How Will the Gig Economy Disrupt the F&B Industry? by Brandon Wise, VP Sourcing and Strategic Partnerships, Sage Hospitality Group

How Will the Gig Economy Disrupt the F&B Industry?

It’s no secret that the hospitality industry has suffered greatly since March of 2020. From national chains and independent restaurants to suppliers and distributors, the entire food and beverage industry is reeling from the effects of the pandemic. One thing that has become clear is that we are at a pivotal point when it comes to the talent, hiring and labor. The next few years mark a crossroads as the gig economy picks up momentum. It’s proven to be a paradigm-shifting, disruptive force in other industries, such as ride sharing or grocery delivery, and we seem to be heading in that direction as well. We’ve all been solving one crisis after another for close to two years and we’re doing it with far less support than we’re used to. When headcount is reduced, permanently or temporarily, bringing on short term or project-based support may be the only viable way to keep moving forward. One tactic many have found to be effective is bringing in “mercenaries” to help get through some of the toughest times. From hiring freelance chefs, mixologists or managers, businesses are becoming much more open to creative ways of staffing using emerging digital platforms. For many years one of the hardest roles to fill in a restaurant or hotel has been dishwashers and stewards. It’s one of the hardest jobs around, not to mention one of the most thankless, and it historically hasn’t been one of the highest paid. But in an economy based on supply and demand, a role that’s in such short supply and such high demand has the potential to become one of the higher paid positions in the business.

Brandon Wise

VP Sourcing and Strategic Partnerships Sage Hospitality Group

Good dishwashers are hard to find — so are good managers, chefs, bartenders, marketing leaders, content creators and hospitality experts. And in the new era of tech and remote work, these roles might just be a perfect fit for freelancers. One thing is certain, the gig economy is here to stay. It will find a way into just about every industry; and with the hospitality industry on the heels of a pandemic, it could be a perfect opportunity to explore the virtues. I hope to see operators and suppliers increasingly open to bringing in outside talent, fresh perspectives and new ideas. I’m enthusiastic about creators and under-represented segments being valued at their true worth. After more than 25 years in the business, I continue to learn, be humbled and appreciate the wonders of the industry I’ve dedicated my professional life to. I can’t wait to see how we will adapt to the rapidly changing landscape and how new ways of working might lead us to a more sustainable future.