15.3 Professional education and the new generation of staff
In line with the growing demands for sustainability and technological innovation, the professional education and training of restaurant staff must be re-evaluated. There is a clear need for flexible learning that combines practical knowledge with continuing education, for example through micro-courses, online learning, and blended learning formats that can be adapted to the rapid development of the industry (World Economic Forum, 2024).
Preparing staff for the future requires greater emphasis on teamwork, independence, and technological competence, as new roles such as operations specialists or food science professionals within restaurant settings are becoming increasingly common (Sigurðardóttir, 2023).
Research shows that professionalism in the kitchen is shifting from traditional craftsmanship toward a more data-driven and systematic form of work, where the ability to use data and analytics is becoming just as important as cooking itself (McKinsey & Company, 2023).
At the same time, it is becoming increasingly important for staff to understand ecology, nutrition, and sustainability in order to meet consumer expectations and environmental responsibilities (European Commission, 2022).