Compass launches strategy aimed at addressing industry inequalities

Compass Group UK and Ireland has announced The Mission to a Million commitment, a new strategy aimed at “addressing the inequalities that create barriers to progress” in the hospitality sector.

It will see Compass provide support to one million people, from both within and outside the organisation, by 2030 to enhance their opportunities and change their lives through job creation, education, training, community and charitable engagement.

Opportunities will include, providing work through skill development, entry-level schemes and promotions, and outreach to schools and communities to provide access to work placements and opportunities in the hospitality industry.

Compass has also set new targets to improve diversity across the company. The firm is targeting a 50:50 gender split by 2025, while 14% of its employees will be from an ethnic minority background (5% of whom will be Black) by 2027.

Two fifths (40%) of its employees will come from a lower socio-economic background by 2030. The firm has also committed to increasing support, education and placements for people with disabilities.

Robin Mills, managing director, Compass, said: “As an employer of around 45,000 people, we know that we have the ability to make a real difference not only to the lives of our own employees, but also the communities in which we serve. Hospitality is well placed to bring down barriers that exist in relation to social mobility.

“You can join the industry and be trained on the job. We are committed to investing in our employees and also working to support disadvantaged groups. I passionately believe that whatever your background, you should have the opportunity to progress and build a career. I believe our programme is a significant step forward to achieve this”.