One major hotel lost tens of thousands of pounds in just one weekend as the impact of the Omicron Covid variant continues to hit hospitality businesses.
The Bolton hotel has seen 600 bookings cancelled over the festive period and was struggling to plan for the future, according to Bolton North East MP Mark Logan.
It is one of many businesses in the hospitality industry that have been calling out for support as people cancel plans ahead of what should be one the busiest times of the year.
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Bolton has been hit particularly hard by restrictions over the course of the pandemic and this has impacted 'consumer confidence', according to Mr Logan.
It comes as the Chancellor announces a raft of support packages for struggling companies, including grants of up to £6,000 to help them survive.
In an open letter released before the announcement of the support package, Mr Logan said: "Recent announcements and measures have impact consumer confidence in Bolton with many business owners and constituents asking me if it'll be difficult to frequent pubs and restaurants as we head into 2022.
"I appreciate that we all need to take extra precautions in order to safeguard both our NHS and hospital staff, yet the knock-on effect could be catastrophic to those earning a living through the hospitality industry.
"One recent example has come to my attention: a major hotel in Bolton North East this weekend has experienced a loss in trade to the tune of tens of thousands of pounds.
"And if that wasn't bad enough, a further 600 bookings were cancelled. There is anxiety regarding the extent to which businesses can plan as normal, especially at this very pivotal time of year."
Announcing the government's support package, Rishi Sunak said £1bn would be made available to support hospitality.
He added: “We recognise that the spread of the Omicron variant means businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors are facing huge uncertainty, at a crucial time.
“So we’re stepping in with £1 billion of support, including a new grant scheme, the reintroduction of the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme and further funding released through the Culture Recovery Fund.
“Ultimately the best thing we can do to support businesses is to get the virus under control, so I urge everyone to Get Boosted Now.”
