Europe’s ageing population: “older” worker employment and HRM responses in the Hospitality Industry

Population ageing will have major implications for everyone in society and is likely to be the most important of all demographic changes for the foreseeable future. Of all regions of the world, Europe will be the most affected by population ageing. These demographic changes will have repercussions for hospitality businesses throughout Europe which have traditionally relied on younger workers. From a business perspective, Europe’s hospitality industry will need to attract “non traditional” employees such as those aged 50 and over. In order to utilise the skills and knowledge of individuals in this group, employers should address issues of age discrimination. This paper will recommend specific Human Resource practices in relation to the employment of older workers.