A hospitality chief has warned that repeated Covid lockdowns will leave his trade at “crisis point”.
Kenny Blair, managing director at Buzzworks, insists bars and restaurants must be seen as “the solution – not the problem” in helping people mix safely.
It comes as further restrictions take effect from tomorrow (Friday) - with fears of a bleak winter ahead for the trade.
And Mr Blair, whose company employs more than 500 staff, warns it will have a “devastating” impact on an industry fighting for its survival.
He told the Ayrshire Post: “Our message is clear – well run hospitality is part of the solution – not the problem.
“We are desperate to work with government, whether it be at local or national level, and be part of the conversation.
“The figures speak for themselves.
“In 300,000 customer visits we’ve had only two people test positive for Covid.
“You can close bars and restaurants all you want but people will still find a way to socialise.
“We can provide a safe and controlled environment for them to do that.
“A 10pm curfew was never the answer – it leads to overcrowding in the streets and more house parties.
“Police are breaking up these gatherings all over the place and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
“The vast majority of the hospitality sector is responsibly run and is bending over backwards to do whatever it takes and make this work.”
Buzzworks form part of the Scottish Hospitality Group (SHG), made up of industry-leading companies north of the Border.
Blair added: “There’s people on this group who, like us, have spent decades building their businesses.
“We all manage risk on a daily basis and know what we’re doing.
“I suppose my question would be...has Nicola Sturgeon or any of her advisers visited hospitality premises to see how we are doing things?
“That is our main concern.
“We feel our places are more controlled and safer than anywhere else and yet that is not being recognised.”
And the Buzzworks boss has a clear warning for the months ahead with the trade in dire need of support.
He said: “I’m always an optimist and we’re very proud of our staff, who’ve done a great job getting our places up and running again.
“But we need the support from above through these coming months because, financially, it is going to be hugely challenging for a lot of businesses and they’ll face tough decisions."
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