Connecticut suffered huge job losses in March and April 2020, but has added jobs each month since. Nevertheless, nearly every industry is likely to be below pre-pandemic levels at the end of the year.
Assuming a successful distribution of an effective vaccine, pent-up demand for services that were delayed or avoided during the pandemic (such as routine medical procedures) will lead to a spike in employment in late summer or early fall 2021 – strong growth compared to the depressed 2020 level and moderately better than 2019.
Employment in accommodation and food services will be strong as consumers return to normal patterns of dining in restaurants and socializing. The smaller arts, entertainment, and recreation sector will see a similar rebound.
On the other hand, the pre-pandemic trend of retail sales shifting from in-person stores to delivery accelerated during the pandemic. These trends will not reverse although the 2021 holiday season will see strong sales.
The relative weakness in retail will be offset by continued strength in warehousing and delivery employment.
Patrick J. Flaherty, Assistant Director of Research, Connecticut Department of Labor.