Hospitality staff shortage: Buzzworks offers £20,000 bonus pot for chef referrals

Buzzworks has released a bonus pot of £20,000 for staff referrals in a bid to tackle the ongoing hospitality recruitment crisis.

The restaurant and bar group, which has 12 sites across Scotland, said it was struggling to fill almost 50 chef vacancies.

It is offering monetary bonuses to any customers or staff who refer a successful candidate who stays with the business for at least three months. The bonuses range from £200 for a commis chef to £750 for a head chef.

The reward is doubled to £1,500 for anyone who helps find staff for its upcoming opening the Bridge Inn Linlithgow.

Hospitality venues across the country have been forced to close venues, reduce opening hours and refuse bookings due to shortages of staff.

"We [have] new venues on the horizon but desperately need to match new recruits to our current vacancies in Ayrshire, Renfrewshire and West Lothian in order for us all to thrive," said Trevor Garden, chef-director at Buzzworks.

"Whether you know a college graduate keen for their first step on the ladder, an established chef looking to thrive in a new environment or a novice in the kitchen seeking a complete career change – we'd love to hear from them."

Buzzworks currently employs over 500 staff and owns brands including Scotts, House, Lido & Vic's, the Vine and the Duke.

The company said it offers flexible working with four-day weeks and paid overtime. Staff receive equal share of tips, 40% discount on all food menus and access to a company wellbeing fund and health club.

Job candidates must specify the friend or family member referring them when they apply, who will then receive a cash bonus once they complete a three-month probation.

Interested chefs should visit www.belongatbuzzworks.com