The Caterer: Creativity is the Answer

As the third biggest employer in the UK, the hospitality industry accounts for over 3.2m jobs. Recently, however, there has been a dramatic drop in the number of chefs working in the UK, falling by 17% in 2018. In light of this, we have collaborated with The Caterer to conduct the industry survey, to better understand why the industry has such a problem in recruiting and retaining chef talent. As one of the longest-standing hospitality companies in the UK, Searcys is committed to change perceptions and create a work environment that is fresh, engaging and rewarding.

Interestingly, the freedom to express creativity and use good-quality produce were voted as strong pull factors to choose a chef career, coming only marginally below work-life balance and fair pay.

Read the full report here.

The following statistics provide some insights into the hospitality industry.

Industry perception:

56% of over 10 years’ experience said there has been a positive shift in the perceptions of the career

Reasons for joining the industry:

– Opportunity to be creative with food (50%) – this subject was particularly influential among those that have worked in a professional kitchen between one and five years

– 67% of chefs joined the hospitality industry as they have a passion for food

– 50% said they joined because work in the kitchen gives them an opportunity to be creative

– 58% of chefs working between one-five years were particularly influenced by creativity