A collection of Scottish foodservice bodies have together set out a pragmatic approach out of lockdown to the government that they hope will avoid catastrophic business failure across the sector.
The set of recommendations from organisations representing Scotland’s foodservice sector has now been submitted to the government.
They have urged it to mirror the reopening plans for England as closely as possible, with the stripping away of additional restrictions such as a curfew and the service of alcohol only with a meal. On top of this, they have provided it with a series of small tweaks to the levels in the current system that would allow the sector to meet both public health and economy objectives as strict Covid measures remain in place.
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Research from leading economic consultancy, BiGGAR Economics, shows that this proposed pragmatic approach is essential if the Scottish Government is to avoid catastrophic business failure across the hospitality sector.
The figures show that under the current Level 3 restrictions, 54% of hospitality businesses could be operating, which generates a turnover of £269 million and supports 21,900 jobs.
If Government were to open with the proposed Level 3 industry ask, 73% of businesses could be operating, generating a turnover of £927 million and supporting 53,300 jobs. Colin Wilkinson, managing director of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), said: “Hospitality sector groups have joined together to present a proposal which will provide a more sustainable environment for hospitality businesses as we continue down the long Road Map out of the pandemic.
“With all of the current levels in the Strategic Framework of restrictions affecting business viability across the board, changes need to be made if this important sector to Scotland’s economy is to survive, continue to provide jobs, contribute to the public purse and restart the important role it plays in local economies and the fabric of the community. By tweaking the restrictions in the various levels, the Scottish Government have the opportunity to throw a lifeline to the industry and those that it employs as we ride out the storm,” he added.
