Andorran firms report adequate winter staffing as weekend traffic strains services

The Andorran Employers’ Confederation says most companies expect to have adequate staff for the winter season, with remaining gaps described as isolated and manageable. Businesses report ongoing last‑minute recruitment and roster adjustments as resorts finalise teams ahead of openings. Seasonal hiring has concentrated on peak shifts and guest‑facing roles such as housekeeping, front‑of‑house and catering, with many contracts aimed at covering the busiest periods.

Preparations were tested over a busy long weekend, when heavy visitor flows and peak traffic caused significant congestion and put extra pressure on emergency and commercial services. A series of collisions in central Andorra compounded delays and highlighted the strain on response capacity during peak times.

At about 18:00 a triple collision on Avinguda Tarragona, near the Lycée, left at least three vehicles partially blocking the downhill lane and caused lengthy tailbacks across central links. Witnesses and traffic services reported cars stopped for several minutes, with queues extending as far as the Engolasters roundabout. Emergency crews — including firefighters, medical teams and police, plus traffic agents — attended the scene. Initial reports indicate mainly material damage and no serious injuries.

Shortly before that, emergency services received notice of a three‑vehicle crash in front of the Estadi Comunal at 17:49. Firefighters deployed with a fire engine and two ambulances, and police sent a patrol to manage traffic. Authorities later reported two people suffered whiplash‑type injuries and were treated by emergency teams.

Fire, police and medical services say the weekend’s caseload underscored the pressure on road‑safety and rescue resources during times of high mobility. Firms, sector associations and public agencies say they are coordinating to manage visitor flows and keep operations running during peak periods, while businesses continue targeted short‑term recruitment and operational tweaks to mitigate remaining staffing strains. Despite operational pressures, employers remain broadly confident the season will drive substantial economic activity.