SCHAUMBURG, Ill. (June 20, 2025) – A growing number of restaurant and hospitality operators are shifting their workforce strategies to focus on long-term talent development, and the data backs them up. According to recent research by the National Restaurant Association, nearly 30% of restaurant operators plan to increase investments in workforce development and employee benefits in 2025.

Cross-training and upskilling are gaining traction as key tactics for increasing profitability and resilience. In fact, 48% of operators reported expanding cross-training efforts in the past year—making it the second most popular cost-control strategy, just behind raising menu prices.

“As labor costs rise and global pressures continue, forward-thinking hospitality leaders are realizing that building skills from within isn’t just smart—it’s strategic,” said Nicole Bertelli, director of partnerships for Auguste Escoffier Global Solutions. “Investing in education helps operators boost employee engagement and improve operational efficiency, all while enhancing their brand reputation.”

Avoiding Burnout: Why Flexibility Is Key

Hospitality professionals are more likely than the average U.S. worker to balance both school and work. Roughly 27% of food and beverage workers are enrolled in school while employed, compared to just 10% in the broader workforce. In such a high-pressure industry, this can quickly lead to burnout.

“That’s why it’s important to offer education benefits that are designed for working professionals,” added Bertelli. Escoffier Global offers solutions that are built to fit into employees’ real lives—without requiring a leave of absence or relocation. Programs like Work & Learn allow employees to pursue degrees or diplomas at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts while staying on the job. Courses are available online or in person at campuses in Boulder, Colo., and Austin, Texas.

Employees can immediately apply what they learn to their day-to-day roles, allowing employers to see direct value from educational support.

“We’ve designed our programs with working professionals in mind,” Bertelli said. “Whether it’s flexible online learning or quick, just-in-time training through our ESource platform, we meet employees where they are—so they can grow their skills without sacrificing their jobs or well-being.”

Meeting the Moment: Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

As operators continue to navigate staffing challenges, a strong education benefit can help employers stand out. From hiring and onboarding to culture and career growth, job seekers are evaluating the full employment experience—not just the paycheck.

In addition to Work & Learn, Escoffier Global’s solutions include:

• ESource: On-demand hospitality training with micro-courses and skill refreshers
  
   
• EConnect: A complimentary job board connecting businesses with qualified culinary externs and alumni
  
   
• Custom Consulting: Tailored development plans and learning tools for restaurant groups, hotels, and hospitality brands
  
   

Hospitality employers interested in exploring partnerships or creating custom training solutions can connect with the Escoffier Global team for more information.