Navigating the Recruitment Landscape in the UK Hospitality Sector

The UK hospitality sector faces both challenges and opportunities in recruitment. As we move into 2024, the industry grapples with a high demand for talent, exacerbated by factors such as Brexit and local shortages. However, there is hope on the horizon, with a surge in staycations and a growing interest in hospitality careers. In this article, we explore key statistics, rising candidate activity, regional challenges, and barriers to recruitment. Let’s delve into the strategies that can help businesses unlock new talent pools and thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality employment.

Key Statistics:

  1. 86% of hospitality employers in the UK are increasing their recruitment for Summer 2024.
  2. 1 in 4 hospitality employers are facing a talent shortage in their local area.
  3. 7 in 10 hospitality employers are hoping to recruit from other regions in the UK.
  4. 3 in 10 UK workers are open to relocating for work.

Hospitality recruitment

Rising Candidate Activity:

Data from Caterer.com shows that candidate activity is on the rise, with the average area of the UK recording a 43% increase in Applications Per Vacancy (APV) in Q1 2024 compared to the same time last year. Despite this increase, 7 in 10 employers continue to face recruitment challenges due to various reasons, including the lingering impact of Brexit.

Regional Challenges:

While hiring trends vary across regions, Scotland, the North East, and East Anglia have seen significant increases in hospitality vacancies. These areas are experiencing a surge in demand, driven by local tourism and events.

Barriers to Recruitment:

Hospitality businesses encounter various recruitment challenges, such as:

  • A high turnover rate
  • A competitive job market
  • A lack of qualified candidates
  • The need for a diverse workforce
  • The need for employee engagement
  • The need for better technology

To thrive in the new age of hospitality hiring, businesses must explore new avenues for talent acquisition. From intensified local recruitment drives to enhanced training programs, the industry can tap into emerging talent and ensure a sustainable workforce. By addressing challenges head-on, hospitality businesses can position themselves for success.

By Ishan Crawford

Prior to the position, Ishan was senior vice president, strategy & development for Cumbernauld-media Company since April 2013. He joined the Company in 2004 and has served in several corporate developments, business development and strategic planning roles for three chief executives. During that time, he helped transform the Company from a traditional U.S. media conglomerate into a global digital subscription service, unified by the journalism and brand of Cumbernauld-media.

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