Scotland’s hospitality industry is getting a vital boost through a new partnership between social enterprise Hub International and businesses like SimpsInns in Ayrshire.
The Hospitality Hub initiative addresses two key challenges: a growing skills shortage and food poverty. By connecting expert educators with employers, the programme delivers industry-recognised training for young people and career returners across Scotland’s hotels, restaurants, and bars.
With 42% of hospitality businesses in Scotland struggling to fill vacancies (UK Hospitality Workforce Report 2024), and 12.4% of school leavers without a positive destination (Scottish Government, 2024), the initiative is well timed.
SimpsInns, which operates venues including The Gailes Hotel and Old Loans Inn is an early adopter of the scheme. Malcolm Simpson, owner of SimpsInns Group, explains, “At SimpsInns, we’re proud to work with Hub International and support the development of future hospitality talent.
“It’s inspiring to see the enthusiasm, potential, and passion these young people bring to our venues. Giving them hands on experience in real working environments, like The Potting Shed, not only builds their skills and confidence, but also helps strengthen the future of our industry here in Ayrshire.
“We’re committed to championing initiatives like this that invest in local talent and create meaningful pathways into hospitality careers.”
The Hospitality Hubs go beyond kitchen and service skills, focusing also on sustainability and core techniques – including baking, butchery, zero-waste practices, patisserie and cooking nutritious meals from scratch.
These skills help address both employment gaps and food insecurity in communities. Courses are led by expert tutors, including Zoltan Szabo, former Executive Chef at Cameron House Hotel.
Zoltan Szabo said, “It’s incredibly rewarding to see young people flourish through these training hubs. We’re not just teaching recipes — we’re building skills, confidence, and a love for quality hospitality that will stay with them for life.
“Many of my trainees build a passion for the hotel industry, some just want to work locally in bars, restaurants or cafes, so we support their interests and mentor them in to the right role for them.
“This year trainees joined us in the kitchen at The GB & Ireland Michelin Awards keeping the canapés, and just last week at Royal Ascot in the VVIP boxes, they’re getting a wealth of experience and opportunities as they start to earn their first wage.”
Trainees are already finding success in the workplace. Lewis, 20, now works full-time at The Waterside Hotel.
He says, “When I was found by with Hub International I had zero confidence and no idea what I wanted to do with my life; but slowly I was shown how to find my confidence and how to speak about myself positively.
“I had the best time learning during the Skills Hub and was given the opportunity to meet some really good employers. I’m now in full time employment with SimpsInns and I couldn’t be happier, the team at Hub International are the reason, I’m so grateful for everything, they’re amazing people.
“SimpsInns have now taken me in to a career, so I get double the support.”
As the model gains traction, Hub International is looking to expand, partnering with more hospitality businesses who recognise the value in developing talent while supporting their local communities.
Learn more or explore partnership opportunities here.
