March 30, 2021 - 1483 views
Clarity on when hospitality can reopen outdoors in Wales and on crucial new financial support from April onwards for businesses forced to stay shut is now vital to avoid job losses and business closures warns UKHospitality Cymru.
“The news that outdoor hospitality will not be considered for reopening until at least April 23rd is disappointing, disruptive and damaging to businesses that are desperate to know when they can tell guests when they can return.
“Our businesses see retail and other areas opening up while they are frustrated and fearful for their existence. Existing support runs out in five days and they are hanging on by their fingernails financially.
“We are only asking for a fair and level playing field that offers clarity and financial stability. Local hospitality businesses are ready to go with full guidelines containing a set of mitigations that will make them safe and welcoming.
“We can’t plan to bring people back to work without a clear indication of date and many will be unable to keep people on the payroll without more support.
“After twelve months of listening to our calls for much needed support, it would be a waste of that sound investment in Welsh jobs to fall short at the final hurdles.”
The industry body has pushed hard for a solid commitment that outdoor spaces will be allowed to open up on the 23rd and indoor venues, shortly after.
