Croatia in need of 70,000 workers in tourism this year – finding them a challenge

Split

As Croatia gears up for another busy tourist season, the demand for seasonal workers in hospitality and tourism is reaching new heights.

As HRT reports, this year, around 70,000 workers will be needed, but finding staff remains a challenge.

Employers are offering higher wages in an attempt to secure the workforce they need.

Hundreds of job ads have been posted for positions in tourism, hospitality, and retail. To help connect job seekers with employers, the “Days of Jobs in Tourism” event was held in six Croatian cities: Bjelovar, Požega, Virovitica, Osijek, Sisak, and Zagreb.

“Events like this allow employers to directly connect with potential workers,” said Maja Čeko from the Croatian Employment Service in Šibenik.

Large hotel chains have been recruiting staff for months, aiming to finalise their workforce by May.

“We are currently in the process of finalising agreements with new employees and reconnecting with our regular seasonal staff,” said Matej Rukavina, HR director at a hotel resort.

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Employment

Hotels operating year-round find it easier to retain seasonal staff.

“For the last few years, we have kept in touch with our seasonal workers, who often return to help during conferences and congresses,” said Marko Plavčić, marketing director of a hotel company.

However, smaller businesses face a yearly struggle to find workers.

“Some staff return from the previous season, but many positions need to be filled from scratch every year. It’s tough, and we often have to hire from non-EU countries,” said Anita Periš, manager of a hospitality venue.

Higher Wages to Attract Workers

To improve recruitment, employers are offering better pay.

“Experienced waiters can earn between €1,400 and €1,600 per month, chefs between €1,600 and €1,800, while housekeepers and cleaners will be paid around €1,300 to €1,400,” Rukavina explained.

Hotels are also trying to attract younger workers, including students and recent graduates.

“We are focusing on training younger employees so they can continue working with us in the long term,” added Plavčić.

Strong Start to the Year in Kvarner

Meanwhile, Kvarner has already seen an increase in visitors. In the first three months of the year, tourism numbers are up by 15% compared to last year, with around 10,000 tourists already in the region.

“This weekend alone, Lošinj hosted over 1,000 visitors, mainly for a cycling race and regatta. Sports events and congresses are key drivers of early-season tourism,” said Dalibor Cvitković, director of the Mali Lošinj Tourist Board.

While securing workers is still a challenge, Lošinj is managing well.

“Eighty percent of our workforce returns each year, mainly from former Yugoslav countries. The extended season helps, as we now need staff for seven to eight months instead of just the summer,” Cvitković added.

Despite rising visitor numbers, Croatia’s tourism industry continues to face difficulties in securing a reliable workforce. While higher wages and extended employment periods offer some solutions, the challenge of seasonal staffing remains a recurring issue for employers across the country.