Easter weekend could be "make or break" for Suffolk'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
A group representing small businesses in Suffolk is telling us that the Easter weekend could be "make or break" for many of our county's small businesses
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 Richard 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. 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"
"The cost of things like steak have doubled in the last year. Furthermore, from the first of April, many businesses are going to see their staff bills increase, (due to the increase in the National Living). Small businesses are optimistic but they are also facing some tough times".
"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".