One of the biggest challenges as we head into 2025 will be attracting young people to the industry and meet their needs as alternative lifestyles rise in popularity, says maritime catering company MCTC.
CEO Christian Ioannou believes the new generation the industry is hoping to attract as seafarers is increasingly looking for alternative lifestyles and hybrid working environments.
“Having said that, our industry must adapt to the new generation rather than expecting the younger generation to adapt to old-school practices.
“We must showcase what our industry has to offer with both onshore and seafaring prospects, exciting challenges, a very varied job role, along with a wealth of lifestyle, fitness and wellness support services to ensure they feel cared for and protected. People are starting to move away from the 9-5 working life, and that is something we can use to our advantage," he explained.
New amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention have come into effect stating that all seafarers must be provided with free nutritious meals and potable water while respecting cultural and religious dietary practices. Regular inspections to ensure hygiene and quality are also mandatory.
Over the course of 2024, MCTC has seen a rise in specific dietary requirements, such as veganism and vegetarianism among seafarers, which provides galley crews with the challenge of ensuring they are catering for all diets as well as different cultures and cuisines.
MCTC offers the full spectrum of catering management services to vessels.
