Almost one million hospitality employees set to return from furlough for reopening

Six in 10 venues are expected to open in early July with almost one million employees brought back into work, a survey by UKHospitality has shown.

The survey revealed operators plan to bring more than 960,000 staff out of furlough during July, with another 720,000 to follow by the end of September, under current plans.

Around 60% of the UK’s hospitality sector is expected to reopen on or within a few days of 4 July, reaching around 75% by the end of the month.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “This is incredibly positive news and a fantastic demonstration of the very hard work that businesses have put in getting themselves ready to reopen.

“Everyone can see the devastating effect that this crisis has had on hospitality businesses. Venues have been closed for months and millions of workers in the sector have been furloughed. To see such large numbers of businesses ready to open again, welcoming back so many staff members so quickly is hugely encouraging. "

She added: “There is still a long way to go and businesses are by no means out of the woods yet. This is a very positive start, though. Getting venues open and customers through the doors means that more jobs will be kept safe. Despite the positive news we need support for those businesses that are still not able to open, and for those whose jobs rely upon them.”

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