The Styrian star chef Johann Lafer makes it clear that gastronomy is responsible for the current misery: “Employees were overwhelmed and poorly paid,” he says in the interview “Steirerkrone”.
„Styrian crown“: Mr. Lafer, you gave an interview in Germany that met with much acclaim, but also harsh scolding. What was the tenor?
Johann Lafer: I don’t like being seen as the bad guy – but I just told the truth as I see the situation in the hospitality industry.
Which would be?
It is of course clear that you cannot tar everyone with the same brush, and I do not. But in the hospitality industry, employees were simply overwhelmed for far too long. And underpaid for this excessive demand. And the tone of conversation in many a kitchen – that just wasn’t a reputation for the entire job description.
Then came corona…
… and many have noticed that there is also a life where you don’t have to work so much in other industries and still manage to get by somehow.
You were born in Styria and have been living and working in Germany for years. Is the staff shortage just as noticeable there?
Yes, very bad. An example: next year, together with Michael Käfer, I will be organizing the culinary arts for the world-famous CHIO equestrian event in Aachen. This requires 55 cooks and 250 serving staff. Our most pressing problem this time is not what menus we offer, that’s no problem. Our biggest challenge will be getting the staff.
You have never regretted your choice to work in the hospitality industry and have undoubtedly had a top career. But can you recommend the job to guys?
Yes! Not every influencer has to be. Cook and waiter are among the few jobs that open the gates to the world. But with whom you can also make a career at home. Just a great job.
What can be done to make the hospitality industry more attractive again?
image campaigns. And with current offers that many innkeepers already have. Attractive salary, short working week, company benefits.
Whatever you do, in the hospitality industry there is always the problem that you have to work while others are free.
Just like so many others! From nursing professions to police officers to taxi drivers. You are a service provider. And that can be a very nice job.
How will the hospitality industry develop in the future?
I think there are coffee houses left at the end of the day because they don’t have such a high display window for the groceries. In addition, the system gastronomy. And top places where you don’t go because you’re hungry, but are looking for a special gastronomic experience for special occasions.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
