UK Hospitality Conference Highlights Recovery and Resilience
UK Hospitality Conference Highlights Recovery and Resilience
Key Takeaways
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The UK Hospitality Conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers and operators under the theme “Recovery & Beyond”.
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Government ministers acknowledged the sector’s role in driving economic recovery.
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Calls were made for permanent VAT reductions to support hospitality and tourism.
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Insights highlighted opportunities for suburban venues, premiumisation and hybrid working trends.
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Staff shortages and supply disruption remain significant challenges, but optimism is strong.
A Conference Focused on Recovery
The UK Hospitality annual conference gathered a broad range of leaders, from business executives to policymakers, to discuss the future of the industry after the pandemic. Speakers included Hospitality Minister Paul Scully MP, Ian King of Sky News, Karl Chessell of CGA, Alex Robinson of STR, and sector leaders from IHG, Greene King, Compass Group, Parkdean Resorts and UKHospitality.
Under the theme of “Recovery & Beyond”, the conference focused on both the challenges that remain and the opportunities that can help hospitality build back stronger.
Government Engagement
Hospitality Minister Paul Scully MP emphasised the government’s commitment to ongoing dialogue with the sector, recognising that its recovery is essential to the wider economy. He cited the government’s Hospitality Strategy as a blueprint for long-term cooperation between government and business.
Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UK Hospitality, called for a permanent reduction in VAT for hospitality and tourism to safeguard recovery and build resilience. She noted that while support so far has been vital, additional measures are required to protect jobs and businesses.
Economic and Market Insights
Ian King provided an economic overview, explaining that the current recovery is different from 2008 because business and household balance sheets are stronger. CGA and STR offered further insights, highlighting opportunities in suburban markets, where hybrid working is increasing demand for premium experiences closer to home.
The hotel market has shown signs of recovery, though challenges remain for London’s full return to pre-pandemic levels.
Ongoing Challenges and Optimism
The conference also acknowledged the ongoing difficulties. Staff shortages, supply chain disruptions and rising costs continue to affect businesses. Yet the panel discussion reflected a sense of optimism, with leaders looking ahead to growth, innovation and long-term resilience.
Kate Nicholls highlighted that over the past 18 months, hospitality lost two-thirds of its revenue, 10% of its businesses and nearly 30% of its workforce. However, she also stressed that government support had prevented even worse outcomes and provided a foundation for rebuilding.
How to Strengthen Recovery in Hospitality
For businesses navigating recovery, there are practical steps that can support resilience:
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Review cost management strategies and seek operational efficiencies.
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Invest in staff recruitment and retention to rebuild workforce capacity.
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Explore suburban and regional opportunities aligned with hybrid working.
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Embrace technology to improve efficiency and customer experience.
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Partner with specialist recruitment agencies to secure the talent needed for growth.
FAQs
Why was the conference important for hospitality?
It brought together government, industry leaders and operators to align strategies for recovery and resilience.
What government support is being requested?
Hospitality leaders are calling for a permanent reduction in VAT for hospitality and tourism.
What opportunities exist post-pandemic?
Suburban venues and premium experiences are growing, supported by hybrid working and changes in consumer behaviour.
What challenges remain?
Staff shortages, supply disruption, and rebuilding consumer confidence continue to impact the sector.
Work with KSB Recruitment
As the hospitality industry rebuilds, recruitment and staffing remain central challenges. At KSB Recruitment, we have over 30 years of experience supporting hotels, restaurants and catering businesses to recruit skilled chefs, catering staff and managers.
If you need support to rebuild your team or are seeking your next role in hospitality, we can help.
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