Skip to main content

Houston Business Barometer Week 6: Some Local Companies Beginning to Recall Furloughed Workers

Published May 13, 2020 by A.J. Mistretta

H_GHP_Downtown_Freeways_2019

A minority of local companies have recalled all or some of the employees they had to furlough in response to the coronavirus pandemic as they resume operations, according to a new survey from the Greater Houston Partnership. 

Nearly 10% of the companies that responded to this week’s Houston Business Barometer survey said they had recalled all or some of their employees while another 24% reported they had not yet recalled any of those furloughed or laid off. Nearly 67% of respondents said they never had to furlough or lay off workers. 

Approximately 23% of companies said they had partially or fully reopened their previously shuttered operations, while another 23% said they had not reopened yet. About 54% reported they never halted operations. 

Nearly 42% of responding companies said they are currently developing a plan to reopen while 27% say they have a plan and are preparing to execute it. When it comes to where employees are actually working, 3.2% of companies said they had recalled all of their employees to the office and another 32% said they’ve recalled some employees to the workplace. Just over 61% said they have not yet recalled employees working from home to the workplace. 

Asked what elements of their business they might reassess in response to their COVID-19 experience, the top three answers among respondents this week were: telecommuting practices, office design/layout and technology needs. 

A total of 93 companies responded to the fifth Houston Business Barometer survey conducted by the Partnership between May 11 and 12. 

See results from Week 5.  
 
Get information and guidelines on reopening businesses safely from the Partnership's Houston Work Safe Program. Visit the Partnership's COVID-19 Resource page for updates, guidance for employers and more information.

Related News

Economic Development

Houston Day: Bridging Houston and Texas Lawmakers

12/20/24
What does it take to showcase Houston’s extraordinary contributions to Texas? For the Greater Houston Partnership, the answer was Houston Day. The transformative event gave state legislators a firsthand look at the industries and innovations driving one of the most dynamic regions in the country. Over two days in early 2024, 57 Texas lawmakers and other attendees explored Houston’s core sectors, experiencing the city’s impact on the state’s economy and culture. The event wasn’t just a tour but a strategic opportunity to connect lawmakers with the people and industries shaping Texas’ future. A Journey Through Houston’s Vital Sectors The experience began at Port Houston, a hub of economic activity essential to Texas’ position as a global trade leader. Legislators saw the port’s operations up close and learned about the evolution of the Houston Ship Channel, the energy transition, and the Coastal Texas Program’s flood mitigation efforts. From there, the focus shifted to Houston’s renowned space industry. Visits to the Johnson Space Center-NASA and Space Center Houston highlighted Houston’s legacy of innovation and the recent investments fueling the Texas Space Commission. The day concluded with a private dinner at Minute Maid Park, where Mayor John Whitmire underscored the importance of collaboration between local and state leaders. Showcasing Innovation and Heritage The final day of Houston Day spotlighted Houston’s cutting-edge advancements and cultural heritage. At Air Liquide’s La Porte Hydrogen facility, legislators explored groundbreaking technologies driving the energy transition. Later, a visit to the Texas Medical Center’s Helix Park showcased Houston’s leadership in medical research and health care innovation. The event culminated at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, celebrating the rich cultural fabric of Texas. Why Houston Day Matters “I was honored to showcase Houston’s vibrant contributions to the economy, space innovation, and leadership in the medical and energy sectors to my colleagues at the Legislature. It’s no longer just words on a page or something discussed in a committee meeting—they’ve experienced it all.” -State Senator Carol Alvarado. For the Greater Houston Partnership, Houston Day was a resounding success. By connecting lawmakers directly with Houston’s industries, the event reinforced the city’s significance to Texas and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. By the Numbers: 57 legislators and four state agencies in attendance 162 total attendees 180+ miles traveled, covering over $1 trillion in economic impact 20+ industrial and commercial sectors highlighted Eight stops representing approximately $252.5 billion in state investments Houston Day exemplifies how the Greater Houston Partnership brings leaders together to build understanding, foster collaboration, and drive progress for the region and beyond. Learn more about the Partnership's public policy efforts. Download the Partnership's 2024 Impact Report.
Read More

Related Events

Membership

HOU2ATX Austin Day

Join us as we head to Austin for an invaluable experience at HOU2ATX Austin Day. This event marks the celebration of the 89th Legislative Session, providing a unique opportunity to advocate for our members and the…

Learn More
Learn More
Executive Partners