The analysis, based on a survey of hundreds of hospitality operators, found 80% reported needing front-of-house staff and 85% of those surveyed needed more chefs. The survey suggests a current vacancy rate across the sector of 9% - which implies a shortage of 188,000 workers.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “The Government must restore confidence in the hospitality sector so that it is again seen as a stable employer and provider of fulfilling careers.
“To facilitate this, it must stick to the re-opening roadmap, lifting all restrictions from 21st June. This will restore consumer confidence and give a strong signal to workers that hospitality will bounce back strongly. Beyond this, the single biggest act of support that Government could give would be to encourage more UK-based workers to join the hospitality sector.
“It is also time for the Government to review its list of shortage occupations and consider the introduction of an Australian-style visa scheme to enable the workers we need, who don’t meet the point-based system, to come and work here.
“The hospitality industry has invested heavily to ensure venues are safe places to visit and work. By lifting restrictions on the 21st June and with support, we can get back to what we do best - and power the engine of our economic and social recovery.”