Far too few staff in tourism
Business
Shortly before the start of the high season, Salzburg tourism is still short of staff. According to the hotel and catering industry, the booking situation is good. In the long term, the shortage of staff could change things. More and more hotels only offer breakfast – no more half-board and no restaurants.
The start of the new ski season was pleasingly good, says Walter Veit, President of the Austrian Hotel Association (ÖHV). Because Christmas Eve falls on a Saturday today, many vacationers would only arrive on Christmas Day. From then on, the booking situation is excellent: “This week will definitely be full. We are well booked until January 6th.”
Many no longer operate restaurants
The shortage of staff is still dramatic, says the spokesman: “80 percent of colleagues are still desperately looking for employees.” The shortage inevitably affects the guests: “Some ski huts have closed for a day. In many hotels that used to have a small restaurant, this is closed. Many establishments only offer breakfast. And this continues.”
If a solution is not found soon, Austria’s reputation as a hospitable holiday destination will ultimately be at stake, warns the ÖHV President.