National Waiters Day

The UK’s 180,000 hospitality businesses are a staple of the UK economy, creating 2.9 million jobs, worth an estimated £60bn. Despite this enormous contribution, the sector gets a bad rap, with job roles in the industry considered something to tide participants over, rather than valuable and rewarding careers to pursue.

Why should I get involved?

If you own a thriving hospitality business, you're already challenging this stereotype. Supporting the event encourages other people to get into the industry, celebrating people who have an understanding of, and passion for quality service. High staff turnover cripples small businesses, with the hospitality sector particularly suffering. Analysis from People First blames a 'revolving door' culture, costing the industry an estimated £273m per year. The cost of hiring and training new staff is draining, both on time and finances. The whole customer experience is shaped by your FOH staff, so ensuring employees feel valued and engaged has a huge effect on your profitability potential. If you can help promote the service sector as a viable career choice you’re revealing these roles for their true value.

National Waiters Day also creates a valuable PR opportunity, allowing you to raise your profile as both a hospitality business and an employer. This kind of coverage shows you to be an active member of the community as well as a caring and ethical employer. This perception could give you the edge with quality candidates when looking for your next member of staff.

The regional media traditionally take an interest in local events of this nature. Getting involved could gain you some coverage in the paper and online, reaching out to a broad demographic of potential customers. It also provides an opportunity to increase your social media footprint, with people generating and sharing content with your business's name on.

How can I get involved?

Check what events are running near you and if there aren’t any, why not host one? All you need to do is register your interest on the National Waiters Day website. There are plenty of ideas how to hold a successful an event, including running the waiters race, holding a glass recognition activity and raising money for hospitality charity, Springboard.

All funds raised from the day will help to support Springboard's FAB (Food & Beverage Programme). The programme has been created to inspire and educate students about careers in front of house food and beverage roles.

Promote your involvement on social media using #NWD2017 #BeProud @WaitersDay_UK. The day promises plenty of fun and an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of your business.