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St Andrews Links Trust to cut 30 F&B jobs as pandemic hits visitor numbers at Home of Golf

10.57am 27th August 2020 - Coronavirus News

The St Andrews Links Trust is to cut up to 30 jobs as a result of the drop in visitor numbers caused by the coronavirus.

The Trust, which runs seven golf courses in the town, including the Old Course, has confirmed it will enter into consultation with staff in the coming weeks.

According to a report in The Courier newspaper, all the affected jobs will be in the food and beverage teams in kitchens and restaurants at its three clubhouses, as well as at the West Sands Café.

A review of staffing began in January before the pandemic, but a spokesman said the impact of lockdown had exacerbated matters and accelerated the process.

A spokesperson for St Andrews Links Trust said: “In January this year we commenced a review of our food and beverage department to identify measures to make it more sustainable for the future. Following the UK-wide lockdown in March, the review also incorporated an assessment of the longer-term effects of covid-19, which has had a significant impact on the hospitality industry.

“We have now briefed all members of the food and beverage team about a restructure proposal that would create a sustainable future. In the coming weeks we will be entering into consultation with our food and beverage team so that we can hear their views and minimise the impact on jobs as much as possible.”

The trust employs around 400 people in peak season, making it one of St Andrews’ largest employers. It operates three clubhouses – St Andrews Links, used by members of the Old Course, New Course and Jubilee Course; The Castle overlooking St Andrews Bay, and The Eden for members of Eden, Strathtyrum and Balgove courses.

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