In response to Labour’s claim that long-term youth unemployment is costing taxpayers more than £180m a year, the industry body has said the Government must show more support for the licensed retail sector which offers valuable opportunities for young people.
The sector creates one in six of all new jobs for 18-24 year olds, with the possibility of onward progression.
Last year, the sector created almost 30,000 jobs for young people, and People 1st – the sector skills organisation for the hospitality sector - predicts this area will need an additional 848,000 workers by 2020, with one in four moving into the pub and bar industry.
Challenge
Anthony Pender, Perceptions Group vice chairman and managing director of Yummy Pub Co, said: “Youth unemployment has always been a challenge for the Government, however there are thousands of jobs out there. More support is needed to help educate and inform students, teachers and careers advisors about vast range of opportunities that exist within this vibrant sector.”
He added: “The misconception arises when people think about pubs and bars - they cannot see further than the part-time, pocket money options. The truth is, a young person can progress quickly, learning all the skills required to run a business and take responsibility for a premises that would typically turnover in excess of £1m.
“We really are an industry that is part of the unemployment solution.”
A new Pub & Bar Careers website will be launching in the coming months highlighting the opportunities available in the sector.
Looking for a job or have a job you want to advertise? Go to the PMA jobsite.