by InTrieste
As Europe’s tourism sector gears up for another busy summer, the picturesque island town of Grado is starting early with a major recruitment drive to fill seasonal positions. On January 23, Grado’s tourism facilities, managed by Grado Impianti Turistici (GIT), will host a Recruiting Info-Day to hire 60 new workers across various roles in preparation for the 2025 summer season.
This early hiring push reflects broader trends in the tourism industry, where the high season is stretching longer and demand for skilled staff is increasing. Positions range from lifeguards and entertainers to cooks, cashiers, and wellness professionals such as massage therapists and beauticians. Notably, the job offer includes housing for employees, a move seen as an innovative step to attract workers from outside the immediate area and address regional labor shortages.
“Offering housing is not just an added perk—it’s a socially innovative step toward making seasonal work more sustainable for the future,” said Alessia Rosolen, the Regional Councillor for Employment. “This type of support represents what we hope will become a structural element of employment services in the region.”
The recruitment event highlights the evolving dynamics of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s tourism economy. With applications starting in January, companies are offering longer contracts than in previous years, reflecting the expansion of the summer season. GIT President Roberto Marin described the event as a crucial step to ensure high-quality services for Grado’s visitors, which include thousands of tourists from Italy and abroad.
In 2024, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s recruiting initiatives proved successful, with 39 similar events across the region connecting over 6,400 candidates to job interviews. Organizers of the Grado event are optimistic that this year’s campaign will continue that momentum, attracting young workers under 30 as well as older professionals seeking seasonal employment opportunities.
Grado, with its sandy beaches and historic charm, has become a magnet for tourists seeking relaxation and cultural experiences. As the town prepares for the influx of visitors, the recruitment day aims to ensure that its tourism infrastructure, from beachside restaurants to wellness centers, is fully staffed and ready to meet the demands of the season.
“It’s not just about filling positions,” added Rosolen. “We’re also aligning with a growing tourism industry that demands extended contracts, quality service, and innovative workforce solutions.”
The January event underscores the region’s efforts to blend tradition with innovation, addressing both workforce needs and the growing expectations of global travelers. For Grado, it’s a critical step in maintaining its reputation as a premier destination on the Adriatic coast.
