US: Wineries Banking on Busier Tourist Season

(Wines&Vines) - During spring, wineries typically hire extra tasting room staff to help out during the busy summer months.

But in the past three months, the Winery Jobs Index based on Winejobs.com postings has soared to record levels. In March, the index literally went off the charts, climbing to its highest level since its launch in 2007.

The most recent Wine Industry Metrics report by Wines & Vines found continued index growth in April with it reaching 275 (59% higher than April 2012), and tasting room/hospitality jobs up 85% compared to April 2012.

Job offers in the other categories of production and sales and marketing are also up but not at the same level as hospitality. Nicole Smartt, co-owner of Star Staffing in Santa Rosa, Calif., said most of her company’s business is with wineries, and they’ve seen a 34% increase in winery hiring over last year. She said the growth has been mainly in hospitality positions, but she added that wineries have been looking for additional staff in production and bottling as well.

Smartt said Napa Valley is way up, and she attributes that to what looks to be a strong summer. “I think they’re seeing a lot more tourists.”