Nearly eight in 10 inbound tourism businesses have been affected by coronavirus-related cancellations in the past month, a major study has revealed.
The research, published by trade body UKinbound, is among the first to highlight the impact of the new Omicron variant on the travel and tourism sector.
According to the report, almost four in five (79 per cent) tour operators, accommodation providers, and tourist attractions were hit by cancellations after tougher travel rules were introduced last month.
Since November, travellers entering the UK must now have evidence of a negative pre-departure coronavirus test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result from a post-arrival test.
The traffic light system has also been reintroduced, with 11 African countries placed on the “red list”. Travellers coming from these regions must spend 11 nights in a quarantine hotel, costing up to £2,285 per passenger.
The report also shows that around three in four cancelled bookings were for December, suggesting that tourism businesses will not benefit from the traditionally lucrative festive period.
Commenting on the findings, UKinbound chief executive, Joss Croft, said: “International consumer confidence to travel to the UK has taken another huge hit, and the UK’s kneejerk decisions and lack of support for businesses that bear the consequences, means the recovery of this industry has already been derailed.
“Businesses need emergency support. The summer season was all but lost for them, they have depleted their cash reserves and maxed out loans. They have no wiggle room left.
“Government support has all but ceased but we still have significant restrictions in place, meaning the industry cannot trade its way to recovery.”
For help and advice with related matters, please get in touch with our tourism finance team today.
