spiritsNEWS September 2020

Spirits tourism hopes to grow as Europeans start travelling again

SpiritsEUROPE celebrated a poignant milestone this month – marking one year since we signed on to the European Tourism Manifesto, an important step forward in recognising the contribution spirits tourism makes across the EU, with over 7 million visitors in 2019. This year, however, will not meet expectations – the lockdown has been particularly difficult for so many regions across Europe that welcome visitors throughout the year, and on the local businesses that rely on these visitors. If you’re ever in need of a reminder why #TourismMatters – check out this beautiful video here.

We have been vocal in our requests that a lower VAT rate be introduced for the hospitality sector, making it more affordable to socialise with family and friends – all while respecting the safety guidelines.

The local restaurant or bar offers a safe environment where we can finally see our loved ones, and where physical distancing and hygiene rules can be implemented and respected.  

Looking forward as our economies recover, the tourism sector will need governmental support. The inconsistent and ever-changing border restrictions along with confusion about quarantine and test requirements caused frustration for both businesses and travellers this summer, and unfortunately deterred bookings for both leisure and business travel. In response to this, spiritsEUROPE, along with 60 other trade associations in the tourism sector, call on Member States to urgently agree on harmonised travel restrictions and ensure their swift implementation across the EU to help the sector survive this unprecedented crisis.

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