Member Article

Half of UK consumers would spend more to help hospitality get back on its feet

48% of UK consumers would spend more on a hospitality experience once things return to ‘normal,’ if it helps the business get back on its feet, as 41% know somebody who has been impacted by the hospitality industry’s recent losses, according to recent research commissioned by ePOS Hybrid.

The same research, from the start-up that’s disrupting the industry with market leading point of sale technology, also found that 45% of consumers are committed to supporting local independents in the hospitality sector, and have continued to order from them through lockdown to ensure they survive. Furthermore, 43% admit they have been supporting independents more than chains during the pandemic, as 44% admit it has resulted in them having more loyalty to the hospitality businesses they regularly visit, saying they would like to support them however they can.

As the UK continues progressing through the roadmap out of lockdown, all eyes are on the industry to see how it recovers in the wake of COVID-19. With a number of pubs, bars and restaurants having been forced to close for long periods throughout the last 12-months, consumer behaviour will be vital in helping businesses to bounce back.

“There’s no doubt recent months have resulted in challenging times for businesses. However, it is very encouraging to see consumers’ willingness to help get the sector back on its feet through continued support and increased spend, something that is essential if the industry is to fully recover.

“Over the past year, we have seen a number of exciting advancements in technology to help the sector adapt to the new rules imposed by the Government. As the industry prepares to open its doors again, we look forward to seeing new technology continue to be adopted to streamline operations and in turn, increase profitability – which will be vital for post-pandemic recovery,” says Andrew Gibbon, head of growth, ePOS Hybrid.

Many small businesses have introduced new takeaway and delivery services which have provided a new stream of revenue during lockdown. Consumers have turned to bars and restaurants across the UK to create their favourite dining experiences at home and this has been a huge success for many businesses who, before the pandemic, did not offer these services.

ePOS Hybrid was one of the first companies in the UK to launch contactless, table ordering and offered support to hundreds of businesses throughout the pandemic as they looked to pivot their business model from dining in to online ordering and takeaway.

“It is great to see consumers turning to more independents within the sector and small businesses really embracing the opportunity to provide new services. The hospitality sector is incredibly resilient and we have no doubt it will recover quickly, thanks to the support of consumers and new technologies, which have enabled operators to tap into new revenue streams and improve the overall level of service,” concludes Andrew.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Jessica Louise Simm .