Many changes

After corona: restaurants more expensive and more often closed

Five years after coronavirus and the associated lockdowns, the catering industry has undergone a number of lasting changes as a result.(Bild: APA/BARBARA GINDL)

Five years after the coronavirus pandemic and the associated lockdowns, the food service industry has undergone lasting changes. The increased number of days off in the sector is particularly noticeable. The rise in prices is also noticeable, although this is not only due to the pandemic, but also to subsequent crises such as the energy price crisis.

"The lockdowns were eye-opening," says Mario Pulker, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce for Gastronomy. Many restaurateurs realized that they would only survive with cash flow and a "hole open - hole closed" tactic. "The lockdowns were eye-opening." Many guests also understood that things could no longer continue as before after coronavirus.

More days off and fewer staff

• As a result, many businesses now have fixed closing times and rest days or more rest days.
• Corona has led to a loss of employees in the sector. Many have switched to the retail sector and no longer want to work full-time for the sake of their work-life balance.
• The catering industry also has the third-highest number of insolvencies by sector after construction and retail.