Europe’s hotel industry struggles with ongoing staff shortages

The European hospitality industry continues to grapple with significant labour shortages and skills gaps, according to a January 2026 position paper published by HOTREC, the umbrella organisation for hotels, restaurants, bars and cafés in Europe. The report, Skills and Labour Shortages in Hospitality – A Roadmap for Action, highlights persistent workforce challenges and proposes policy recommendations to support workforce development and labour supply across the sector. Labour and skills shortages persi ...