Norwich hospitality bosses warn of winter closures from rising costs

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 13:08 · Archive

Norwich hospitality business owners warn that soaring costs could force more venues to close this winter.

Norwich and Norfolk hospitality business owners have united to form the Norfolk Hospitality campaign group, warning that soaring costs could force more venues to close this winter.

Pub and restaurant owners say they are facing their most challenging winter yet. The issues they cite include increasing wages, rising taxes, and higher energy and business rates. Dawn Hopkins, landlady of the Rose Inn in Queens Road, said the venue cannot survive on matchday trade alone. 'I am finding carrying on extremely tough,' she said. 'We want the council to work more closely with the hospitality sector and listen to the challenges we're facing.'

The group includes Mike Baxter, owner of Gonzo's Tea Room, Natty Crothers, co-owner of Tallow steak restaurant, and Tom Ginn, co-owner of Dicks Bar. Hospitality bosses have met with MP Clive Lewis to discuss the issues and pressure Norwich City Council and the government to do more to help.

The campaign follows the sudden closure of Wrights café in Bank Plain due to financial pressures. The group is warning that the budget announcement on October 28 could trigger further closures in the city.

How it is being reported

• Hospitality bosses warn 'crippling' costs could shut more city venues this winterNorwich and Norfolk businesses, part of the Norfolk Hospitality campaign group, warn soaring costs could close more venues in the city this winter.Norwich Evening News · 13 Oct, 11:30
• Hospitality bosses warn 'crippling' costs could shut more city venues this winterNorwich and Norfolk businesses, part of the Norfolk Hospitality campaign group, warn soaring costs could close more venues in the city this winter.Eastern Daily Press · 13 Oct, 11:30

In this story: Norwich · Norfolk · Norfolk Hospitality · Dawn Hopkins · Clive Lewis · Norwich City Council

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