New figures released by the British Chambers of Commerce have revealed that the number of businesses struggling to recruit staff is rising significantly, with issues in the service and manufacturing sectors in particular at record levels. The data, which found that 9 in 10 hospitality firms in the UK struggle to find staff, was drawn from the British Chamber of Commerce’s Quarterly Recruitment Outlook.
Paul Slevin, President of Chambers Wales, said:
“Our own Quarterly Economic Survey results in Wales echo the wider national concerns regarding recruitment in the UK. Over half of Welsh businesses have attempted to recruit over the last three months, with almost 84% experiencing difficulties finding suitable, skilled staff.
“For hospitality, lockdown restrictions combined with furlough has seen thousands of employees leave the sector, leading to the staff shortages and challenges attracting new people that we are experiencing now. From discussions with businesses and events we have facilitated, there is an understanding that perceptions of the industry must change to demonstrate the rewarding career paths and development available.”
Hannah Elliott, Group Talent and Development Director at The Celtic Collection, said:
“We are very much experiencing the recruitment challenges that are affecting the hospitality sector throughout the UK. The effects of both Covid and Brexit have seen many people leave the hospitality industry in this country and replacing them is proving a tough job for all of us.
“We have been busier than ever since emerging from lockdown earlier this year and we are also in an exciting time of growth as we expand The Celtic Collection, with The Parkgate Hotel opening in Cardiff this month and two new Ty hotels opening in Milford Haven and Newport next year.
“This all means we are currently recruiting for more than 300 vacancies. These are more than just jobs, they are exciting opportunities to grow a career because we are committed to the development of our people, with extensive training programmes and structured pathways to progress in the business, as well as very attractive benefits for all employees. There has never been a better time to take that first step on a rewarding new journey in hospitality.”
