It’s now September 2020 which means we are 6+ months into the COVID-19 pandemic. As the season changes and end-of-year announcements are made, experts are concerned about the prolonged toll the hospitality industry has endured. With no recovery in sight, it’s important to look at ways we can help our industry, and more importantly the workers who have been impacted by the devastating effects of COVID-19.
Sector Updates
Although the hospitality industry extends far beyond hotels, airlines, and restaurants, these are the three sectors we will be focusing on for this update. Due to consumer travel being at an all-time low, it’s ex
Airlines
- American Airlines and Delta Air Lines have announced major layoffs for October – as much as 20% of their workforce.
- International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (who represents flight attendants, technicians, gate agents, ticketing agents, customer service workers, and ramp workers) anticipates 250k-300k workers will lose their jobs if new government funding does not come through.
Hotels
- Four out of 10 hotel employees are still not working.
- 65% of hotels remain below 50% occupancy.
- Urban hotels are suffering the most as business and event travel are almost non-existent.
- Major hotel chains continue to downsize by laying off corporate employees and turning furloughs into layoffs.
Restaurants
- Two out of three restaurant employees have lost their jobs.
- Four out of 10 restaurants remain closed.
- 25% of full-service restaurants are planning for additional layoffs.
- Most restaurants are not able to sustain their “to-go” model due to the costs associated with supplies and products needed.
How You Can Help the Hospitality Industry
According to experts, the majority of U.S. metropolitan regions have at least 10% of their workforce in the hospitality. This means there are millions of people out there who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and need our help. No matter the capacity, there is a way to help!
Cost: 0$
- If you are out traveling or dining at restaurants, make sure to follow the protocols that have been put in place for your safety and the safety of those serving you.
- If you are in a position to hire, give hospitality workers a chance, as many have great transferable skills and always do well under pressure.
- Contact your Congress representatives and demand aid for the hospitality industry. There are many initiatives that can use your support.
- Click here to find your Representative and click here to find your State Senator.
Cost: $-$$
- Support your local restaurants whenever you do eat out. Bonus if you order directly from them (avoid using UberEats or Doordash).
- Always remember to tip!
- Donate to local food banks or the hospitality relief funds listed below – many hospitality workers are relying on these organizations for support.
- ***For hospitality workers – click on this link to find the resources and help you need!
Cost: $$$
- Purchase travel for the future – it makes a great gift! See the current offers for “buy now, travel later”.
- See Sherman’s Travel roundup for international deals.
- One pro-tip when looking for these deals is to make sure you are booking with American companies as they are providing the most flexibility at this time.
Hospitality is one of the most diverse industries in our country and millions of people depend on the jobs to provide for their loved ones. Hopefully you have learned something new, and hopefully you can help support this industry that so many of us are passionate about.
Sources
- National Restaurant Association
- “REPORT: State of the Hotel Industry Analysis: COVID-19 Six Months Later” American Hotel & Lodging Association
- International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers
- “‘Back to work in the flames’: The hospitality industry sector in a pandemic” Brookings Institution
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