Inclusive policies in hospitality demanded by customers, new survey shows

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Almost two-thirds of customers think a venue’s equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) policy is important, according to the latest Future Shock survey by UKHospitality and CGA by NIQ.

The 13th edition of Future Shock focuses on EDI within hospitality, highlighting consumer sentiment on the topic and the work happening across the sector.

The overwhelming majority of consumers responding to the survey were clear that they felt EDI policies were important to them (64%) but only a third said they see venues advertise their work on EDI and accessibility. 

Three in 10 people said they would be more likely to visit a venue if it promoted its EDI policies, demonstrating a significant opportunity for hospitality businesses to showcase their work. 

“Hospitality has always been a people-first business and has a tradition of being one of the most inclusive sectors in the world,” says Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality. 

“I know day-to-day there remains a huge amount taking place to ensure that remains the case and that we continue to enhance our equity, diversity and inclusion credentials.

“These new statistics show that this work is clearly valued by the public and is actually a significant factor in where they choose to visit. It’s encouraging that customers want to see and understand the work we’re doing and is a clear indication to businesses to bring this work to the forefront of their activities.”