Hospitality and businesses in the wider visitor economy are being forced to close their doors when a member of the team isolates.
Bill Addy, CEO of Liverpool BID Company calls for specific support for independents and small businesses so they do not risk long term closure:
“We are seeing an increasing number of independent businesses in hospitality and the wider visitor economy being forced to close their doors when a member of their team isolates. Without specific support this could close them down.
Every industry, every sector, every business has been threatened by Covid but we need to look at specific support for our smallest, our grassroots and our most vulnerable businesses.
When a member of their team tests positive, they often do not have the space or staff resources to continue to operate. Instead, they have to close losing up to ten days worth of business.
This summer is critical for those independents. Especially those who may not have been able to deliver or had to pivot their business model during the course of the pandemic.
These businesses are a crucial ingredient in our high streets and our city centres. They are homegrown and they need to be nurtured to be protected.
Imagine seeing your business survive the past 18 months, only to see it threatened while the government shouts about recovery.
A dedicated grant to support these firms would help cover the costs they still have to invest in while they close their doors. Things like food they can no longer sell, or staff costs as furlough cover reduces, rent and more.
Let us not let our independents down at this final hurdle.”
Liverpool BID Company is a private, not-for-profit organisation, representing the interests of 1,000 levy paying businesses in Liverpool city centre, across two BIDs (Business Improvement Districts) – Retail & Leisure BID and Culture & Commerce BID.
The aim of Liverpool BID Company is to:
- Bring added value to levy payers and build on the core services already provided by Liverpool City Council and Merseyside Police
- Ensure both BID areas are clean and secure for businesses and visitors, and have the right environment for the private sector to succeed – whether a retailer, restaurant owner, or legal and financial service
- Work with the city and charities to tackle street dwellers
- Drive footfall and develop activity where needed
- Champion the voice of the levy payers it represents, pushing forward their agendas and making things happen
The Liverpool BID areas cover some of the most iconic locations in Liverpool city centre:
- The eclectic and diverse independents of Bold Street
- The thriving restaurant and hotel scene of Castle Street
- Liverpool’s ever-evolving high street – from the iconic brands on Church Street and Williamson Square, to the high-end boutiques of Metquarter
- The professional and financial services around Old Hall Street
- Mathew Street and Cavern Quarter – the birthplace of The Beatles, a focal point in the city’s music heritage, and a colourful nightlife scene
- The famous Waterfront and Royal Albert Dock, Three Graces and Pier Head
- St George’s Quarter and St John’s Gardens and William Brown Street
For more information about Liverpool BID Company, please visit: www.liverpoolbidcompany.com
