Hospitality in 2026: Trends, Opportunities, and Careers in North Devon

The hospitality industry in North Devon is evolving rapidly, and 2026 promises to be an exciting year for both professionals and employers. From boutique hotels and award-winning restaurants to pubs, resorts, and event venues, there has never been a better time to explore a career in hospitality or grow your team.

At Quartz Recruitment, we’re proud to support candidates and employers across the sector, connecting skilled professionals with opportunities that suit their experience, ambitions, and lifestyle.

Key Hospitality Trends for 2026

1. Career Growth and Upskilling

Hospitality professionals increasingly value roles that offer clear career pathways and opportunities for development. Chefs, front-of-house staff, and management teams are seeking workplaces that provide training, mentorship, and leadership progression. Investing in staff development is a win-win: it boosts retention and elevates the quality of service across venues.

2. Work-Life Balance and Wellbeing

Mental health and wellbeing remain a top priority in 2026. Flexible schedules, structured leave, and supportive workplace cultures are essential for attracting and retaining the best talent. Professionals are looking for roles where they can thrive without compromising their health, and employers who embrace this approach are seeing stronger, more loyal teams.

3. Sustainability and Local Sourcing

North Devon venues are increasingly prioritising sustainable practices and locally sourced ingredients. Guests are looking for dining experiences that reflect environmental responsibility, and chefs and hospitality staff want to work in kitchens that share their values. Sustainability is no longer just a trend — it’s becoming a standard expectation across the sector.

4. Technology and Innovation

From digital booking platforms to smart kitchen equipment, technology continues to shape hospitality in 2026. Professionals who can adapt to new tools and integrate them into their workflow are highly valued. This applies across the sector — in kitchens, front-of-house, management, and operational roles.

Opportunities Across the Sector

The hospitality industry in North Devon offers a wide range of career options:

• Kitchen roles: Sous Chefs, Chef de Partie, Commis Chefs, Pastry Chefs

• Front-of-House roles: Supervisors, Restaurant Managers, Bar Managers, Event Coordinators

• Support and Operations: Housekeeping, Reception, Concierge, Kitchen Porters

• Specialist and Leadership roles: Banqueting Managers, Sommeliers, HR and Operations Managers

Whether you’re a professional looking to take the next step in your career or an employer seeking talented staff, Quartz Recruitment has the local knowledge and connections to match the right people with the right roles.

Why Work with Quartz Recruitment

At Quartz Recruitment, we go beyond simply filling vacancies:

• Local expertise: Over 35 years of knowledge in North Devon hospitality recruitment

• Career guidance: Personalised advice for candidates at every level

• Long-term matches: We connect skilled professionals with venues that value reliability, creativity, and growth

For employers, we provide access to pre-vetted candidates, market insights, and recruitment strategies that help build strong, sustainable teams.

Looking Ahead

Hospitality in North Devon is full of opportunity in 2026. Whether you’re exploring a role in the kitchen, front-of-house, or management, now is the time to consider your next move. With Quartz Recruitment’s expertise and local connections, professionals can find rewarding positions, and employers can build teams that deliver exceptional experiences.

📩 Get in touch with Quartz Recruitment today to explore hospitality roles or find the perfect candidates for your team. Make 2026 a year of growth, opportunity, and success in North Devon’s hospitality sector.