The hospitality industry in the UK is facing unprecedented challenges, with staff shortages emerging as a critical issue in 2024. According to a recent report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the shortage of skilled workers has reached an all-time high, with an alarming 83% increase in advertised vacancies and a staggering shortfall of 170,000 hospitality jobs across the country.

As a consequence, many hospitality operators are grappling with the impact of these shortages, with 45% being forced to reduce capacity or adjust opening hours to cope with the scarcity of staff. To combat this crisis, it has become imperative for businesses to prioritize strategies aimed at staff retention and engagement.

Investing in staff engagement initiatives and comprehensive team training programs has emerged as a crucial priority for hospitality establishments. Moreover, various advocacy groups are actively campaigning for fair wages and advocating for more flexible working arrangements to attract and retain talent. Additionally, there is mounting pressure on the government to review its occupation shortage list to facilitate the recruitment of overseas workers to address the acute shortage of skilled personnel.

In light of the urgency to onboard and train new staff efficiently amidst these shortages, there is a growing emphasis on leveraging technology to streamline training processes. Hospitality software solutions offer valuable tools such as customizable checklists and templates, enabling businesses to enhance training efficiency while minimizing time and costs associated with onboarding new employees.

Amidst these challenges, the resilience and adaptability of the UK hospitality industry will be tested. By implementing proactive measures to address staff shortages and enhance retention efforts, businesses can navigate these turbulent times and emerge stronger in the face of adversity.

UKHospitality Summer Conference 2024

Thursday 13th June 09:30 – 19:30

Hilton London Bankside