Business Update
This last month has been of incredible significance for the hospitality industry. After one of the most disruptive years for the industry in modern history, it appears that there is finally light at the end of the tunnel. In England, hospitality was allowed to reopen and, unlike last summer, no curfew has been set in place for businesses: allowing for businesses to once again enter the lost night time economy. In the Isle of Man, hospitality has completely reopened with no Covid restrictions, meaning businesses can fully respond to the demand of the public.
This is an exciting time to be investors of hospitality businesses in both England and the Isle of Man. In London, El Patio, the Tapas Bar and Restaurant, has reopened outdoors, complying with Covid safety requirements. BookAClassic, the classic and vintage car rental service, has also seen substantial interest, especially as weddings are once again given the go-ahead.
In the Isle of Man, the Harbour Lights Group is making a return to normality. The flagship Harbour Lights Cafe and Restaurant in Peel has reopened, providing warm hospitality from breakfast through to dinner. There have also been appointments of managers. At The Fishery, known for twisting classic Manx fish dishes, Jade Gregory has taken the role of manager, with former manager Ciara Wheelan being promoted to Junior Operations Manager of the Harbour Lights group. She is currently in the process of developing menus, ahead of the reopening on 1st May.
Progress is also developing the Harbour Lights Group’s latest development, Henderson and Glass. The venue will be a coffee and cocktail bar, and will truly be a unique space on the island. Above the bar, there will be a bespoke, luxury holiday apartment. With some tourism likely to return on the island this summer, this is a fantastic new venture.
Operations did not come to a halt in the Isle of Man durings its third lockdown. The island’s branch of Wiltshire Farm Foods proved to be a vital service to many individuals, including many vulnerable adults. Garey Food Services also continued its deliveries, responding to the increased demand for home food deliveries. Likewise, Peel’s Harbour Lights restaurant offered a takeaway Mother’s day Afternoon Tea, assuring that some celebrations could occur despite the circumstances.
The Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly challenged the hospitality industry. However, the new energy- from both those working in the industry, and its customers- will hopefully allow businesses to quickly bounce back. We look forward to seeing what the future holds.