South East England Development Agency (SEEDA)

Free hospitality and tourism business Guide

Release date: 28 July 2009

Business Link and Tourism South East have produced a Guide for business owners in the hospitality and tourism sector as individuals, businesses and families cut back on perceived ‘luxury' services in light of the economic downturn. The survival and long term health of this industry, which generated around £10.5 billion in expenditure last year and accounts for 300,000 jobs in the region, is vital.

Business Link and Tourism South East urge businesses involved in this sector to review their operations and find ways to respond to changing levels of demand.  The Guide suggests ways for business owners to make improvements to their enterprises so that they can be in the best shape to retain and attract more customers.

The 16 page Guide is focused on key challenges and opportunities for the sector such as – managing cash flow; mitigating increases in costs; reviewing supplier agreements and undertaking training to improve customer service.

Tourism companies which have benefited from free support from Business Link include:

• The New Steine Hotel, Brighton , which had a free environmental audit, arranged by Business Link, and is now saving money on its energy bills.
• Enchanted Manor which was renovated by the owners and has achieved industry awards as recognition of their hard work.
• Hooley-Sha-Mooli, a sole trader in catering who took advantage of free Business Link workshops for help with finance and running a business.

To get hold of a free copy call 0845 600 9 006 or go to http://www.businessquestionsanswered.co.uk/hospitalityandtourism.

Michael Bedingfield, Chief Executive, Tourism South East, explains, “This is an excellent Business Link Guide for businesses in tourism and hospitality sectors. It's a concise manual with useful information about actions and decisions about how to run your business to cope in these uncertain times. ”

Business owners can also book a business review to assess the strengths, issues and opportunities for the business, and get an independent assessment of their current situation. For more information, call 0845 600 9 006.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Francesca Fogell, Business Link Regional PR Executive,
Tel: 01483 713343
Email: Francesca.fogell@businesslinksurrey.co.uk

The Guide is available to download or by post, please call Business Link on 0845 600 9 006 or go to http://www.businessquestionsanswered.co.uk/hospitalityandtourism

Subscribe to our news feed