Staffing shortages ‘biggest operational concern' for hotel managers

Recruiting new and retaining existing staff are "the biggest challenges" for UK hotel general managers, with 90% recruiting for unfilled positions.

That is according to a survey of nearly 200 UK hotel managers by tax and advisory service EY, which found 28% of UK general managers ranked staffing problems as the biggest challenge, followed by 22% citing cost increases and inability to pass these onto guests.

54% of respondents have seen a decrease in non-UK residents applying for jobs at their hotels since the Brexit vote.

Christian Mole, head of hospitality and leisure for EY, said: "Retaining and attracting staff remains understandably the biggest challenge for hotel general managers and, particularly with Brexit moving closer, a shortage of migrant labour is an overwhelming concern, not only for hotels but the hospitality industry as a whole.

How to…make your people plan for 2019 >>

Red Carnation boss: Industry on the edge of staffing 'carnage' >>

Raymond Blanc's Brasserie Bar Co to 'protect its family' and pay for settled status applications >>