Whitbread Announces 1,500 Job Cuts in UK Amid Restaurant Closures and Hotel Expansion

The hospitality giant plans to close over 100 restaurants to focus on growing its Premier Inn hotel business, aiming to add 3,500 new rooms by 2029.

Whitbread, owner of Premier Inn, will cut 1,500 jobs and close more than 100 restaurants as part of a strategic shift towards hotel expansion.
The company reported a loss before tax but expects future profit increases from the hotel business starting FY27.
Whitbread aims to convert existing restaurant spaces into new hotel rooms, enhancing its service offerings and operational efficiencies.
Despite job cuts, Whitbread is committed to finding alternative roles for affected employees and plans to continue annual hiring to support its growth.
The company’s shares experienced a slight decline following the announcement, reflecting market reactions to the restructuring plans.