Scotland's boozers are predicted to be 'exceptionally busy' this festive season as punters gather for the World Cup and Christmas parties.
Leading Scottish hospitality wholesaler Dunns Food and Drinks are expecting the “busiest festive season ever” as people across the country get ready to celebrate their first restriction-free Christmas in three years. From November 20, football fans are expected to flock to pubs, bars and restaurants in their thousands as the World Cup begins in Qatar.
The increase in footfall is predicted to create a much-needed sales boom for Scotland’s hospitality industry - which has been subjected to harsh Covid restrictions and financial uncertainty over the past few years.
Julie Dunn, operations director at Dunns Food and Drinks, said: “We are excited for our customers, who are set for an exceptionally busy festive period. The hospitality industry will be looking forward to an extra boost after a difficult few years.
“If a much-welcomed World Cup sales boom were to come to fruition - despite Scotland failing to make the finals - it would certainly provide some certainty to bars, pubs and restaurants across the country.”
However, despite the optimism, Dunns is keen to sound caution.
Julie said: “While we’re excited for the winter ahead, we’d be remiss to assume everything will run without a hitch. We only have to go back to last Christmas to be reminded of how quickly things can change when the toughest COVID restrictions were brought back in at the last minute.
“We’re also not naive to the current cost of living crisis. Inflation, energy price spikes and the shortage of labour are all impacting businesses - including our own - up and down the country. With the World Cup and the prospect of a more ‘normal’ Christmas, we feel there’s plenty to be positive about in comparison to 2021 and we’re hopeful for our greatest ever festive season.
“However, in the current climate, this year’s Christmas wish is stability for our customers and we’ll be doing whatever we can to support them.”
In preparation for a suspected rise in demand, Dunns will host an industry trade show in Glasgow next week on Tuesday October 25 to give producers the chance to showcase their products ahead of the festive season.
Discovery 2022 takes place at Platform, 253 Argyle Street, Glasgow from 1pm to 6pm. The event is FREE to attend, however as capacity is limited, attendees are encouraged to register here .
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