A new report from The Caterer has found that the over 50’s age group accounts for 25% of the 2.2 million workers in UK hospitality.

Since 2019, around 200,000 international workers have left the sector, resulting in the hospitality sector having to hire from less traditional talent pools. The Caterer’s Hospitality Hiring Insider Report analysed job adverts and surveyed 600 professionals in September 2022. The report found that 25% of employers believe workers in the over 50’s age group will help solve this labour shortage and that as the cost of living rises, they have had to take on jobs in pubs, restaurants and hotels in order to boost their retirement income.

The majority (27%) of over 50’s in this industry occupy General Management roles, 24% carry out front of house duties and 23% have taken on chef related roles.

Employers believe there are huge advantages to employing this section of the workforce, with 71% believing that greater experience is the best characteristic the over 50’s can bring to their workplace. They also feel they have more resilience, better punctuality and attendance, a stronger work ethic and are more loyal.

Kathy Dyball, Director at Caterer.com commented:

“Brexit, the pandemic, and the cost of living crisis have combined to bring about the most dramatic transformation our sector’s workforce has ever seen. While it will take time to address long-established labour shortages, it’s encouraging to see employers broadening the range of candidates they’re targeting. Workers over 50 are hugely valued by the hospitality industry and we need to do more to highlight the vast range of roles available that can suit people of any working age.”

Luke Price, Senior Evidence Manager for Work at Centre for Ageing Better added: 

“Recruiting inclusively benefits everyone, including older workers who have much to bring all sectors of the economy including hospitality. Research has shown that firms with a 10% or higher share of workers over 50 are more productive, and older workers tend to stay in a job for longer, take fewer sick days, and bring extensive skills and experiences. Since people aged 50+ constitute almost a third of the current workforce, inclusive employers are more likely to reap the benefits of this large talent pool.”