Overview

• Hospitality job postings fell by 25% in June from a year earlier as firms curb vacancies to offset higher National Insurance and living wage bills.
• UKHospitality estimates around 84,000 roles have been cut since last October’s budget raised employers’ NIC contributions from 13.8% to 15% and lowered the payment threshold.
• The British Beer and Pub Association projects 378 pub closures this year, resulting in about 5,600 lost jobs across England, Wales and Scotland.
• Industry leaders warn the downturn threatens traditional entry-level summer jobs for students and signals broader economic risks.
• Trade bodies are calling on the government to roll back NIC hikes, reform business rates and cut VAT to safeguard venues and staff.