Industry leaders have warned that upcoming rail strikes in the UK will wreak “havoc” during the May half term school holiday and see the hospitality industry lose around £132 million in sales.
The strikes will take place on Wednesday 31 May, Friday 2 June and Saturday 3 June, with the latter being the day of the FA Cup final at Wembley.
Kate Nicholls, CEO of trade body UKHospitality, said: “The May half term normally represents a bumper week for hospitality, with typically sunny weather encouraging families to head out on activities, visits and staycations.
“Unfortunately, we’ve seen time and time again that rail strikes put a significant dampener on any sales as visitors are deterred from booking visits or eating and drinking out. This time around that means families staying at home and football fans travelling to the capital for the FA Cup final disrupted.”
Ms Nicholls added that disruption throughout the week is expected to cost the sector £132 million, bringing the total impact of rail and tube strikes over the past year to £3.25 billion.
She said: “It’s critical for the public, workers and businesses that there is a resolution in this dispute as soon as possible. I would urge all involved to get back round the negotiating table for constructive discussions to reach an agreement.”
