Mexican Caribbean resort industry reports staff shortage in preparation for summer

Cancun and surrounding Mexican Caribbean beaches have avoided the influx of sargassum seaweed, but the tourist areas are falling victim to the decline of qualified employees.

The luxurious resorts and hotels on the island require round-the-clock staff, including front desk clerks, housekeepers, culinary staff, maintenance techs and more. Resorts in the area are preparing for their active summer season and fear they will not have the staff to support what is predicted to be their busiest travel season.

According to The Cancun Sun, over 8.4 million travelers made their way through Cancun International Airport during the first quarter of the year. With the travel trends rising and more visitors on their way to enjoy the sand, resorts may not have the supply to fit the demand.

Isla Mujeres has become popular because of its seaweed-free beaches and luxury properties. The outlet states that local hotel and resort representatives are still having trouble filling positions, although they have increased hiring efforts.

Raúl Angulo, head of the Southern Hospitality Association of Quintana Roo, told The Cancun Sun other parts of the Mexican Caribbean are also struggling to hire enough experienced personnel. Angulo said places like Bacalar and Mahahual are significantly affected by the issue, “which may affect service levels across the area’s resorts.”

Areas with smaller accommodation communities, such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum, also have employment issues. Local citizens, however, have criticized the area’s hospitality industry, claiming that low wages and precarious working conditions make them apprehensive about applying.

Mexican Caribbean visitation chambers and officials are working with hotel and resort organizations to combat the hiring issue. They are working collaboratively to launch hiring and training programs and improve current employee conditions.

Although the tourism industry has voiced concern about employment rates, resorts and hotels have not reported any closings or plans to decline customer service. While travelers are cautioned to prepare for longer lines and altered availability, they are ensured they will have the same great experience and unforgettable time on the island.

Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her favorite things to cover include “person of interest” pieces, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything about Beyoncé. Her bylines can be found in Blavity, Black Excellence, Signature Bride, Black Wall Street Times, and HipHop Weekly. Martie can be reached via email at martiebowser@detourxp.com.

This story was originally published May 30, 2023 at 1:00 PM.