Ibiza and Formentera tourism sector reports mixed seasonal results

The tourism sector in Ibiza and Formentera has concluded a season characterized by stable visitor numbers and positive revenue in some areas, despite significant operational challenges. Data from Ibestat shows a 1.25% increase in tourists between May and August compared to the previous year, with gastrotourism reaching 2.078 billion euros.

However, the hotel industry faces a growing labor crisis. A report by the Ibiza and Formentera Hotel Business Federation (FEHIF) indicates that larger hotels with 200 or more employees are struggling with staff shortages, particularly in kitchen, cleaning, and dining departments. These larger establishments also report increased rates of absenteeism and difficulty retaining staff, citing housing issues and competition from other sectors as primary causes for turnover.

While the British market remains the largest source of visitors, there has been a notable 10.46% decrease in Italian tourists. Industry leaders, including Zafiro Hotels CEO Antònia Plomer, noted improvements in occupancy and average rates but highlighted rising costs and a shift toward last-minute bookings. Plomer also emphasized the need to combat illegal holiday rentals to protect residential housing.