Recruitment is the biggest problem facing hospitality companies, with the hotel sector suffering most acutely, according to research by purchasing consortium Beacon.

The survey of more than 2,000 hotels, bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs, found that 78% of companies are experiencing difficulties in fulfilling positions.

It found that 82% of hotels reported problems compared with 76% of bars, restaurants and clubs and 74% of other leisure operators such as golf clubs and leisure centres.

More than a third of businesses felt a lack of appropriate skills due to the staff shortage was affecting the performance of their businesses.

John Vinuesa, director of Beacon, says: “The industry needs to do more to promote the sector to ensure businesses attract and retain high-quality recruits.”

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