25th March 2010
Government survey shows skills gap in hospitality industry

According to a Government survey, published by the UK Commission for Education and Skills, 93% of the UK workforce are proficient at their jobs. However, experts have warned against complacency and that employers would need to expect from, and invest more in, their staff.

The report also claims that the skills gap in the hospitality industry is wider than in other parts of the UK market.

Commenting on these findings, Martin-Christian Kent, director of policy and research at People 1st, said:

"A quarter of sector employers are reporting skills gaps compared to 19% across the economy as a whole. We know that these are mainly management and leadership, customer service and chef skills."

With the Olympic and Paralympic Games fast approaching, there have been calls for the hospitality industry to address the skills gap and increase training where necessary.

However, the report highlights a number of positives, including the current level of training being given. The research suggests that employers have not cut back on training, and many are also looking at qualifications for staff.

Mark Spilsbury, Chief Economist at the UK Commission for Employment and Skills said:

“If the UK economy is to prosper, employers need create higher-level, higher skilled jobs, as well as demanding more from, and investing more in, their staff.”

See the report in full here.