The tourism ecosystem was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to face major workforce challenges.

Due to lockdowns and reduced employment opportunities, many workers previously employed in accommodation and food and beverage services moved to other sectors, without intending to return. In Europe, employment in travel and tourism is estimated to have dropped by 9.3%, equating to 3.6 million jobs.

The European Commission is currently working on finding effective ways to support the tourism industry in attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, and to relaunch EU tourism with improved long-term resilience.

This Survey aims to assemble concrete data on staff shortages in the EU tourism industry, directly from stakeholders.