Looking Back at 2025: Hospitality’s Safety Wins and Challenges
2025 was a year of contrasts for UK hospitality. While progress was made in some areas, persistent risks reminded us why safety must remain at the heart of every operation. Here’s what defined the year – and what operators can learn from it.
Safety Wins in 2025
Digital Safety Systems Took Centre Stage
Paper-based checks continued to fade as more businesses embraced digital tools for food safety and health & safety. Real-time monitoring and automated alerts helped reduce missed checks and gave managers visibility across multiple sites. For operators, this shift meant fewer surprises and stronger protection for guests and teams.
Allergen Awareness Improved
Natasha’s Law became part of everyday practice, with more venues providing clear written allergen information for non-prepacked foods. This transparency built trust and reduced risk. Many operators also invested in staff training and menu governance – recognising that allergen mistakes remain one of the leading causes of product recalls.
Fire Safety and Sustainability Stayed in Focus
Single-use plastic bans introduced in late 2023 continued to reshape takeaway operations. By 2025, most businesses had adapted with safer alternatives. Alongside sustainability, fire safety audits and risk assessments gained renewed attention, especially in venues hosting large events.
Challenges That Tested Operators
Food Safety Under Pressure
The UK’s largest recorded Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) outbreak in December – linked to pre-packed sandwiches – was a stark reminder of the importance of supplier assurance and traceability. STEC is a harmful strain of E. coli that produces Shiga toxins, which can cause severe illness and, in some cases, kidney complications.
Allergen-related recalls also dominated FSA alerts, reinforcing the need for robust controls.
Health & Safety Risks Persisted
Labour shortages and high staff turnover made consistent safety practices harder to maintain. With fewer hands on deck, some businesses struggled to keep training and checks up to standard – increasing the risk of accidents and enforcement action.
Security Became Part of the Safety Conversation
The introduction of Martyn’s Law in April 2025 added a new dimension to safety. Venues with capacities of 200+ now face a legal duty to prepare for terrorist incidents. While enforcement won’t begin until 2027, operators must use 2026 to plan – from risk assessments to emergency procedures.
Moving Forward: Safety as a Habit
If 2025 taught us anything, it’s that safety isn’t a tick-box exercise – it’s a daily habit that protects people and brands.
At Shield Safety, we make that habit effortless. Our Shield Assure platform brings food safety, health & safety, and fire safety together in one digital hub — supported by expert advice and Safe to Trade® certification for visible assurance.
Whether it’s allergen control, HACCP, or fire risk management, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us here to find out more.
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