Pubs, bars and restaurant forced to close again as Covid infections rise

It has been announced that London, South and West Essex and parts of Hertfordshire will enter tier three – England’s strictest tier of coronavirus restrictions – at midnight on Wednesday 16 December.

In a briefing with MPs yesterday, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the measures were being put in place in order to contain “sharp, exponential rises” in Covid-19 infections. He said a new variant of coronavirus has been identified, which may be the reason for the recent faster spread. Hancock said moving more areas into tier 3 will be a “significant blow” to businesses affected, such as pubs, bars and restaurants, which will have to close their doors once again, except for takeaway and delivery, on what would have been the sector’s busiest week of the year.

Matthew Fell, Chief Policy Director at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) comments:

“Businesses in London, Essex and Hertfordshire understand that rising infection rates must be controlled, and tougher restrictions are necessary to save lives and protect against longer-term economic scarring.

“However, the financial impact of moving into tier 3 will be stark. Businesses – particularly those in sectors like retail and hospitality – will have been counting on a festive fillip to help mitigate months of hardship, and further restrictions now will come as a devastating blow. Thousands of jobs and livelihoods could be at risk.

“It’s vital that any tightening of measures anywhere across England is shaped by clear evidence, consistently applied, and accompanied by increased support for businesses in the worst-hit sectors. Vaccinations are now underway and offer tangible reasons for optimism in 2021 – the government must do everything possible to help businesses survive until risks recede and trade returns.

At Beavis Morgan, our business support specialists in the Hospitality sector remain available to assist businesses during this difficult time.

We have extensive experience of working with clients in the hospitality sector and our professionals are acknowledged experts in issues affecting pubs, bars and restaurants.

Through our partner businesses, BM Structured Finance and BM Advisory, we are able to help with sourcing and restructuring debt finance for SME businesses, as well as assisting with resolving issues which can impact on business performance and success, and finding innovative solutions for businesses and individuals in distress.

Contact Matthew Burge or your usual Beavis Morgan Partner for further information about how we can assist you and your hospitality business.