of bus or train. If you really can’t do that, you might want to travel with airlines committed to protecting the planet. We are also sure that next time you plan your trip you will opt for an accommodation with sustainability at the core of how they work.  

On a final note, you can also lobby the company you are working for to organize business eco-travels. Alternatively, you can change the industry from within. You can opt for a career in the tourism and hospitality industry and make sustainability the priority on how you conduct your business. 

Blockchain technology has emerged as one of the major trends in logistics and supply chain management. Every day, more companies adopt blockchain solutions to increase efficiency, transparency, and security in their operations. In this article, we’ll explain how blockchain can improve logistics, from tracking products in real time to automating payments and enhancing supply chain transparency.

What is Blockchain?

Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology created in 2008 by the pseudonymous Satoshi Nakamoto for Bitcoin. Beyond cryptocurrency, blockchain allows secure, immutable, and decentralized data sharing. Each transaction is a “block” linked to the previous one, forming a chain that is traceable and tamper-proof.

Key characteristics that make blockchain useful for logistics:

• Decentralized: All participants share the same data, reducing reliance on intermediaries and lowering costs.
• Immutable: Once recorded, information cannot be altered, ensuring accuracy of product tracking and financial transactions.
• Automatic: Smart contracts automate actions such as payments or inventory updates.

How Blockchain Improves Logistics

1. Smart Contracts for Process Automation

Smart contracts are self-executing programs hosted on the blockchain. They automate logistics processes such as payments, compliance, and approvals without the need for intermediaries.

Example: Walmart implemented a blockchain-based food traceability system in collaboration with IBM. This system reduced the time to trace a product’s origin from 7 days to 2.2 seconds, helping prevent food safety issues and increasing supply chain efficiency.

2. Real-Time Tracking of Products

Blockchain enables real-time tracking of shipments across the supply chain. By integrating blockchain with IoT devices or tracking sensors, all participants have updated information on the location and status of goods.

Example: Maersk’s TradeLens platform consolidates data from carriers, ports, and suppliers to create a single source of truth for shipments. As of 2021, TradeLens tracked 2.3 billion events for 43.6 million containers worldwide, improving efficiency and reducing costs.

3. Automated Payments

Blockchain combined with smart contracts allows instant payments upon delivery or fulfillment of conditions. This reduces delays in transactions, lowers administrative costs, and increases trust among supply chain partners.

Example: AXA’s Fizzy platform automated flight delay insurance payments, instantly transferring funds to customers’ wallets using blockchain smart contracts. Although the project ended in 2019, it demonstrated blockchain’s potential for logistics finance automation.

4. Transparent Accountancy and Compliance

Blockchain provides a comprehensive and immutable record of all transactions, enabling companies to enhance transparency and regulatory compliance.

Example: The Blockchain Tuna Project, led by the World Wildlife Fund, tracks tuna from catch to consumer using blockchain and RFID technology. This ensures legality, traceability, and sustainability of seafood supply chains.

5. Cross-Industry Applications

Blockchain’s features make it applicable beyond logistics:

• Finance: Secure cross-border payments
• Human Resources: Transparent credential verification
• Tourism: Verified booking and loyalty programs
• Legal and Compliance: Immutable contract execution

Become a Blockchain-Savvy Logistics Professional

Mastering blockchain in logistics opens doors to roles like Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Analyst, or Operations Director. At BEBS, our programs such as the Master in Integrated Logistics and Supply Chain or Master in Operations Management and Logistics prepare professionals to leverage blockchain and other emerging technologies to improve supply chain efficiency.

Staying ahead in your career requires keeping up with the latest business trends. To help you prepare for the future, we’ve selected five key trends for 2025, focusing on Business Innovation, Human Resources, Logistics, Project Management, and Tourism & Hospitality. These trends are shaping the global business landscape and will give you an edge in your professional development.

1. Human Resources: Prioritizing Employee Mental Health

The focus on employee mental health continues to grow as companies face an evolving work culture. The lessons from The Great Resignation and the pandemic have highlighted that talent retention goes beyond salary and benefits.

In 2025, HR departments will focus on:

• Creating safe and supportive work environments
• Listening to employee feedback to resolve key issues
• Promoting diversity and representation
• Preventing burnout through proactive mental health programs

Companies that prioritize mental health are more likely to retain top talent and increase employee engagement, making mental wellness a critical competitive advantage.

2. Logistics & Supply Chain: Leveraging Big Data

Supply chains are becoming increasingly complex, and Big Data is transforming how logistics is managed. Companies need real-time insights to forecast demand, optimize routes, and manage inventory efficiently.

Big Data in logistics allows:

• Automation of inventory management
• Improved reliability and delivery performance
• Cost reduction and margin optimization

With growing disruptions in global trade and transportation, Big Data professionals are in high demand, making this a top trend in logistics for 2025.

3. Project Management: Integrating Remote & Hybrid Work

Remote and hybrid work is now a permanent feature of the modern workplace. By 2025, project managers must design strategies that accommodate flexible work arrangements while maintaining productivity.

Key considerations include:

• Defining communication protocols for remote and on-site teams
• Using collaboration tools effectively
• Setting clear objectives and responsibilities for all team members

Project managers who adapt to these new work styles will increase team performance and stay ahead in a competitive business environment.

4. Tourism & Hospitality: Bleisure Travel & Hotel Workspaces

The rise of bleisure travel combining business and leisure continues to reshape the tourism and hospitality sector. Remote workers and flexible schedules are driving demand for hotels with work-friendly spaces.

In 2025, hospitality professionals should focus on:

• Creating dedicated workspaces in hotels
• Offering flexible booking options for longer stays
• Catering to the needs of digital nomads and remote workers

This trend represents a huge opportunity to innovate services and attract a new type of international client.

5. Business Innovation: The Metaverse

The Metaverse is emerging as a new frontier for business innovation. By 2025, companies are exploring ways to create virtual experiences, interact with global audiences, and generate revenue in immersive digital worlds.

Opportunities in the Metaverse include:

• Virtual offices and remote collaboration environments
• NFT-based art, products, and crypto-enabled commerce
• Marketing and brand engagement through virtual experiences

The Metaverse is rapidly transforming how businesses interact with consumers, and professionals who understand this digital ecosystem will have a strategic advantage.

Stay Ahead in 2025

These five trends highlight the importance of adapting, learning, and innovating in today’s business world. Whether your focus is HR, logistics, project management, tourism, or innovation, staying informed will help you grow your career and seize new opportunities.

4 Key Ideas to Foster Innovation in the Workplace

Innovation is the engine of business growth. But it doesn’t appear by itself—you need action, strategy, and a culture that encourages creativity. According to PwC, 60% of companies identify their own employees as the primary source of innovation, ahead of technology partners, customer feedback, or competitor analysis.

Creating an innovative workplace isn’t easy, but it’s essential. Research shows that innovation drives higher revenue, better customer satisfaction, and faster time-to-market for new products. Here are four practical ideas to foster innovation in your company.

1. Turn Weak Points into Opportunities

The first step toward innovation is identifying areas for improvement. Weak points can become the starting point for creative solutions.

For example, Amazon started as an online bookstore in 1994. When the team realized that limiting sales to books was a weakness, they expanded into a full e-commerce platform. Today, Amazon is one of the biggest brands in the world.

To foster innovation:

• Align innovation initiatives with business objectives
• Encourage employees to constantly look for better solutions
• Create a culture where improvement is part of daily work

This approach builds a positive innovation loop, where the company grows while teams develop creative problem-solving skills.

2. Keep Employees Motivated and Engaged

Innovation thrives when employees are invested in their work. Motivated teams naturally look for new ways to achieve results.

HR and managers should:

• Prevent burnout through workload balance and recognition
• Offer monetary incentives (bonuses, competitive salaries)
• Provide non-monetary rewards (flexible hours, appreciation, career development)

When employees feel valued, they are more likely to contribute innovative ideas that improve processes, products, and services.

3. Be Open to All Ideas

Sometimes, the best ideas come from unexpected sources. Even suggestions that initially seem “bad” can spark innovation.

To implement this:

• Listen actively to ideas from all employees, including junior staff
• Create channels for idea submission, like AT&T’s Innovation Pipeline, which received over 50,000 employee ideas in 10 years
• Encourage a culture where everyone feels their input matters

When employees see their ideas considered—even if not immediately implemented—they are more engaged and creative, fueling continuous innovation.

We had the opportunity to interview Professor Jordi Vilanova Sanfeliu, coordinator of the MBA in International e-Supply Chain Management at BEBS, about the role of new technologies in logistics and supply chain innovation. In a globalized and constantly evolving market, companies must adapt their supply chains continuously to remain competitive. Professor Vilanova shares insights on innovation in supply chain management, the challenges of resistance to change, and the importance of continuous learning in professional development.

Innovation in the Supply Chain: Opportunity and Obligation

According to Professor Vilanova, adopting new technologies in supply chain management is both an opportunity and a necessity. For companies competing globally, digital transformation in logistics is no longer optional—it’s essential to maintain competitiveness. Local businesses may have more flexibility, but the benefits of supply chain innovation are clear for all.

“It’s a good obligation because it can only give us benefits,” says Professor Vilanova.

Continuous Adaptation: Staying Competitive in a Changing Market

Professor Vilanova emphasizes the need to continuously reinvent and redesign supply chains. Companies must stay alert to market changes, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations. Adapting tools, procedures, and strategies is key to maintaining a competitive edge in logistics and global supply chains.

Overcoming Resistance to Change in Supply Chains

Change is rarely easy. Even when processes are producing expected results, there is often resistance to change. Professor Vilanova highlights the importance of proper evaluation before implementing changes and maintaining a culture of continuous improvement.

“Resistance to change is natural, but it should never stop us from improving our supply chains.”

Continuous Learning Across Ages

Learning in the supply chain sector is lifelong. While digital natives may adapt faster to innovative logistics technologies, professionals of all ages benefit from continuous professional development. Adaptability, cultural awareness, and openness to new methodologies in supply chain management are crucial skills for today’s professionals.

Who Promotes Change in Companies?

Change can come from both external and internal drivers:

• External drivers: market forces, competitor strategies, and technological breakthroughs.
• Internal drivers: leadership, proactive teams, and forward-thinking management.

Professor Vilanova stresses that anticipation in logistics is critical. Companies that implement changes first often gain a significant competitive advantage.

The Value of Multigenerational and Diverse Teams

Mixing employees of different ages, cultures, and backgrounds enhances innovation and knowledge sharing. Diverse teams encourage creativity and allow everyone to learn continuously, whether in higher education programs or professional environments.

Immersive Technologies and Remote Learning in Supply Chain Education

The rise of immersive technologies, online learning, and remote work tools has transformed how students and professionals interact. Professor Vilanova notes that remote collaboration allows global talent to connect, while digital platforms in logistics education enhance learning experiences and prepare students for a technologically advanced workplace.

“Thanks to technology, we can now do things that were previously impossible. Remote working and immersive tools open new opportunities worldwide.”