More than 100 INA and Energopetrol gas stations in Bosnia and Herzegovina are becoming part of a mission to promote tourism in our country through a joint initiative by the companies Holdina d.o.o and Energopetrol d.d, in collaboration with the USAID’s Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Turizam).
Over 1000 employees will be educated through a course developed on the online platform Turizam Academy (https://academy.turizambih.ba/) and customized to the internal platform of Holdina/Energopetrol. This education will focus on effective customer communication, with a special emphasis on tourists as the target audience. In addition to specialized courses within the Turizam Academy, the USAID Turizam will conduct a promotional campaign to showcase the most attractive tourist destinations, services, and experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina on their website.
During the official presentation of the collaboration with the USAID Turizam project, Marijana Rajić, the Executive Director of Retail and a member of the Management Board of Holdina and Energopetrol, stated: “We are pleased to continue our collaboration with the USAID Turizam project through the initiative to promote the tourism potential of our country. Holdina and Energopetrol are committed to constant improvement of services, shopping experiences, and stays at INA and Energopetrol gas stations, through continuous enhancement of offerings and education of customer service, aiming to improve an overal experience of people on the move, our consumers. The additional value of this initiative for us is undoubtedly the social responsibility of companies like ours, utilizing their capacities to promote the tourism potential and thus contribute to the stimulation of sustainable development and economic growth in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
Photo Credit: Jasmin Agović
The tourism sector of Bosnia and Herzegovina is experiencing record numbers of visitors this season, especially from neighboring countries, many of whom choose to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina with their own vehicles. Gas stations can play a crucial role in providing relevant information and motivating tourists to extend their stays and explore lesser-known locations, while enjoying authentic tourist experiences and attractions.
Photo Credit: Jasmin Agović
Karl Wurster, the Director of the Economic Development Office USAID/BiH, also spoke about the importance of each link in the tourism value chain and the shared responsibility for the role of local tourism ambassadors in Bosnia and Herzegovina.,He emphasized: “Today marks a significant milestone as we proudly announce our partnership with Holdina/Energopetrol Ltd. to drive a new era of tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic growth in the region. By empowering gas station personnel as tourism ambassadors, we are unlocking the untapped potential of these locations to provide valuable services and information to travelers. Through hospitality training and access to tourist attractions’ knowledge, we aim to elevate the overall visitor experience, making their journeys more enriching and memorable. USAID is thrilled to work hand in hand with Holdina/Energopetrol Ltd. to promote tourism beyond traditional sectors and showcase how businesses can play a pivotal role in supporting the industry. We believe this innovative approach will have a positive ripple effect, strengthening the entire tourism ecosystem. Together, we embark on a transformative journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
Photo Credit: Jasmin Agović
About the USAID Turizam Project and Turizam Academy:
With the goal of positioning Bosnia and Herzegovina as a competitive destination in the global market, USAID Turizam focuses on enhancing human capital in the tourism sector, developing innovative tourism products, improving access to finance for tourism businesses, harmonizing policies and regulations, and transforming the destination brand and promotion. Through a comprehensive approach to sustainable tourism development, USAID Turizam contributes to economic growth and harmonious social relationships in Bosnia and Herzegovina. For more information about the USAID Turizam project, visit www.turizambih.ba.
The online platform Turizam Academy (https://academy.turizambih.ba/) is designed to develop human capital in the field of tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina in line with global standards and recommendations from international experts. The courses available on Turizam Academy are tailored for the needs of the public sector, hospitality, tourism marketing, investors, local entrepreneurs, and young individuals interested in a career in tourism. All courses are completely free.
About Holdina/Energopetrol:
Holdina d.o.o. Sarajevo and Energopetrol d.d Sarajevo are leading companies in the wholesale and retail sale of oil and oil derivatives in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The companies are members of the INA Group and are the exclusive importers and wholesale representatives for the sale of oil and oil derivatives from INA refineries in Croatia.
Holdina and Energopetrol jointly operate in the Bosnia and Herzegovina market as the largest network of gas stations in the country, with over 100 retail outlets. They offer their consumers high-quality Class Plus Expert fuels, consumer goods, and a specially designed gastronomic concept called Fresh Corner, which includes a selection of high-quality coffee, hot beverages, freshly prepared sandwiches, and other items for people on the go.
