UKHospitality calls for submissions for commission to promote sector

UKHospitality is calling for evidence as it launches a commission to promote the hospitality sector.

UKHospitality Commission 2030 aims to identify and address the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, and plans to launch a report of its findings in June, providing recommendations to the government to secure the future of the sector's workforce.

The commission will seek to develop effective guidance to promote careers and ensure staff retention in the sector, address the diversity of the sector's workforce, and look at education and skills in hospitality.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: "This is an opportunity for us to bring together sector leaders and policy-makers to promote the great work we do, change perceptions about our industry and to ensure that hospitality businesses are in the best position to succeed decades from now."

The commission is calling for evidence from industry bodies, large businesses, SMEs, employment charities, LEPs, training providers and local councils, and has also developed a separate survey for employees.

Submissions are open until 11 May 2018, with the terms of reference available here and a written evidence template here.

Michael Tomlinson, chair of the APPG Youth Employment, said the commission will "identify the skills that are needed and develop a cohesive plan to offer support and opportunities for young workers".

Mike Wood, chair of the APPG Beer Group, said: "We need to make sure that teenagers who are looking to develop a career in hospitality are aware of the opportunities on offer."

Steve Double, chair of the APPG Visitor Economy, added: "A thorough investigation into the future of the sector's workforce will put us in the best possible position to secure its continued health."

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