Business department reveals "first ever" hospitality strategy set to return sector to profitability

The government has today revealed a new strategy to support the hospitality sector in the aftermath of the pandemic.

The Hospitality Strategy, unveiled by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy today (July 16), will extend outdoor and pavement dining licenses, as well as continue to allow the sale of takeaway pints for an additional 12 months.

Another measure introduced by the strategy will be a system to highlight opportunities in the hospitality sector to jobseekers, helping the industry tackle recruitment challenges.

The government said that the new measures will boost confidence for both businesses and customers and help the sector return to profitability, focusing on reopening, recovery and resilience.

The announcement marks the government’s first ever strategy for the hospitality industry, being overseen by a new Hospitality Sector Council made up of industry leaders and government.

Paul Scully, business minister, commented: “The pandemic has meant we’ve had to stay apart, and this has had a big impact on the hospitality industry, which exists to bring people together.

“We’ve been working with hospitality businesses throughout the pandemic to understand what support they need to not only reopen, but change and improve how they do things to meet changing consumer demands and protect jobs and livelihoods.

“We want young people to see the hospitality sector as a go-to option for long-term careers, and that’s why we will explore new options for vocational training and help further boost the creativity and environmental friendliness of the sector through the first-ever government strategy for the hospitality industry.”

Karen Jones, entrepreneur and Hospitality Sector Council co-chair, said: “I think the last 16 months has shown us many things, underlining the importance of our people and our teams and the key role hospitality has to play in lighting up our high streets and city centres.

“We need to capitalise on the energy, creativity and innovation that will be released post-pandemic to continue our creation of a world-class hospitality sector: this strategy will aid in making that a reality.

“I am honoured to be co-chair alongside Minister Scully and will work with a will with hospitality and government colleagues to put in place all our wonderful industry needs to flourish.”

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