The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns have unimaginably changed the lives of us all, and we at spiritsEUROPE share the concerns of many Europeans as we find ourselves in a second lockdown.
As always, our thoughts are first and foremost with those suffering from coronavirus, and with the frontline workers who go above and beyond to protect our health, and ensure public services continue running. Their efforts are heroic.
Fortunately, it seems that this lockdown can likely be more targeted and shorter than the one earlier this year. There have also been very positive announcements regarding advances made in science and innovation – there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel.
This might, however, come far too late for many of our smaller distilleries, not to speak of our countless colleagues in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Governments have moved swiftly to close restaurants, bars and hotels in attempts to reduce social contacts to avoid increases in infection and transmission. However, this rationalisation, while understandable, may be more difficult to base on the available facts. Evidence from across Europe shows that compliant hospitality venues – such as bars and restaurants – barely figure in studies on the site of transmission: the proportion of cases tied to hotels and restaurants in Austria was estimated to be 1.8% according to data from late October, while in Netherlands 1.4% of traced cases were linked to hospitality venues. The drastic increase in cases in Belgium caused headlines worldwide, and one of the first moves of the Brussels government was the closure of the HoReCa sector. However, in Wallonia in Belgium, only 3.7% of clusters were linked to “businesses (including bars and restaurants”). Furthermore, in the UK, data suggests that approximately 5% of those with the virus had had recent close contact in leisure and community settings (which includes all recreation and worship venues).
Due to these closures and the subsequent loss of income, especially in the run-up to the festive season in December, many pubs and restaurants will be left with no choice but to close forever. This is difficult, particularly when reminded that many, if not all, of these businesses would otherwise be viable.
This virus has changed our lives utterly – but we have found ways to work around it. Strict adherence to the safety guidelines among the general population and in responsible businesses has been inspiring. The importance and benefits of seeing friends and family in a safe, secure social settings has never been more evident.
As we approach the Christmas holidays and the end of the year, it’s time to take into account the efforts made by the public and by businesses alike. We should try to provide for opportunities to meet each other in safe and controlled environments. Governments introducing restrictive measures must follow the evidence and science, and introduce proportionate policy as a result. The hospitality sector has been resolute in adhering to the social distancing and hygiene requirements, often to great expense, and has worked hard to ensure that the rules are followed. Such valiant efforts should not be ignored.
Ulrich Adam*
Director General
In his capacity as permanent representative of SPRL ADLOR Consulting
