Wales Lockdown Is "Nothing Short Of Devastating For Businesses"
Companies had little time to prepare for the lockdown which came in at midnight.
Last updated 20th Dec 2020
Businesses across Wales are coming to terms with the news that they're having to shut their businesses for a number of weeks as we enter another lockdown.
There's a call from the Federation of Small Businesses in Wales for the Welsh Government to provide support for companies as soon as possible.
Ben Francis, FSB Wales Policy Chair, said: "Clearly these are very difficult times for Wales and there is a significant amount of concern in all areas about the continuing rise of coronavirus.
"Closing down businesses now, when non-essential retail and hospitality firms are trying desperately to maximise whatever opportunities they can from the pre-Christmas period (ordinarily their most important time of year), is nothing short of devastating for thousands of businesses across Wales.
"Today’s announcement means that many businesses will be left with substantial stock that reflects a financial liability for them, and we will be looking to speak to Welsh Government about how businesses can be supported in the coming days.
"This situation creates a new level of urgency for businesses to receive funding from Welsh Government upon which they will be heavily reliant. Welsh Government must respond by bringing forwards payment of the fund that was outlined yesterday in order to help businesses survive.
"We would urge Welsh Government to engage closely with Wales’ business community in the coming days and take whatever steps possible to help them navigate this latest storm."