The latest Caterer.com Hospitality Hiring Insight found more than 130,000 over 50s are working in the sector to boost their pension savings. Over 50’s in hospitality tend to occupy general management (27%), front of house (24%) and chef-related (23%) roles.  

Employers believe greater experience (71%) is the best characteristic over 50‘s can bring to their workplace as well as better punctuality (62%), a strong work ethic (59%) and loyalty (52%). According to the report, two thirds (67%) of hospitality professionals believe the labour shortages and decline in international workers is encouraging hospitality businesses be more creative in how they hire workers from the UK.   

Kathy Dyball, director at Caterer.com, said: “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.

“Jobs in hospitality offer tremendous flexibility, a secure income, and can be truly rewarding. We encourage employers to review all stages of their hiring process, from job adverts to employee benefits, to ensure they consider applicants of all ages equally. The team at Caterer.com are expert at working with employers to reach and engage candidates in a wide range of talent pools, using our advice tools and performance products.”

The full Caterer.com Hospitality Hiring Insider can be found at: www.caterer.com/recruiters/hospitality-hiring-insider-2022.