June 16, 2020 - 5:59 AM
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The jobs of more than 700 people who work at hotels in Charlotte, North Carolina, have been impacted because of the economic devastation wrought by the coronavirus.
The Charlotte Observer reported Tuesday that the jobs are at several major hotels that include the Westin, Ritz-Carlton and Renaissance Hotel.
Marriott International owns those brands. Spokeswoman Casey Kennett said in a statement that the company has seen a significant drop in consumer demand because of travel and social distancing restrictions.
She said that the firm has adjusted operations with measures that include staff reductions, implementing temporary leave and terminating some employees.
Leisure and hospitality has been among the hardest-hit industries during the coronavirus pandemic. About 21% of unemployment claims filed statewide in March and April came from workers in that sector.
News from © The Associated Press, 2020