Easter weekend could be 'make or break' for Northamptonshire's small business, says group
Visit England estimate the UK economy will get a boost of nearly £2 billion, from the four day bank holiday
Last updated 1st Apr 2024
A group representing businesses in Northamptonshire is telling us that the Easter weekend could be "make or break" for many of our county's smaller firms.
Visit England estimate the UK economy will get a boost of nearly £2 billion from the four day bank holiday, with 6.5 million thought to be making trips during this time.
"For many their costs are still really high"
Candy Richards is from the Federation of Small Businesses in the East:
"It's a time to get those tills ringing; things have been slow for many small businesses because households are being more cautious where they're spending," she said.
"So it's the first time that firms will be hoping for an increase in custom, this year.
"We know that inflation is falling.
"But for many their costs are still really high. I was speaking to a restaurant owner last week who said that her energy costs are double what they were a couple of years ago."
"They've got less money to spend"
Candy told us that smaller firms are feeling upbeat.
"From the first of April, many businesses are going to see their staff bills increase, (due to the increase in national living); small businesses are optimistic but they are also facing some tough times," she added.
"For many they will be seeing this Easter Weekend as 'make or break'. They are nervous and cautious about the road ahead. Interest rates are still high, it means that mortgages and rents are continuing to go up, meaning that they've got less money to spend."