Between 2013 and 2019, Finland's employment in the accommodation and food services sector experienced steady growth, reflected by consistent year-on-year increases. However, the sector faced a significant contraction in 2020 due to external shocks, evident by the sharp decline of 18.58%. Recovery began in 2021 and dramatically increased in 2022, showing resilience and adaptability. By 2023, employment in the sector rebounded to 166.6 million hours. The forecast indicates continuous growth, with the sector expected to recover steadily at an average annual growth rate of 1.17% over the next five years, reaching 179.2 million hours by 2028.
Future trends to watch for include the impact of technology and automation on employment, shifts in consumer behavior towards sustainability and local experiences, and potential policy changes aimed at boosting tourism and hospitality sectors. Monitoring these factors will be crucial for sustaining growth and addressing workforce challenges.