It isn't something you haven't heard already. Since COVID, so many different industries are having a hard time finding employees which undeniably affects how a business can be conducted. HopCat in Downtown Grand Rapids is currently confronting that reality right now.

Vice President of BarFly Ventures, the company that owns HopCat, spoke with FOX 17 and said even with modifications they're still struggling. The restaurant used to be open during the day for lunch and now don't open until 4 p.m. for dinner. They're also now closed on Tuesday's. FOX 17 says that they even had to close early last Friday due to being short staffed.

Like many other businesses have done, BarFly is offering incentives to get people motivated to apply such as a $1,000 sign-on bonus and $1,000 referral bonus. BarFly Ventures operates HopCat, Stella's Lounge, and Grand Rapids Brewing Company. Minimum wage for kitchen workers has been raised to $15.50/hour at all three restaurants. In addition, they're giving their employees free mental health care.

While HopCat is eager to get new people in the door they're also making it a priority to show their current employees that its a desirable place to be at to ensure they want to stay.

BarFly Ventures has a list of current openings at their Grand Rapids locations here. You can apply directly on the website. Jobs include line cooks, bar backs, and servers.

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Another industry seeing shortages is in education. In fact, there was a 40% increase in teacher retirements in 2020. Grand Rapids Public Schools says they are in major need of staff for the upcoming school year. Interested? Mark your calendar for GRPS' job fair on Saturday, August 14.

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