'A stepping stone' with 'limited career prospects': why are teenagers turning their backs on the hospitality industry?

Research conducted by HIT Training and Get My First Job has found that more than half of 16-20 year-olds in the UK categorically dismiss the idea of a career in hospitality. 

Almost two thirds of them know what career they would like to pursue, with work experience identified as the biggest influence on their decision. 

• From skills shortage to skills crisis: 97% of young Britons don't consider hospitality as a career option

More than half of respondents would choose an apprenticeship over going to university, an indication that they would be willing to train on the job. 

What the study highlights, according to MD Jill Whittaker, is that the industry needs to do more to promote itself as a viable career option. 

She said: "As professionals within the hospitality industry, we have a duty of care to showcase what a career in hospitality can offer to all ages. The research shows that key influences in the younger generations’ career choices are during school, work experience and the views of their teachers and parents – let’s maximise these opportunities and change perceptions to make sure that when they do consider their future occupation, hospitality is in the running.”

Among the reasons cited by respondents for why they wouldn't consider a career in hospitality were that  jobs in the sector are ‘a stepping stone to another career’,  with ‘limited career prospects,’ more likely to be a ‘a part-time job while studying.’ 

This is despite efforts by the industry, such as the Springboard charity with its FutureChef campaign, the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts' Adopt A School initiative, and the Food Teachers' Centre's many efforts to build a strong culinary curriculum for students in the UK. 

While some have blamed government funding cuts, others think a shift in young peoples' mentality and work ethic are to blame for the shift. 

Why do you think young people aren't attracted to working in hospitality? What more do you think the industry should do to promote the industry?