86% of workers fear restaurants will not reopen post-pandemic: survey

Respondents also call for improved business models.

Concerns for the future of the restaurant industry remain evident, with 86% of industry workers fearing restaurants will not reopen after the crisis, according to Fine Dining Lovers’ Coronavirus Restaurant Survey.

23% believe an entire overhaul of the industry is required, with only 27% believing their governments provided “adequate” support for the industry.

Over half of restaurant professionals said they anticipate the financial situation to worsen over the next six months.

Of those currently employed, 72% expressed fears of losing their jobs because of the pandemic.

65% of those surveyed agreed that chefs would play a “vital role” in reinventing the restaurant business, coupled with the findings that 69% of consumers stated they would rely on safety measures taken by restaurants, more than relying on measures taken by governments.

Opinions in terms of how the industry will rebuild were varied, with 69% of respondents calling for improved business models, 48% called for better unemployment benefits, 42% for extra support and stimulus packages from governments.

“This solid data will allow restaurant owners to understand the impact of lockdowns and habits of consumers allowing much more educated decisions when looking at adapting business models.” said Ryan King of Fine Dining Lovers.

Undertaken globally last May, the survey had over 10,000 responses from both consumers and industry professionals.