New York City’s tourism agency is temporarily laying off more than half its staff from next month. As the Covid-19 hotspot in the US, New York City has seen tourism virtually evaporate and the company will furlough 77 employees, representing about 55 percent of the organization’s workforce. Furloughs will be effective through July.

“With the business community largely closed, revenue from advertising, promotions and membership activity is severely impacted. Therefore, difficult decisions had to be made to balance the budget,” said NYC & Company spokesperson Chris Heywood.

Hotel occupancy has declined to about 25 percent of its usual level and live entertainment, sports and events that NYC & Company normally promotes have all been cancelled or postponed until later in the year.

New York welcomed 66 million visitors last year – giving the city an enviable 10 consecutive years of tourism growth.