Consumers can expect a mixed bag this Easter

7 April 2004
Media Release
Available for immediate use

Hospitality consumers can expect a mixed bag this Easter

Some patrons looking for open hospitality venues charging normal rates may have quite a search on their hands this Easter weekend.

“About 60% of members responding to a Hospitality Association survey will either close or apply a surcharge on the statutory holidays”, says Bruce Robertson, chief executive of HANZ.

“It’s a predictable mixed bag of attitudes from our members for Easter weekend following the Government’s Holidays Act changes,” he said

The survey shows that some operators will trade as normal, some will trade with fewer staff, and others will charge diners a surcharge and 16% will close altogether on the statutory holidays.

These operators have decided that the cost of time and a half plus an alternative day off are too high to justify opening.

The 21% intending to open and operate with fewer staff may be run off their feet.

Bruce Robertson, the HANZ chief executive, says this option is of real concern.

“The potential for a reduction in customer service is very real because premises that are open can expect to be busier to compensate for those that are closed”.

Mr Robertson says that 24% are going to apply a surcharge to recover the extra costs resulting from the changes to the Holidays Act. The proposed surcharges average around 13%.

He says he’s surprised that 40% intend to trade as normal because in doing so they may well operate at a loss.

ENDS

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