“Almost half the potential visitors to the UK are concerned about the foot and mouth outbreak,” said a spokesman for the British Tourist Authority, as he explained why tourism figures and spending in the UK has plummeted this year.
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In April, spending by foreign tourists had dropped by 22% on the previous year, and experts predict a similar decline in figures for May and June. Hotels, restaurants and theatres are all reporting a significant slump in sales, and BTA spokesman Jo Leslie continued: “As many people have heard of foot and mouth as have heard of Coke.”
Last week, upmarket restaurant chain Groupe Chez Gerard issued a profit warning on the back of the foot and mouth crisis. CEO David Williams commented: “We believe tourism has collapsed and I don’t think anybody is immune from the impact.”
