The Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association has released results of a recent statewide hospitality industry survey showing that nine in ten restaurants and nearly every hotel is operating with inadequate staffing to meet consumer demand. Association President Justin Winslow told Michigan News Network the shortage comes despite higher wages being offered by establishments.
“There were trends before COVID-19 hit that this industry was outpacing all other industries in terms of wage growth, and you’re seeing that in spades now,” Winslow said. “95% of respondents increased wages in 2021.”
Winslow is called on the state legislature and Governor Gretchen Whitmer to come together on a deal that prioritizes the hospitality industry in yet-to-be-appropriated federal relief dollars.
