Businesses react to West Yorkshire going in to Tier 3
Following the announcement last night that West Yorkshire would be placed into a Tier 3 lockdown from 00.01 on Monday 2 November, which will see the closure of pubs and bars that are not “serving substantial meals” as well as other businesses including soft play centres, casinos and car boot sales, business owners have been sharing their thoughts.
Dave Olejnik, owner, Sarto and Laynes[/caption]Dave Olejnik, the owner of restaurant Sarto and coffee shop Laynes, said: “The move to tier 3 actually permits Sarto to continue to serve in the manner we have been since tier 2 restrictions were imposed.”
He added the worry was actually, “more about public perception of hospitality generally and that the customers we are still serving, though feeling safe whilst with us, may decide to stay away completely.”
James Ooi, the owner of Little Bao Boy, a Leeds based street food company which has a base at North Brewing co’s taproom in the city centre, said it wasn’t a shock that the city had entered tier 3 but added: “It’s sad to see as it’s mainly hospitality who suffer the most from this new tier and personally it’s unjustified. We [the hospitality sector] take literally every measure we can to create a comfortable, safe and enjoyable environment for customers since day one of restrictions and still we are the ones who take the hit.
“Little Bao Boy is in a unique position where we can offer a substantial food offering in North brew tap but I really feel for the 100% wet led venues. I urge any wet led venue to reach out to street food traders looking for trade at this moment in time to see if there could be an opportunity to help one another out”
Valerie Kolat, restaurant owner, Dapur Malayisa
Valerie Kolat, restaurant owner, Dapur Malayisa added that she was “disappointed” but had expected the move given the rising infection rates. She commented “Our region is already struggling with each new restriction that has been announced since September. I hope there will be enough support not just financially but also for everyone’s well being.”
James Mason, chief executive of tourism agency Welcome to Yorkshire said “With the spread of the virus and infection rates rising in our region coupled with the increased strain on the NHS to deliver essential care it is an understandable decision.”
James Mason, chief executive, Welcome to Yorkshire
Adding it would be “A very difficult decision nonetheless for anyone to take because of the significant economic impact. However controlling the spread of the virus has to be paramount.This does mean a continued difficult period for many families and businesses especially in our tourism and hospitality industries. As such we will continue to work tirelessly with local and central government as to what support is available to preserve businesses and jobs.”
Mark Goldstone, head of business representation and policy at the West and North Yorkshire Chamber said: “As we enter into the highest level it will be vital that businesses have rapid access to clear and unambiguous guidance and information about any financial support available to help them get through the next month of restrictions.
“In the Chamber network’s recent letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson we set out five tests which must be met to avoid serious damage to business and consumer confidence. We made the point very strongly that the need for additional restrictions cannot be blamed on a lack of care by hardworking people in businesses across the country but that it represented a failure of the Test and Trace system. Government must urgently improve and expand this system. At the same time it must set out a clear strategy to keep the economy functioning while protecting public health over the long term.”
Joel Mitchell, brand manager from Roxy Leisure Group which operates four venues in Leeds said: “As a national business we have seen the impact of both tier 2 and tier 3 on our businesses across the country. We welcome the tier 3 financial package for the staff and their livelihoods. That is the most important thing first and foremost
“In terms of running a business in tier 3, the customers confidence is shot and running a business successfully is the biggest challenge any hospitality venue will face.”
Beckie Hart, CBI Yorkshire & Humber regional director, said: “Public health comes first, and getting a grip on rising infection rates is vital for confidence, which is critical for the UK’s economic recovery.
Hart added: “The ongoing lack of clarity is costing businesses. Firms affected need to clearly understand what restrictions apply and how to access the support package quickly and effectively, allowing them move with speed to protect jobs and livelihoods.
“Clear communication and transparent evidence for new restrictions is essential to instilling confidence and ensuring compliance. Firms also want to see criteria for a tangible pathway to the timely easing of any new restrictions. This will be vital for enabling firms to re-mobilise supply chains and be ready to re-open.”
