On December 4, the European Commission published the Quality Jobs Roadmap, a document aimed at modernizing workplaces and protecting workers during the economic and technological transition. This document paves the way for the Quality Jobs Act planned for 2026. The communication critically notes that in EU public procurement, the principle of “price as the sole criterion” still prevails too often. During the 2026 revision of public procurement directives, the Commission will advocate for the broader application of the Best Price-Quality Ratio and the existence of collective agreements.

The first round of consultations with partners will run until January 29, 2026. The consultation focuses on critical areas—also affecting the hospitality industry—such as:

  • Transparency and challenges of subcontracting chains.
  • Psychosocial and ergonomic risks in occupational safety.
  • Artificial intelligence and algorithmic management.
  1. Labor Market Situation and Training
  • 50 million people: The number of people currently outside the labor market in the EU (the majority of whom are women). According to the report, this reserve holds the key to maintaining competitiveness.
  • Support for shortage occupations: The EU is mobilizing significant resources for digital skills development, including €400 million through the Digital Europe Programme and an estimated €28 billion under NextGenerationEU.
  1. Occupational Safety and Health
  • 3.3%: The social cost of workplace accidents and illnesses as a percentage of EU GDP.
  • 1:2 Return on Investment: Every €1 spent on prevention yields a return of more than €2 to the economy.
  • Workplace harassment statistics: One in three women (33%) in the EU has experienced sexual harassment at work. This rate is even higher among women aged 18–29, at 41.6% (a particularly relevant figure for the young female workforce in hospitality).
  1. Wages and Representation
  • 0.5%: Over the past decade, average real wage growth has been only 0.5% annually at the EU level, significantly limiting purchasing power.
  • 1 in 12: “In-work poverty” affects nearly one in twelve workers, particularly part-time and low-skilled employees.
  • Declining collective agreements: Collective bargaining coverage in the EU fell from 77% in 2005 to 66% by 2024. The goal is for Member States where coverage is below 80% to develop action plans to strengthen it.
  1. Public Procurement and EU Funds
  • 15%: Public sector procurement accounts for approximately 15% of EU GDP—representing a massive market for companies providing quality jobs (e.g., in contract catering).
  • €141.3 billion: The amount available under the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) for the 2021–2027 period for human capital development.

The document emphasizes that demographic changes and the shortage of skilled labor require structural solutions: the goal is to create workplaces that “attract and retain talent from all generations.” High priority is given to reskilling and upskilling, especially regarding the digital and green transitions, as well as facilitating the integration of third-country workers through “Talent Pools” and simplifying the cross-border recognition of qualifications.

The roadmap seeks a balance between fair working conditions and a business-friendly environment. The Commission aims to reduce administrative burdens for SMEs while taking stricter action against labor exploitation, with a particular focus on subcontracting chains and labor recruitment.

Quality jobs are the cornerstone of European competitiveness and talent retention. Therefore, the consultation with social partners—launched as a preparation for the Quality Jobs Act—aims to create a modern labor market. By respecting the diversity of national systems and the autonomy of social partners while minimizing administrative burdens, the new regulation intends to guarantee the EU’s economic resilience through a balance of flexibility, skills development, and worker protection.

The document is available at the following link.