Star Pubs recruitment data reveals market confidence has returned

• Applications return to pre-covid levels
• Rise in social media applications
• 20% uplift in attendees at managed operator pub Discovery Days

Star Pubs’ first quarter recruitment data reveals confidence the pub market has returned to pre-covid levels for the first time since the pandemic.  The company has seen traffic on its recruitment website increase by 63% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023 helped by its latest advertising campaign, and applications rise by 19%.

Social media applications are on the rise with Facebook followed by Instagram proving most popular with potential licensees and pub operators.

Interest in taking on Star Pubs’ Just Add Talent managed operator pubs, which are low cost and lower risk, is particularly high, up 49% year on year, with a greater number of applicants coming from the wider hospitality industry.  And attendance at Just Add Talent Discovery Days is up 20% on 2023.  The days are formatted to give attendees an in-depth understanding and experience of the managed operator model, rather than focused on recruiting for a specific vacancy.  

Hance McPherson, Head of Licensee Attraction for Star Pubs says: “Covid, inflation and recruitment challenges have constrained growth in pub applications.  Despite four years of testing trading, turnover at most pubs has held up well, though profits have been dented by inflation.  As inflationary pressures ease, we should see a return to less challenging trading conditions. Our latest recruitment figures reflect this positive outlook. They show a shift in mood and a return to something like pre-pandemic levels of confidence, helped by easing inflation and energy costs.”