UKHospitality said fears of a resumption in far-right violence last Wednesday (7 August) led sales in some towns to fall by 40%, with businesses reporting footfall down by as much as 75%.
There were widespread cancellations, particularly in coastal towns where coach and day trips were pulled. City centres also saw mass cancellation of events, with many workers instructed to work from home.
Restaurants up and down the country closed early on the Wednesday amid the threat of large-scale disorder that subsequently failed to materialise.
It followed a week of far-right riots and looting in cities and towns across England.
Over the weekend, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds backed UKHospitality’s call for insurance companies to act swiftly to help businesses recover.
“These figures are startling and shows the enormous impact the riots, and threat of further disorder, have had on our high streets and communities,” says Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality.
“Bustling, vibrant city centres were turned into ghost towns as the public stayed at home and businesses shut.
“Thankfully, protests and riots didn’t materialise as feared this weekend and we can now turn to how we support our high streets to recover, at a time when many were already struggling with the affordability of running a hospitality business during challenging economic times.
“Hospitality is the glue that knits our communities together and our sector stands ready to work with the government to play a central role in the renewal of our high streets after the challenges of the last 10 days.
“For those businesses sadly affected, that work has already begun and I’m grateful that the Secretary of State has backed our call for swift action from insurance companies dealing with claims. Quick action on practical measures like insurance claims will be crucial for businesses to get back on their feet.”
Last week, UKHospitality launched a support hub for businesses and staff affected by the riots, which included advice on compensation for victims of criminal damage or loss during a riot; business activity having to stop as a result of riot activity; collaboration with local authorities, businesses and police; and wellbeing support for hospitality staff.
To access the support hub, click here.
