LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — A recent report from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation indicates a slight increase in employment rates for August. However, workers and business owners in Las Vegas remain apprehensive about the ongoing impacts of the tourism slump.
Sergio Andrade, a housekeeper with over 18 years of experience on the Strip, expressed concern over the decline in international tourists, particularly from Europe, Mexico, and Canada. “It’s a fear to any employee, any employee that we’re basing on tourism, basing on, you know, how many people come in,” Andrade said. He noted that shifts are now based on seniority, with some workers receiving only three shifts a week, and others facing layoffs.
Vincent Ratolo, owner of Good Pie in the Arts District, shared similar concerns. “I have family members that work on the strip that have been laid off. And so it affects your customers’ ability because people can’t spend where they don’t have,” Ratolo said. Despite these challenges, Ratolo reported that his business is up year over year. “Vegas is a hospitality city. People in Las Vegas, whether you’re visiting, whether you live here passing through, you’re going to consume hospitality,” he said.
Ratolo observed that locals are opting for the Arts District over the Strip for their nights out, which has benefited his business. “Main Street in the arts district can replace the strip as their night out. That’s happening. And we love that because there’s value here,” he said.
While the Culinary Workers Union has not seen widespread mass layoffs yet, they are preparing their members to know their rights if or when they occur. Both Ratolo and Andrade remain optimistic about a potential recovery this fall. “We thank God that we still have a job, you know, we still have a job and we still have our wage increase,” Andrade said.