USTA: travel industry unemployment now over 50 per cent
More than half of the nearly 16 million travel-related jobs in the US have gone since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
That is the harsh reality according to a study commissioned by the U.S. Travel Association.
It says the number of unemployed in the industry (51%) is more than double the jobless rate for the whole country during the Great Depression.
"Our national economy is in a recession, but the travel industry is already in a depression," said Roger Dow, president and CEO, U.S. Travel Association, of the study conducted by research firm Tourism Economics.
"Travel-related businesses have been hit disproportionately hard by the pandemic’s fallout and, unfortunately, our workforce is on the front lines of that struggle."
It comes ahead of Memorial Day weekend, which traditionally ushers in the start of the summer season.
Dow called for expanded eligibility of the payroll protection program to allow businesses to stay afloat and further stimulative measures will be important.’
US Travel says there is evidence of pent up demand to travel but the travel industry will look and feel different for the foreseeable future, with a focus on safety and improved cleanliness.
The association has been instrumental in helping the industry adapt to enhanced health and safety protocols.
"Whatever government and health authorities decide about the right timing to reopen, we are giving consumers confidence that the travel ecosystem is embracing the most vigorous and well-informed practices."
"That is critical as the industry prepares for the return of travel, which will bring jobs back and help rebuild the country’s economic strength," Dow added.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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