TUCO’s annual winter conference, held this year at at the University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow, also addressed how an ethical approach to business could be the “key to success”.
Speakers included representatives from Unilever and Glasgow Caledonian University’s School for Business and Society, whose Dr Bernadette Scott highlighted concerns around graduate recruitment and retention.
Scott stressed the importance of engaging with ‘Generation Y’ through social media and creating flexible employment packages to help fill hospitality roles over the next five years.
Wendy Duncan, research & development technical manager at Unilever, discussed the Courtauld 2025 agreement and how businesses can meet sustainable objectives.
A sustainable approach to business was also stressed by Billy Miller, owner and managing director of Coffee Conscience, who talked about initiatives such as the Green Bean to Cup scheme, with Edinburgh college among the first in the UK to roast fresh coffee beans on site.
Matt White, chair of TUCO, said: “There are a number of key issues facing the sector at present, which we wanted to address at this year’s conference and share strategies to overcome.
"While Brexit talks continue apace, and many employees face the unknown, never has it been more important to discuss how to maintain a quality and robust offer, in order to retain staff and gain a competitive edge.
“Good ethics and business values are something very close to our hearts at TUCO. We believe that these are the bedrock of any business and we hope our conference discussions not only inspired members but gave them the confidence to implement best practice when it comes to nurturing employees and running a sustainable business.”