Fast-food chain Chick-fil-A is turning to an unlikely workforce to combat staffing shortages: teenagers. The US-based company has ramped up hiring of under-18s, with some locations now employing more teens than adults – a trend reshaping the industry's labour landscape.
Why Teens Are the New Fast-Food Workforce
Facing persistent labour shortages post-pandemic, restaurants across America are increasingly relying on younger workers. Chick-fil-A stands out with its particularly aggressive teen recruitment strategy, offering flexible schedules and leadership development programmes tailored to high school students.
The Benefits for Businesses
- Lower wage expectations compared to adult workers
- Greater schedule flexibility for part-time positions
- Opportunity to train loyal employees from a young age
Concerns About Youth Employment
While businesses celebrate this solution, child welfare advocates warn about potential downsides:
- Increased pressure on academic performance
- Possible exploitation through extended shifts
- Limited time for extracurricular activities
The Bigger Picture: Fast Food's Labour Crisis
Chick-fil-A's approach reflects broader industry struggles. The National Restaurant Association reports the sector remains nearly a million jobs below pre-pandemic levels, forcing creative solutions like expanded teen hiring.
Industry analysts note: "This isn't just about filling positions – it's about reshaping the workforce model for an entire generation."
