Fürth's Hospitality Thrives Despite Staffing and Wage Challenges
The hospitality industry in Fürth continues to thrive, with a 0.8 percent increase in overnight stays in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. This positive trend follows the record year of 2024. However, the industry faces significant challenges, including staff shortages and wage concerns, as highlighted by the trade union Nahrung-Genuss-Gaststätten (NGG).
In the first half of 2025, Fürth recorded around 149,800 overnight stays, demonstrating the city's appeal to tourists. This positive trend is a continuation of the record year in 2024. However, the industry is grappling with severe staffing issues. Many businesses struggle to find enough workers, leading to reduced opening hours and lower revenues. This problem is exacerbated by the exodus of many full-time workers during the pandemic.
The NGG has criticized the use of temporary workers and the lack of skilled workers in the industry. It has also raised concerns about pay, with the collective bargaining entry wage being 17.85 euros per hour, but many businesses paying only the legal minimum wage of 12.82 euros per hour. The NGG has also taken issue with the 'special membership' offered by the Bavarian Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), which allows businesses to avoid agreed wages.
While the hospitality industry in Fürth continues to attract tourists, the sector faces significant challenges, including staff shortages and wage concerns. The NGG has criticized the industry's reliance on temporary workers and the gap between agreed wages and actual pay. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the industry's long-term sustainability and success.
