Alabama beach businesses scramble for employees amid tourism boom: ‘Begging people to work’
Updated 9:42 AM;
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The Wharf entertainment district is celebrating its 15th year with near 100% capacity, and is boasting record-breaking occupancy numbers over the spring.
OWA, an amusement park and entertainment complex in Foley, saw record attendance and sales across the board this spring, according to a spokeswoman. The venue will welcome a waterpark this summer.
Coastal restaurants were packed during the spring break season, from early March through mid-April. They are expected to be even busier this summer.
Indeed, business is booming at Alabama’s biggest tourism draw -- its beaches. At the same time, a labor shortage within the hospitality sector is creating an obstacle and a potential pitfall for the region.