‘Potentially changing’ the face of restaurants, bars and hotels across the UK, the research by Caterer.com has found hospitality is the most desired career option for over 50s looking for a change.
According to the research on 4,250 consumers and hospitality workers, a quarter of consumers want to be served by employees over 50. Twenty-five percent feel they trust this demographic to take their orders and payment more than their younger counterparts.
Neil Pattison, director at Caterer.com, said: “Our research shows that workers over 50 are among the most valued demographics in the hospitality industry with many customers placing greater trust and confidence in them.
“The hospitality workforce is set to be heavily impacted by the government’s new proposed immigration rules, so many employers are actively reaching new talent pools to find the people they want to hire. Older workers are one such valuable group.”
The industry is a ‘top pick’ for this demographic due to: the flexible shift patterns, the strong social engagement and the positive workplace culture. Forty-eight percent of the workers surveyed also agreed the job role is a great way to keep active.
Patrick Thomson, senior programme manager at the Centre for Ageing Better, added: “With fewer young people entering the workforce and over-50s currently making up nearly a third of all workers, it’s clear that older workers are not just the workforce of the future but of today.
“With many employers worried about skill shortages in the wake of new immigration plans, it’s vital that employers in industries like hospitality are able to make the most of the talent and experience the over-50s can bring to the workplace.”
Caterer.com and Ageing Better have produced guidance for employers to welcome back ‘boomerang’ workers.
The most common roles held by employees aged 50-64 include:
1. General management
2. Chef
3. Kitchen staff / support
4. House keeping
5. Front of house / customer service