Fourth research found the hospitality workforce has shrunk by more than one quarter compared to this time last year. December saw the fewest job losses since May, indicating the furlough scheme is helping to protect jobs.

The data indicates that the number of hours worked across the sector dropped by almost two thirds (63%) in December 2020, against the same month the previous year.

Fourth research, which has been aggregated from analysis over 700 companies across the restaurant, pub, bar and QSR sectors, revealed there were a further 8,591 workers who lost their job in December, bringing the total number of hospitality job losses to roughly 660,000.  

Sebastien Sepierre, Managing Director – EMEA, Fourth, said: “Due to the pandemic, operators continued to suffer very difficult and challenging times in December, when many businesses were shut or running with severe restrictions, and are now faced with another lengthy period of little or no revenue.

“The fact that the number of sector job leavers remained low into December, compared to the spring and summer, is encouraging, as it proves the continued positive impact of the government re-committing to the furlough scheme.

“We anticipate a tough period ahead but, with the vaccine rollout gathering momentum, the end could soon be in sight. It’s important that hospitality businesses are ready for the lifting of restrictions, whenever that may be, and we look forward to supporting our customers and partners back onto their feet.”

To read the full report, visit here.