Ahead of summer rush, seasonal businesses struggle to find workers

May 25, 2022

Seasonal industries are struggling to ramp up ahead of the busy summer rush as Canada’s rock-bottom unemployment rate and swelling job vacancies create an acute hiring crunch.

The shortage of workers comes as operators in the hospitality, retail and recreation sectors expect a strong rebound in customers.

Warmer weather, receding COVID-related health concerns, pent-up demand and a stockpile of household savings are all driving an increase in tourism and hospitality spending, a recent RBC Economics report said.

The situation is leaving businesses from restaurants and hotels to garden centres and landscaping firms scrambling for workers.

Some companies are beginning to offer higher wages and incentives such as flexible scheduling or even scholarships to stand out and attract applicants.

“A lot of industries are looking for seasonal staff right now. There’s a lot of competition,” said Cyrus Cooper, professor at Centennial College School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts.

Source: Globe News