Naples Grande Beach Resort plans to lay off 235 employees as part of staffing changes tied to a major resort renovation that’s expected to last nearly nine months, according to hotel management.
The decision comes as the luxury beachfront property begins a comprehensive transformation of key facilities, guest rooms and amenities designed to elevate the resort’s long-term competitiveness in Southwest Florida’s hospitality market. While officials say the makeover is necessary to keep pace with evolving guest expectations, the timing and scale of workforce reductions have raised concerns among laid-off employees and local hospitality advocates.
Resort leadership announced the staffing changes would take effect early next month and predominantly affect part-time and seasonal roles. Management said that the layoffs were tied to the extended closure of select resort facilities — including restaurants, event spaces and recreational areas — while construction crews complete scheduled upgrades. During the modernization, some departments are projected to operate at reduced capacity.
The renovations are part of a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at refreshing guest rooms, enhancing beach-side amenities, updating dining venues and modernizing conference and event spaces. Executives have described the project as a strategic move to cater to evolving luxury travel preferences and strengthen the resort’s appeal among upscale leisure and business travelers.
Representatives confirmed that positions eliminated during the renovation will include hotel services, food and beverage, guest services and back-of-house support roles. Many of the impacted workers have been notified, and the company says it will provide separation pay and job-search assistance as part of its workforce transition support.
Local labor groups and hospitality industry advocates noted the timing presents challenges for workers in one of Collier County’s key employment sectors. The winter and spring seasons typically see strong tourism demand in Naples, and layoffs during this period could affect household incomes and spending in the community.
Community leaders also expressed optimism that many of the affected employees may be absorbed by other hospitality employers across the region, where labor demand remains relatively healthy — though some said more robust workforce transition programs would help workers navigate the disruption.
The resort plans to rehire for many of the affected positions once renovation work nears completion and full operations resume. Officials say that ongoing recruitment efforts will focus on returning previous staff where possible, though rehiring is not guaranteed.
Naples Grande Beach Resort’s renovation is part of a broader trend among luxury resorts in Southwest Florida investing in upgrades to stay competitive in a crowded market for high-end travel and seasonal visitors. Hospitality analysts say such investments can boost long-term guest satisfaction but may require short-term operational adjustments as properties undergo construction.
Affected staff and local workforce support services are encouraging employees to explore temporary placements with other area resorts, eateries and service employers while the Naples Grande project progresses.
