Federation of Small Businesses calls for support for small hospitality and spa businesses

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has released a new report that outlines a package of recommendations to help small hospitality, spa and tourism businesses to get back on track after recent lockdowns.

A Menu for Recovery calls for long-term help to ensure the survival of small hospitality, spa and tourism businesses, with FSB research highlighting the devastating impact of the pandemic on both these sectors and their supply chains.

Following the UK government’s recent decision to extend lockdown restrictions, many small businesses have now been closed without income for 15 months, while thousands of others are still not operating at full capacity.

The report calls for government to oversee a new strategy of future support. The FSB has also urged the ministers to help small firms to employ and, crucially, retain skilled staff, which many spa businesses are struggling to do against the backdrop of Brexit and the pandemic.

Mike Cherry, FSB National Chair, said: “With mass closures and restricted openings over the last 15 months, Covid-19 lockdowns have shown just how important small businesses are to both the economy and our communities.

“Despite being a vital sector for the economy, tourism and hospitality businesses do not get the attention they deserve. Businesses across the UK are suffering unprecedented and unpredictable disruption. With a crucial summer season ahead, we need to make sure the beleaguered sector gets urgent help to ensure its survival.”