Pub employment key to robust UK economy, says Stonegate chair

At a time when political concerns were focused on the purchase of General Motors by a French car maker and the impact on jobs, Ian Payne, chairman of Stonegate pub company, was keen to highlight the contribution the pub and bar sector makes to UK employment.

Speaking at the event organised by the Perceptions Group to mark National Apprenticeship Week, Payne said: “General Motors employs 4,500 people at one plant in Luton. We employ 13,000 as one company, and the hospitality sector employs 1.5m people – that’s how big we are and we should never forget how important our jobs are to the UK’s industry and economy.”

He said there needed to be greater recognition of the career opportunities available in the hospitality sector: “I started my life behind a bar and I refute the argument that a job in this industry is not a proper job. This industry offers better career opportunities than any other in the UK.

“In 2016, one in eight of all new jobs was created in this industry – that’s an amazing statistic.

"Eating and drinking out is the third largest employer in the private sector – that’s how important we are. We honestly believe in developing people and giving them the opportunity to succeed.”

The showcase attracted strong interest from politicians, with four Government ministers and 64 MPs joining more than 100 young apprentices and industry representatives to learn more about the opportunities available.

Pubs minister Andrew Percy MP, acknowledged the opportunities available: “This industry offers a range of brilliant jobs that contribute to the UK economy.”

It was time, he added, for the industry to make a case to various groups – especially parents – to consider it as a career choice. “It’s a good industry to get into and to make a career in.”

The Licensed Trade Charity was also on hand to reinforce the support it can offer to people looking for a career in the sector. Liz Gaffer, director of marketing and charity service, said: “The LTC provides grants to support people embarking on education or training who are looking to secure themselves a job. The charity can help with both associated costs, like course materials, as well as personal issues they might be facing, such as housing.

“Everyone considered needs to be the child of someone who has worked in the trade for at least five years, or have worked in the trade themselves for five years or more.”