The Impact of Covid-19 Restrictions on The Scottish Self-Catering Sector

The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) undertook a survey of nearly 1000 self-catering operators in Scotland to gauge the financial impact of Scottish Government Covid-19 restrictions since September 2020. This survey was conducted last week, and demonstrates huge financial losses for operators throughout Scotland, including in areas that are in Levels 1 & 2 of coronavirus restrictions but are still experiencing difficulties due to a drop in bookings.

The work was complemented by estimations provided by the respected and independent economic consultancy, Frontline, on the total financial impact on self-catering businesses in Scotland.

Frontline have estimated a total financial impact of £265m for the self-catering sector alone since September 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions. This encompasses the impact of travel bans, the rule of six and one household, restrictions on household gatherings and Christmas bubbles guidance.

The data from Frontline does not include significant economic impact and footfall generated by visitors staying in self-catering accommodation in local businesses, bars, restaurants and visitor attractions. The total economic impact is therefore likely to be considerable.

The survey work from the ASSC also provides insights into current state of affairs within Scottish self-catering and how Covid-19 has impacted trading.

We absolutely welcome the announcement today of more funds for the hospitality sector, however, we’ve yet to see what it means for our sector, which has been completely devastated by the travel restrictions, as borne out in the findings from the Frontline Report.

Read the full report: ASSC Sectoral Survey on Impact of Covid 19 Restrictions December 2020

Read the press release: Press Release – Cost of Covid 19 Restrictions