GCA Urges Government To Review Assistance For Catering Industry
The GCA urges Government reviews the assistance offered to the catering industry in March as trading levels due to current restrictions are extremely low. The Catering Industry has been the hardest hit industry when it comes to operational rules.
It is felt that the latest rules implemented are unjustified as bars and restaurants have not been proven to be vectors for the transmission of the Covid virus, with the vast majority of customers and establishments complying with strict hygiene and social distancing procedures.
The unexpected and unexplained 3-7pm alcohol ban particularly has caused frustration amongst owners as this has had a negative effect on trading and caused a significant amount of weekend booking cancellations resulting in local families opting to go to Spain in the afternoons where virus numbers are significantly higher with far less people vaccinated. Members have also reported moments of embarrassment with having to remove alcoholic beverages from customers tables during Sunday lunchtime.
The adverse impact to the trade and subsequent financial losses caused by continuing these restrictions, far outweigh the 30% Beat and assistance package offered to both retail which is less restricted and hospitality for March. This is before any kind of market analysis that would show that tourism and consumer confidence is low. The reality is, that with current restrictions, financial losses are being incurred whilst Bars and Restaurants remain open.
For Catering establishments, the hard fight for survival begins now, trying to make a living whilst battling through a mountain of debt and footfall being lower than ever. It would be a shame for businesses to fail now when we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
The GCA has been consulting its membership on these issues with many establishments highlighting the same problems and concerns. Some have closed doors this week and others are considering closure till rules are lifted. For many venues running at a loss after the financial hardship of locking down their businesses is not an option.
The GCA are aware that the 3-7pm curfew will be reviewed this week and possibly lifted if cases remain low. However, restricted table sizes also need to be looked at ahead of Mother’s Day where families are often more than six and wish to dine together.
The Association once again reiterates its offer of assistance to the Government and consult the affected catering fraternity as the changes to restrictions are introduced.
