As a result of public health warnings due to the rise of the new Covid-19 variant, omicron, consumer confidence has evaporated.
Even though hospitality and leisure businesses are free to open, they are struggling with reduced customers and associated footfall and bookings. This has come at a time when the sector would normally be banking on the busy pre-Christmas period. Hospitality UK has reported that many businesses have lost 40-60% of their December trade, often their most profitable month.
The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, has announced additional support that will be available for businesses who have been impacted by the omicron variant.
Statutory sick pay for Covid-related absences (for small and medium-sized employers across the UK) and local authority business and hospitality grants are just two areas of support available.