UK Hospitality Sector salaries fell on average by 10.3% compared to last year. According to the UK’s largest hospitality pay survey 2025, the biggest drop fell by 17% in the hotel sector, according to the UK, KAM Insights and Access Group Hospitality pay survey 2025.
The survey found that the average contract catering salary rose 10% this year, with only sectors rising, with full-service restaurant pay falling 7% and 13.6% in fast food, cafes and food stalls.
The findings show a decline in wages across key roles, except for those at director level who have increased average pay, and chefs whose salaries remain stable. People in front of the house positions report the biggest drop from £24,332 in 2024 to £21,276 in 2025.
Looking at the salary per experience, it reveals a decline at all levels, revealing that people with moderate careers in terms of experience and those with the least impact at the advanced level. By age, people aged 36-54 were most affected by the decline, down from an average of 40,036 pounds in 2024 to 39,133 pounds in 2025.
Salaries are ranked as the most important employee benefits, holiday qualifications, training and development sessions, flexible hours, bonuses/tips, and mentoring, but are also considered important to respondents.
Annual surveys revealed that all benefits are not important to employees, even if they have access. Respondents were more likely to utilize training and development sessions, flexible hours, and team building activities, but fewer access to counseling services, shared parental leave, subsidized gym memberships, or on-site accommodation.
“We are pleased to announce that Anthony Tattersall, General Manager of Hospitality at Access Group,” said: “Employers have to consider the entire package as employees are increasingly looking for more than pay to provide job satisfaction. This year, we have been able to share parental leave with the relative importance of bonuses/tips and the decrease in importance of mentoring, eating out and counseling.
“Hospitality remains a sector built on people, passion and adaptability. The industry must now focus on balancing competitive wages with career growth, culture and innovation. We can invest in sustaining strategies, rethink profits, embrace technology, and ensure that hospitals continue to thrive after 2025.”
For more information, download the survey here
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