Only weeks ago, the nation’s $550-billion lodging industry was thriving amid record-breaking travel demand and a surge in international visitors. The majority, however, have only unemployment benefits to look forward to. Lucky workers get some pay and health benefits to tide them over. Restaurants, florists, retailers and others have abruptly laid off employees in recent days.

“In the middle of this pandemic, I’m now unemployed and will soon lose health insurance for my entire family,” said Walter Almendarez, a bellman who worked 23 years for the hotel.Ĭhateau Marmont isn’t unique in its response to a crisis that is expected to devastate broad swaths of business and industry, whether because of plummeting demand or government mandated closure. For decades, the luxurious Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood has been a favorite haunt of actors and musicians who enjoyed its secluded European flair and high-end amenities.īut when the coronavirus outbreak pushed hotel occupancy rates below 30% throughout Southern California, even the famed 91-year-old hotel was forced to take drastic action: The hotel abruptly fired most of its staff with no severance pay and only a brief extension of health benefits.

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