Coronavirus: Night time chief laments 'devastating' news for hospitality sector
Date published: 17 March 2020
The uncertainty this measure has placed on the hospitality sector is likely to be 'crippling'
Sacha Lord, the Night Time Economy Adviser for Greater Manchester, has released a statement in response to the Prime Minister's advice to stop going to places like pubs and clubs.
Mr Lord, entrepreneur and co-creator of the Parklife festival and the city's Warehouse Project venue, said: "I am continuing to monitor the Government's advice regarding Coronavirus, including today's guidance to avoid pubs, clubs and halt non-essential contact.
"First and foremost, I am overwhelmingly disappointed with the measures.
"Greater Manchester's bars, clubs, restaurants and nightlife are the heart of our region and I know how devastating this latest news will be to all owners.
"The uncertainty this measure has placed on the hospitality sector is likely to be crippling and I know most, if not all, operators will currently be feeling scared for their futures.
"The move to advise customers to avoid pubs and clubs, rather than implementing an outright closure, combined with no end date, will affect the rights that venue owners have with regards to insurance claims.
"I am in touch with my equivalent Night Economy Advisers across the world and we are one of the only countries not to provide a specific timeframe.
"With this in mind, I will be actively talking to Government to try to ensure businesses are able to protect themselves and survive through these trying times, including being able to claim on business interruption insurance.
"I know this will be imperative for some operators, and I want you to know I am and will continue to fight hard to support you. You are not alone.
"There are several measures I am also recommending to help hospitality businesses adapt to this ever changing situation:
"Firstly, I am urging all restaurants, bars, cafes and hospitality venues across Greater Manchester to organise and prepare takeaway and delivery facilities if possible, and to announce these services across your social channels.
"Secondly, I am also encouraging the sale of gift cards.
"For bookings cancellations, please offer the choice to postpone or purchase gift cards instead.
"Thirdly, do not stop talking. Keep planning and keep taking bookings for later this year.
"Ask customers if they would be willing to pay up front in return for discounts.
"As difficult this period will be, we must pull together.
"We must think about the wider community, and protect the lives of the most vulnerable, the ones who need us most.
2We must be brave enough to take these hits to help combat the spread of Coronavirus and protect our staff and customers.
"Together we can help our sector stay safe, stay well and move through this unprecedented time.
"Lastly, I want to say this: Greater Manchester, we will get through this, but we must come together and fight together.
"We will recover, but we must be strong and keep faith.
"I will be providing further updates in due course."
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