WineGB launches new Hiring Toolkit as industry workforce surges
The UK wine industry now employs 3,300 full-time equivalent roles, up more than 40% since 2023. A new Hiring Toolkit aims to help producers recruit and retain staff as the sector continues to expand.
Guidance for a growing workforce
WineGB has launched a new Hiring Toolkit to support recruitment across the UK’s vineyards and wineries. The resource, unveiled during National Inclusion Week, is the third in a series of guidance documents designed to promote best practice in the industry.
The toolkit provides templates, checklists, policies, staff retention tips, and case studies on hiring and inclusion. It also contains research on recruitment trends and is particularly aimed at smaller producers without HR teams or time to develop such resources.
Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB, said: “With the numbers of employees increasing rapidly in our sector, and even more expected growth, we are helping the sector with the toolkit. We are particularly mindful of the additional workload recruitment can create, especially at a time of growth within our industry. Many wineries are starting harvest right now and employing extra staff, so it’s crucial that we provide all the essential help we can.”
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Employment growth
Figures from WineGB show that the UK wine sector now has 3,300 full-time equivalent (FTE) roles, compared with 2,300 in 2023 – a rise of more than 40%. Recruitment in hospitality has seen the biggest increase, while seasonal temporary positions have jumped by 56%, from 8,300 in 2023 to 13,000 this year.
Looking ahead, 90% of respondents to WineGB’s Industry Survey expect to expand their workforce by 2028, with a projected 21% rise in FTE roles. By 2040, modelling suggests the industry could employ around 30,000 people.
Part of a wider strategy
The Hiring Toolkit follows WineGB’s Safeguarding and Welfare Toolkit, launched in 2024, and the creation of the EDI Hub, which promotes equity, diversity and inclusion in the wine sector. WineGB also released a Sustainable Packaging Toolkit earlier this year and is extending its SWGB certification programme to include standards on people.
WineGB represents around 500 grower and producer members, covering 70% of UK hectarage.
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