Cluj Tourism Sector Regresses to 2004 Levels
During the press conference of the recently established HoReCa Cluj Employers’ Organization, Roxana Ghiran, representing Cluj hotels, spoke about the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions have had on restaurants, tourism, hotels, and event organizers.
Cluj tourism is the sector that suffered the most during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the figures are dramatic. This sector has returned to the stage it was in 2004 due to the suspension of events, which were the “key” to tourism in Cluj.
Roxana Ghiran, owner of Hotel Napoca, stated that tourists used to come to Cluj for the nightlife, multicultural and sporting events, and festivals.
In 2020, the number of arrivals in Cluj County decreased by 62% compared to 2019. The number of overnight stays also fell by 65%, and the net occupancy rate of accommodation capacity dropped by 20%.
Although between 2015 and 2019 the HoReCa sector made enormous efforts to increase the number of employees, creating over 3,000 jobs in Cluj, those efforts currently seem in vain. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought incredible losses among employees.
Even though the protection measures imposed at both national and local levels aimed to stop the spread of the virus, they could bring Cluj businesses in the HoReCa sector to the brink of bankruptcy.
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only affected people’s physical health but also their “emotional, family, and spiritual” health, claims Marcelus Suciu, representing restaurants in the HoReCa Cluj Employers’ Organization.
Over 25,000 Cluj residents are actively involved in the hospitality industry.
Although the general perspective often encountered is that we must choose between a “functional HoReCa” or limiting the spread of the virus, Marcelus Suciu believes that both can function, as there has been no study to date that contradicts this.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did tourism in Cluj decline during the pandemic?
In 2020, arrivals in Cluj County dropped by 62% and overnight stays by 65% compared to the previous year, effectively setting the industry back to 2004 levels.
What were the main drivers of tourism in Cluj before the pandemic?
The city’s tourism was primarily driven by its vibrant nightlife, multicultural festivals, and major sporting events.
How many people are employed in the Cluj hospitality sector?
Over 25,000 residents of Cluj are actively involved in the hospitality industry, which faced significant job losses and bankruptcy risks due to restrictions.