There are five main categories within the sector:

• restaurants
• pubs, clubs and bars
• hotels
• contract catering
• hospitality services

Employment in hospitality grew during the last decade and is projected to increase further through to 2010. For several years the hospitality sector has faced chronic recruitment difficulties and vacancies in the sector account for 14% of all vacancies reported to job centres. 

Shortages are predicted in the following occupations:

• chefs
• other kitchen staff
• housekeeping staff

The three top occupational groups in hospitality as a percentage of total employment in the sector are:

• elementary occupations 38.9%
• managers and senior officials 24.8%
• skilled trades occupations 15.7%

More women than men are employed in the hospitality sector and 8% of employees are from minority ethnic groups, but representation varies widely between sub-sectors and occupations so the sector faces several equal opportunities issues.

Qualification, skills gaps and training are major issues for the sector. 

Priorities for action needed in the hospitality sector include:

• improving the image of the industry as an employer 
• increasing employer engagement in relevant learning and development programmes 
• promoting career opportunities into and within the sector

There is considerable research on the hospitality sector including skills needs, workforce development and working conditions.