Establishing a research agenda for the management of ageism in the hospitality industry: perspectives for Northern Ireland

Exploring a research agenda for the management of ageism in the hospitality Industry in Ireland AbstractRecent developments in the composition of hospitality labour markets in Europe, has renewed interest in the management of diversity in the sector. McNair (2007) found that hospitality firms have a workforce age profile heavily skewed towards young people. Traditionally, older workers have been considered less productive or entrepreneurial than younger workers and many organisations have shown little disposition to capitalise on the acknowledged benefits which older workers can offer (Lucas, 1993). This paper seeks to explore the question: ‘what challenges does managing an ageing workforce create for the hospitality industry in Ireland? and draws on lessons from best practice in other industries such as retail. Few studies examine the link between labour shortages in the hospitality sector and the uptake of available ageing labour supply. Research issues raised by the increasingly older workforce are discussed in relation to human resource management, customer service and skills development for the industry. The paper also highlights the over arching importance of the hospitality sector in relation to wider economic and social policy issues in regard to an ageing labour market. A possible research agenda is outlined as the basis for future analysis of this important but sensitive area.