Norfolk tourist rep says half-term crucial for our region's small businesses
This part of the county's economy is estimated to be worth £3 billion a year, according to local decision-makers
A man that represents tourist attractions in Norfolk is telling us that this bank holiday and the upcoming half-term is crucial for our region's small businesses.
This part of the county's economy is estimated to be worth £3 billion a year, according to local decision-makers. With 40 million visiting East Anglia over this time as well.
"Businesses have to find money for that from somewhere"
Ben Marshall is also managing director of Pensthorpe, in Fakenham:
He told us what the consequences could be if business doesn't boom over this period:
"Most businesses that I know in the area are independently run and reinvest their profits back into the attraction to have a better offer for customers and to support their staff.
"So if it doesn't go well, it will stop growth now and impact their ability to do so in the future, as well.
"Many are still recovering from the lingering impacts of the COVID pandemic. Many have had to take out loans and pay them back.
"We've just had a 9% wage increase, it's understandable when you consider the cost of living pressures, but businesses have to find money for that from somewhere.
"So if they don't generate it, it's really going to halt their plans for the business".