Once lockdown is over and we’re all allowed to get outside to explore further afield, it’s likely that we’ll have to follow social distancing rules for some time. Going back to our normal routine of dining out, grabbing a coffee with groups of friends, and going on weekend breaks won’t be possible straight away.
The hospitality and tourism industry in North Wales has already taken a big hit and made plans to survive lockdown – but what will happen for the rest of the year?
MP’s have recently warned of a ‘bloodbath’ as the lockdown rules are lifted. They are predicting that up to a third of Britain’s pubs, hotels and restaurants are going to be at risk of closing down. This is already becoming apparent in North Wales, with hotels in Llandudno announcing the crisis they are in.
Recently, it’s been reported that the owner of Shearings, the coach holiday provider company, is racing to avoid becoming the next corporation to fall due to the coronavirus outbreak. The company owns the Bay Hotel chain that includes Llandudno’s County Hotel and The Marine Hotel. If the group cannot find a buyer and is forced into administration, it will put over 100 jobs in Llandudno at risk.
UKHospitality chief Kate Nicholls explained “with social-distancing restrictions (post lockdown) in place, businesses are only going to be able to reopen at 30 to 50 percent of normal revenues”.
Due to social distancing rules, it’s going to be impossible for places to have the same flow of customers as there was pre-coronavirus. The support from the government and local authorities needs to continue after lockdown if we want to see these businesses survive.”
North Wales relies on the tourism industry to keep its economy thriving. Holiday parks, caravan and camping sites, and holiday homes bringing in cash spending tourists span right across from Wrexham down to the Llyn Peninsula and Anglesey.
The British Beer and Pub Association have explained that pubs will need at least 3 weeks notice to prepare for their reopening when the time comes. This is for breweries to increase their production and ensure that places are supplied.
If a lot of places including pubs and restaurants are shut for an extended period after lockdown, there won’t be much to bring in tourists, having a knock on effects for accommodation and other small businesses.
