Office for National Statistics (ONS) data highlights that over 89,000 jobs have been lost in the hospitality sector in the past year – with thousands of kitchen vacancies left unfilled.
Ms Krieger, business manager at Pineapple Recruitment, commented: “Higher taxes, national insurance and business rates have left hospitality businesses struggling, but many pubs, hotels and restaurants I speak to are banking on the crucial autumn and festive period to bounce back as much as possible.
“A cornerstone of that is permanent chef recruitment as these professional experts can come in and create the best dishes with the best produce. It’s what many under-capacity hospitality businesses need at present as we approach the busy party season. It can help them stand out and build their reputations.
“There are talented chefs out there looking for the right opportunities so I urge the businesses to really start moving now and secure a chef, or a team, who really can make a difference in the long-term. The right chefs, at all levels, are out there in the market and could be a game-changer.”