LONDON – The UK’s coffee trade could be under threat from a nationwide shortage of baristas. Tens of thousands of extra staff will be needed to keep up with Britain’s love of coffee, with curbs on EU immigration likely to damage the industry’s growth.
According to a new report on the UK’s coffee business, shops will need to hire another 40,000 baristas to continue with their plans to expand in the next six years.
With 150,000 of Britain’s coffee baristas coming from abroad, if immigration from European Union countries are cut post-Brexit, the industry may struggle to keep growing, the Times reported.
It would mean the UK economy could take a hit, with coffee shops pumping billions into Britain each year. This year the coffee trade is forecast add £8.9 billion into the UK economy.
The UK Coffee Report from food consultant Allegra Group revealed over 7,000 extra coffee shops are expected to be opened over the next eight years.
By 2030, the number of coffee shops in Britain is expected to be greater than pubs.
The boss of Allegra, Jeffrey Young, told the Times: “Coffee is taking over the nation and with that comes a surge in demand for skilled baristas to keep the lattes flowing.
“Being a barista is a brilliant job that requires a great deal of knowledge and skill. We believe it should be as respected as the top sommeliers at the finest restaurants.”
Francesca Gillett
