The employment in the event catering sector in Finland has exhibited fluctuating trends over the past decade. From 2013 to 2017, the sector showed modest growth, peaking in 2014 with a 9.1% year-on-year increase. However, the sector experienced a notable decline from 2018 through 2020, with 2020 seeing a -12.19% drop, likely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. A recovery phase started in 2021, evidenced by a 9.47% increase, yet the growth remained subdued, averaging a -0.65% CAGR over the last five years, reaching 878 units in 2023. Forecasts for 2024-2028 suggest a slightly declining trend, with a forecasted 5-year CAGR at -0.39% and overall fluctuations indicating a stable yet marginally decreasing employment landscape.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Impact of economic fluctuations and potential recessions on discretionary spending for events.
- The role of digital and hybrid events, which may reshape demand for traditional catering services.
- Potential labor market changes, including shortages or surpluses in the workforce, and how this might impact employment numbers.
