As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup begins, Canadian cities are abuzz with excitement and opportunity. The tournament, taking place from mid-June to mid-July, promises not only thrilling matches in Toronto and Vancouver but also a surge in gig work as locals seek to capitalise on this major global event.
Temporary Jobs on the Rise
Hosting such a high-profile tournament necessitates a vast workforce, leading to a plethora of temporary positions across various sectors. Roles range from security and event coordination to food and beverage services. Small businesses are also gearing up, expanding their teams to cater to the expected influx of soccer enthusiasts.
Danny Murrell, the founder and CEO of Harrison Staffing, noted, “If someone cannot afford a ticket to attend, at least they can work and still feel part of the event.” His company is set to manage staffing at the Canada Soccer House fan destination located at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, focusing primarily on filling bartender and busser roles.
Harrison Staffing began accepting applications in April, aiming to fill between 100 and 150 positions for the World Cup. Murrell reported a “steady influx” of applicants eager for FIFA-related opportunities. “The demographic is predominantly young males, excited to be part of the action,” he remarked.
Economic Potential of the World Cup
The economic ramifications of the World Cup are significant. FIFA estimates that the tournament could generate up to $940 million in economic output for the Greater Toronto Area alone. The British Columbia government anticipates more than a billion dollars in tourism-related revenue in the subsequent five years following the event.
Murrell highlighted that many job seekers are pursuing these roles as a secondary source of income. “Approximately 30 to 40 per cent of our applicants are looking for temporary positions on top of their primary jobs,” he explained. He underscored the changing economic landscape in Canada, where even individuals in well-paying jobs find it challenging to maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a single income.
The Rise of Gig Work
A recent survey conducted by Employment Hero revealed that 14 per cent of 1,500 Canadians surveyed are considering temporary or gig work in connection with major events like the World Cup. Notably, two-thirds of those open to gig work expressed willingness to take time off from their primary employment, with 28 per cent prepared to take unpaid leave.
Karyn Xiong, a people business partner at Employment Hero Canada, noted that the lower barriers to entry for gig work have made it increasingly accessible. “Digital platforms like Upwork, DoorDash, and Uber allow individuals to earn additional income more conveniently than ever before,” she stated.
Beyond the World Cup, summer in Canada presents further opportunities for gig work during large-scale events and festivals, including the Calgary Stampede and the Osheaga music festival in Montreal.
Navigating Financial Implications
Stacy Yanchuk Oleksy, CEO of Money Mentors, has observed a rising trend of individuals seeking side gigs to alleviate financial pressures. “There are two components to budgeting: expenses and income. While it’s possible to reduce spending, sometimes the only solution is to increase income,” she noted.
However, as gig work becomes more prevalent, Xiong cautioned that employers may need to re-evaluate strict contracts that discourage outside work. “Flexibility is key for employers to help employees balance multiple income streams,” she advised.
Yanchuk Oleksy also pointed out the tax implications associated with additional income. She stressed the importance of adjusting tax withholdings to prevent unexpected bills during tax season. “We need to ensure adequate tax is deducted to avoid surprises come April 2027,” she added.
Why it Matters
The FIFA World Cup serves as a catalyst for economic activity and job creation in Canada, particularly within the gig economy. As more individuals look to supplement their incomes amidst rising living costs, the tournament not only ignites passion for the sport but also provides a vital financial lifeline for many. The interplay between major events and local economies underscores the evolving landscape of work and the necessity for adaptability in both employment practices and personal finance strategies.