Labor shortage in the Harz: Foreigners secure the future of the hospitality industry!

Labor shortage in the Harz: Foreigners secure the future of the hospitality industry!

In the picturesque Harz, which attracts millions of holidaymakers and hikers every year, there is a growing problem that is causing the tourism infrastructure to falter: the lack of workers. In order to maintain tourism offerings, many hotels and restaurants are increasingly relying on foreign employees. While around 8.12 million overnight stays were recorded in the Harz in 2023, recruiting local workers is a real challenge.

Loud News38 The proportion of foreign workers in the catering and hotel industries is higher than in other sectors. The German Press Agency confirms that companies often rely on international employees to maintain operations in hotels and restaurants. The shortage of skilled workers in particular affects both urban and rural areas in the Harz Mountains.

Foreign skilled workers are urgently needed

The demand extends not only to seasonal workers, but also to qualified professionals such as chefs. The focus is on positions that are difficult to fill, and despite these efforts, the shortage of workers remains a pressing problem. The Harz Tourism Association reports on the difficulties in attracting enough German workers, which only increases the dependence on foreign workers.

The origins of the workforce are diverse. On the East Frisian Islands, such as Borkum and Norderney, for example, every second employee in the hospitality industry is from abroad. Workers from Romania, Poland, Ukraine and Vietnam are particularly popular here, like them Yahoo News report.

Recruitment challenges

The access requirements for non-EU citizens are particularly critical. They not only have to prove an employment contract, but also language skills and have their professional qualifications recognized. The visa process can take up to several months, which means that businesses often simply cannot open at the beginning of the peak season - a problem that no one wants.

In addition, targeted efforts are being made to recruit workers from Morocco. The state government has established a labor migration partnership with the Tangier region, and the first Moroccan trainees have already arrived in the hospitality industry. This initiative could help alleviate labor shortages in the long term, as well n-ag.de reported.

A tourist gem

The Harz itself offers an impressive backdrop with its national park and one of the largest forest landscapes in Germany. Particularly popular are the Brocken, known for its mystical atmosphere, and the tall legends surrounding the Witches' Dance Place and the Devil's Wall. Despite the flourishing tourism, companies now have to do everything they can to attract the necessary workers to maintain this location in its tourist splendor.

The Harz has a lot to offer, both for visitors and future employees. But without the necessary support and skilled workers, it will be a challenge to maintain these beauties and the gastronomy in the Harz.