The UK’s Largest Hospitality Salary Survey 2025 involved over 500 hospitality workers across a range of roles and seniority levels. It also found fewer employees believe they have a good work/life balance with 56% saying they did, down from 59% last year.

The percentage of respondents who think they’ll still be working for the same company in 12 months’ time has stayed relatively stable at 60%, compared with 62% in 2024, which suggests that few are planning a job move.

The survey reveals that compared with last year employees are placing a higher importance on working with great people as the main thing to keep them in their role, followed by a supportive management team.

The importance of training was also highlighted, with 35% of respondents saying they received some training but didn’t consider it enough to help them feel confident in their role.

The use of technology was seen as a positive in the work environment with 49% saying it improved their job satisfaction and 66% reporting that technology had made their daily tasks easier, or much easier. When it comes to AI in the workplace, the majority (41%) of respondents viewed it as a helpful tool in their job.

Anthony Tattersall, general manager of hospitality at Access, said: “This year’s Salary Survey paints a concerning picture for the hospitality sector. It highlights that employees are facing increased challenges, with many key results moving in a negative direction compared to previous years.

“While this is disappointing, it’s not entirely unexpected. The sector is under immense pressure, especially with impending changes to National Insurance Contributions and the Minimum Wage.”