Word count: 3000 words
Objectives to cover:
Introduction – The UK hospitality industry spans food services, accommodations, recreation, and entertainment, contributing significantly to the economy.
Economic Importance – The sector generates £93 billion, employs 3.5 million people, and contributes £54 billion in tax revenues.
Post-Pandemic Challenges – Hospitality businesses continue to recover from the pandemic, facing financial pressures and operational difficulties.
Energy Price Hikes – Thousands of businesses are set to face steep energy cost increases after support ends in April 2024.
Labour Shortages – Workforce gaps impact sales, prompting calls for short-term immigration reforms to ease hiring challenges.
Government Support Needs – Industry leaders stress the urgency of policy changes, including reducing the Immigration Skills Charge and adjusting student work limits.
AI Integration – Artificial intelligence is being explored to enhance efficiency, customer experience, and operational effectiveness.
Limitations of AI – While AI helps address staffing gaps, it cannot fully replace human labour, making targeted interventions necessary.
Conclusion – To ensure long-term resilience and growth, the sector requires government support, investment, and AI-driven innovation.
Reference: APA style