Recruitment in the hospitality industry is intensifying with the approach of Easter, as indicated by an analysis from Eurofirms – People First based on data from Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics (INE), released this Friday.
“Recruitment in these areas has already been on the rise, in a year where a 4% growth in tourist overnight stays in Portugal is expected, compared to the 80 million recorded in 2024,” stated a press release accessed by the news outlet.
The statement further suggests that between April 14 and 20, hotel occupancy rates could reach 82% in certain municipalities in the Northern region (Porto and Braga), Greater Lisbon (Lisbon and Setúbal), the Algarve (Faro), and Madeira (Funchal and Santa Cruz).
“In anticipation of accommodating 32 million tourists (an increase of 2 million compared to 2024) expected to visit Portugal this year, the Hospitality and Tourism sectors are leading the surge in hiring during this period,” the statement adds.
“The urgent need to reinforce teams particularly affects cleaning and food services, with the roles of room attendant, cook, and kitchen assistant leading the vacancy postings. Additionally, profiles focused on public reception, such as receptionists, are emphasized to ensure the welcome and support of visitors,” it further notes.
It is also mentioned that “after a period of reduced activity at the end of 2024, recruitment in the sector has seen an increase of more than 10% between January and February 2025.”
“This is an upward trend in line with last year’s data, where cities like Porto (+43%), Braga (+42%), and Lisbon (+23%) led in demand for labor between February and March, coinciding with the Easter period,” the statement reads.
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