Why confidence is key to success of Government dining out scheme - the YEP says
Many businesses across Leeds are still footing the bill for the mounting cost of the pandemic.
Some have faced months of closure in lockdown, while others have looked at inventive ways to diversify in the face of the challenge.
Yesterday more than 500 restaurants, bars and pubs were handed a new lifeline in the form of the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme.
And restaurateurs are already starting to feel the benefit.
Nick Bird, owner of The New Conservatory, said trade doubled on the first lunchtime and he hopes it will encourage more people to dine out rather than eat at home.
And for many, the 50 per cent discount has come as a welcome surprise on their final bill.
While it is a fantastic way to make restaurants – especially small independents – more accessible, it will also be a welcome relief to those businesses whose lives and livelihoods depend on their financial security.
But right at the heart of this will be confidence from diners venturing out.