The hospitality sector is experiencing a rise in cash-in-hand payments as businesses face financial pressures from increasing costs and a minimum wage hike to €13.50 per hour in January 2025.
Research indicates that many establishments are resorting to cash payments as a way to attract and retain staff, which poses risks related to black market growth and competition.
Changes in the 2025 salary structure will affect entry-level and supervisory roles, while management salaries are expected to remain stable amidst the financial strain.
The industry is adjusting to rising expenses by turning to staffing agencies and automation, reflecting a broader concern for sustainability in light of numerous venue closures.
Shane McLave, Managing Director at Excel Recruitment shared: “The hospitality industry is at a crossroads. With anywhere between 600 and 700 hospitality venues closing in the last 12 months alone, it’s not a surprise that just about everyone we meet in this sector is concerned about its sustainability. Businesses are being forced to make difficult decisions to survive, which has significant implications for both employees and customers.”
