Warning employment proposals risk higher costs and further pressures

Changes to guaranteed hours offers could undermine flexible arrangements, according to the BBPA, which also said costs from the proposed move will further squeeze already thin margins for pubs and brewers as they continue to battle rising costs.

Furthermore, the organisation said the costs as a result of the changes had the potential to not only undermine growth but could hurt the workers it is meant to benefit if businesses need to restrict job opportunities and hours to mitigate the move.

The trade body has called for a “proportionate” response where employees could request guaranteed hours, which it said would preserve operational flexibility for businesses and choice for staff.

Amazing industry

BBPA CEO Emma McClarkin said: “This sector is only possible because of the brilliant workforce behind it.

“Pubs and brewers want to treat their staff fairly but to do so, they need to be in a position to keep people in those jobs as well as give opportunities to those who want to work in our amazing industry.

“Not only that but we know employees value and appreciate the flexibility of their roles so any changes that stop that might end up backfiring and hurting the people it’s meant to benefit.

“We think a proportionate, request-based system would both help workers and help the sector remain viable and the backbone of the job market.”

Previously raised concerns

Earlier this year (May), operators voiced concerns the proposals risked undermining flexibility and pushing costs up.

A spokesperson for Greene King said flexibility was central the success of hospitality firms while Star Pubs boss Lawson Mountstevens told The Morning Advertiser wider reforms were adding pressure on licensees already facing rocketing costs and regulatory burdens.

Meanwhile, UKHospitality previously warned potential changes to zero-hours contracts could “create barriers” around employing staff.