01 December 2023

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is pleased to share the details of the State of the Workforce 2023 report, providing insights into the changing skills and labour market trends across the UK visitor economy sector.

This comprehensive research, conducted by People 1st International, sheds light on the critical staffing issues facing the sector, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced investment in employee retention and development strategies.

Key findings from the report include:

  • Unrelenting Recruitment Challenges: A staggering 84% of employers reported facing difficulties in filling vacancies over the past year, reflecting the intensifying competition for skilled talent.
  • High Employee Turnover: Employee retention remains a significant concern, with 84% of employers acknowledging challenges in retaining staff. Some businesses reported annual turnover rates as high as 75%, highlighting the need for effective retention strategies.
  • Skills Gap Widening: Despite efforts to bridge the skills gap, only 37% of employers believe their training and development initiatives adequately meet the evolving skills needs of their workforce. This gap hinders business growth and productivity.63% of employers do not believe the training and development opportunities they offer fully meet the skills needs of employees

The report underscores the importance of prioritising leadership and management skills development, empowering businesses to recruit, retain, and develop their workforce more effectively. Additionally, addressing the skills gap is crucial to fostering an internationally competitive visitor economy sector.

To help employers navigate these challenges, the report provides valuable insights and practical recommendations, including:

  • Investing in employee development: Businesses should prioritise comprehensive training and development programs that align with industry needs and employee aspirations.
  • Enhancing employee engagement: Fostering a positive and supportive work environment can significantly improve employee satisfaction and reduce turnover rates.
  • Embrace technology: Leveraging technology for recruitment, training, and employee management can streamline processes and enhance engagement.

Download the reports here

Bira encourages all members to access the State of the Workforce 2023 report, empowering them to make informed decisions and navigate the evolving skills landscape within the UK visitor economy sector.