Carmen Hall: Bay of Plenty's hospitality sector needs our support

Now's the time to be dining out, says Carmen Hall. Photo / File

OPINION

There is no denying the Bay hospitality sector has been hammered by Covid.

Many in the industry have had to navigate their way through a lockdown and changing alert levels that forced most to reassess business practices and staffing levels.

Unfortunately, there were closures and job losses while others have pivoted and were sustained by the Government's support packages including wage subsidies and loans.

Those businesses at the coalface in our region described a "roller coaster" ride while they continued to face daily challenges.

But the good news is, according to new data from IBISWorld, the cafe and restaurant industry is anticipating an 8.4 per cent rebound in 2021-22, while the fast food and takeaways outlets should expect a 7.5 per cent rebound.

IBISWorld senior industry analyst Matthew Barry said both business confidence and consumer sentiment were also expected to lift over time, although he acknowledged the short-term lockdowns were expected to weaken the sector's performance this year, especially in Auckland.

However, winter is looming and while it was pleasing to hear several establishments in Rotorua were "screaming out for staff" after a busy summer season - there are still tough times ahead.

Those on the edge and struggling now will be the most at risk.

Miss Gee's owner Ashleigh Gee said it may be a long, harsh few months ahead for some businesses.

She feared some people may also cut back on dining out - in order to save for overseas holidays when the borders eventually open.

Gee believed local support would continue but now it would be more important than ever.

I agree. I think while the industry will rebound in the future it is vital we locals do our bit to help them get through.

For those of us who can afford to buy a takeaway or go out for dinner and a few drinks, now is the time to open our wallets. Every dollar counts and will help sustain our local economy.

I'll raise a glass and dine out to that.