The alert has come from industry expert Kasia Krieger, who says a lack of chefs is putting ‘huge pressure’ on restaurants, hotels and catering services to maintain high standards with fewer resources.
She said the shortage was also impacting opening hours, menu offerings, and the restaurant and hospitality industry’s ability to innovate. Pineapple Recruitment is a specialist recruiter for the hospitality and catering sectors.
Krieger, business manager at catering and hospitality jobs firm Pineapple Recruitment, said: “Several factors have contributed to this national chef shortage over the last few years, hence us seeing a real gap in our future talent pipelines.
“The demand for experienced chefs and new talent alike remains robust. But this is also an opportunity – it’s where talented individuals can come to the fore and help encourage and train the next generation in their skills to keep the creativity and trade alive.
“That could be through channels such as lecturing or part-time support, passing on their knowledge and expertise. It’s an ideal opportunity for those experienced chefs looking to give something back, who are looking at less hours or are planning their retirement.”