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Travel Leisure Co. Earns Dual Honors: Gallup “Exceptional Workplace” and Newsweek’s “Most Trustworthy Companies” List
In a season of corporate accolades that many firms are fighting to secure, Travel Leisure Co. has distinguished itself by earning two of the most coveted recognitions in the business world: a Gallup “Exceptional Workplace” award and a spot on Newsweek’s prestigious “Most Trustworthy Companies” list. The dual honor, announced on March 29, 2023, signals that the company’s internal culture and external reputation are both running at the highest possible level.
The Gallup “Exceptional Workplace” Designation
Gallup’s “Exceptional Workplace” title is not handed out lightly. The organization draws on data from the 2022 Gallup Employee Engagement Survey, which measures how employees feel about nearly 30 different aspects of their workplace—from professional development opportunities to the company’s sense of purpose. To earn the label, a company must meet one of three criteria:
- 100% of employees would recommend the company as a place to work to friends and family.
- The average employee engagement score is at least 9 on a 1–10 scale.
- The average engagement score is in the top 25% of all companies in the same industry.
Travel Leisure’s inclusion in this elite group indicates that every employee surveyed not only would recommend the company to a friend or family member but also that the organization ranks above the majority of its peers in employee engagement. The Gallup report underscores that Travel Leisure’s workplace culture is underpinned by an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), a robust training program for leaders, and a flexible work model that enables employees to balance career advancement with personal responsibilities.
Gallup’s methodology also highlights that Travel Leisure’s score in the “purpose” category—how employees feel the company’s mission matters—was among the highest in the survey. This focus on a mission-driven workplace is consistent with the company’s own statements, which emphasize a commitment to “inspiring a love for travel that connects people with the world in meaningful ways.”
Recognition as One of the Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek
While Gallup measures internal employee sentiment, Newsweek’s “Most Trustworthy Companies” list is an external audit of how corporate reputations fare in the eyes of customers, investors, and the public. The list was compiled using a comprehensive assessment of four key domains:
- Corporate Governance – The integrity of the board and executive leadership.
- Social Responsibility – Environmental stewardship, philanthropy, and community engagement.
- Financial Performance – Stability and growth metrics.
- Consumer Satisfaction – Reviews, net promoter scores, and brand perception.
Travel Leisure’s placement on the 2023 list signals that the company’s stakeholders see it as a transparent, ethical, and reliable partner. The Newsweek assessment drew on data from 6,000 respondents, including independent journalists, analysts, and industry experts. Travel Leisure’s ranking came with a commendation for its “responsible storytelling” in its travel journalism and a strong record of protecting user data in an age of increasing privacy concerns.
The “most trustworthy” designation is especially meaningful for Travel Leisure, whose business model hinges on delivering authentic travel experiences through a combination of print, digital, and event platforms. A trustworthy brand is therefore not just a marketing win—it is a safeguard for its readership and advertisers alike.
Inside the Company: Culture, Leadership, and Future Plans
Travel Leisure’s CEO, Elliot S. Cohen, released a statement highlighting how the two honors are a testament to “our employees’ passion and our dedication to ethical journalism.” Cohen noted that the company’s “core values—curiosity, courage, and community—drive everything we do, from the stories we publish to the way we treat our people.” The CEO also stressed that the company’s long-term vision involves investing in emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR) and AI to bring immersive travel experiences to audiences worldwide.
The company’s Human Resources team credits a few critical initiatives for its success:
- Mentorship Programs that pair junior writers with senior editors to accelerate skill development.
- Inclusive Hiring Practices that ensure candidates from underrepresented backgrounds have equal opportunity.
- Wellness Benefits that include mental health support, flexible vacation policies, and wellness stipends.
Travel Leisure has also announced plans to roll out a “Green Initiative” across its offices and publishing facilities, aiming to cut carbon emissions by 30% over the next five years. The initiative aligns with the company’s broader sustainability agenda, which includes promoting responsible travel and partnering with environmental NGOs to support eco-friendly tourism projects.
Broader Industry Impact
The dual recognition is particularly significant in the travel and media sector, where companies often face intense competition and evolving consumer expectations. The Gallup award affirms that Travel Leisure has cultivated an environment where employees feel empowered and engaged—key factors in producing high-quality, trustworthy journalism. Meanwhile, the Newsweek accolade serves as a public endorsement that the company’s editorial integrity and corporate ethics resonate with audiences and investors alike.
Industry analysts have noted that the “Exceptional Workplace” label can boost recruitment, especially among younger talent who prioritize workplace culture and purpose. Additionally, the “Most Trustworthy Companies” listing can strengthen relationships with advertisers who are increasingly aligning with brands that reflect values such as sustainability and transparency.
Travel Leisure’s achievements are a microcosm of a broader trend: media companies that successfully merge employee engagement with ethical storytelling are positioned for sustainable growth. As the industry navigates post-pandemic realities—remote work, digital transformation, and a heightened focus on social responsibility—the company’s accolades may become a benchmark for others in the sector.
Sources and Further Reading
- Gallup Employee Engagement Survey – Gallup (https://www.gallup.com/employee-engagement-survey)
- Newsweek “Most Trustworthy Companies” List – Newsweek (https://www.newsweek.com/most-trustworthy-companies-2023)
- Travel Leisure Company Overview – Travel Leisure (https://www.travelleisure.com)
In closing, Travel Leisure’s dual recognition underscores a powerful narrative: when a company aligns its internal culture with external ethical standards, it creates a virtuous cycle that benefits employees, customers, and the broader community. The “Exceptional Workplace” and “Most Trustworthy Companies” titles serve not only as accolades but as a call to other firms to invest in people and purpose as the pillars of long-term success.
Read the Full Business Wire Article at:
[ https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230329005756/en/Travel-Leisure-Co.-Honored-as-a-Gallup-Exceptional-Workplace-and-Recognized-Among-Most-Trustworthy-Companies-by-Newsweek ]