A recent YouGov report reveals that 76% of UK hospitality workers are not worried about job automation in the future. The Feedback from the Field report, commissioned by global technology company SafetyCulture, illustrates a hospitality workforce that views the integration of technology positively, particularly in comparison to other frontline industries.
Only 28% of hospitality workers express concern about new technologies like AI, with many seeing increased automation as a means to alleviate frustrations with current tools in the sector. However, over half (53%) of these workers are not wholly satisfied with their workplace tools and IT; nearly half (46%) consider them outdated, while 40% find them unsuitable for their needs.
The report also indicates that automation could help address skills and labor shortages, with 63% of hospitality workers believing these shortages will pose significant challenges for the industry. Among these, 42% feel that these challenges are already critical, marking the sector as the most affected compared to other UK frontline industries.
There is a noted generational divide regarding concerns over automation, as 25% of Gen Z and 24% of Millennial workers are worried about its impact on their roles, contrasted with just 10% of Baby Boomers.
Alex Brooks-Sykes, SafetyCulture’s UK and Ireland lead, commented, “It’s encouraging to see such optimism regarding automation among frontline employees, often viewed negatively. Our research indicates that outdated and unsuitable tools cost the hospitality industry more than £1.11 billion annually.
“Improved technology benefits frontline workers, enhancing efficiency, risk management, and training. While hospitality relies heavily on human interaction, a combined investment in people and technology can yield powerful results.”
