Articles

IN 30: Addressing Labour Challenges

By CFIN Newsdesk posted 09-04-2023 08:00

  

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Sometimes, all it takes is 30 minutes to learn the ins and outs of new food technologies and trends that are transforming the food and beverage industry. In this series, we’ll dig into a food innovation topic and link you to the best content and resources so you can become a master on the topic in 30 minutes (or less!).  

 

Finding and retaining skilled workers is an ongoing problem in all sectors of the food industry. As experienced workers retire, food businesses are often struggling to attract younger employees to replace them. And with more companies adding automation, digitization and other food technology, finding workers with the skills and training needed to succeed has become even more challenging. 

 

This week we’re looking at some of the labour issues, opportunities and resources accessible both to food and beverage entrepreneurs looking for talent, and skilled professionals hoping to enter the industry. 

 

The Overview 

 

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s summary of consultations with stakeholders on the development of a National Agriculture Labour Strategy. The report outlines the challenges facing the agriculture and food industries surrounding labour, as well as next steps. 

 

Data from June 2023 suggests labour vacancies in foodservice and manufacturing have decreased, meaning that while there are challenges, skilled workers are out there. 

 

Industries eligible under the scheme include meat product manufacturing, food processing and greenhouse production. 

 

A July 2021 report on challenges of staff shortages in the foodservice industry. 

 

The role of immigration in addressing labour market challenges. 

 

Jeff Hetherington forged a new career through a connection on YODL. 

 

Resources 

 

Ontario's food and beverage processing industry is seeking to increase education, employment opportunities, and access to qualified foreign workers to make up for a shortage of skilled trade workers. 

 

Key insights and labour market research about Canada’s food and beverage processing industry. 

 

A report addressing labour challenges in the Canadian food and beverage manufacturing industry. 

 

Social Media 

 

@FoodGrads – (Facebook) FoodGrads supports students beginning their careers in the food and beverage industry. 

 

Food and Beverage Canada – Aliments et boissons Canada – (LinkedIn) The association advocates for the food and beverage manufacturing industry on many issues, including labour and workforce development. 

 

@jobsthatfeed – (Instagram) – Jobs That Feed connects people to employment in the food industry. 

 

Overtime 

 

If you’ve got more than 30 minutes, these are for you: 

 

A discussion on the industry’s labour gaps. 

 

Spotify The FoodGrads Podcast 

The FoodGrads podcast shares insights from food and beverage professionals at all stages in their careers. 

#labour

#labourchallenges

#Manufacturing

#employment

#jobs

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