Breaking news: all hospitality venues in the Netherlands now also closed due to coronavirus
Following Italy, Spain and Belgium, hospitality venues in the Netherlands are now also closing due to coronavirus.
It was already expected, and now it has finally happened. To prevent the further spread of coronavirus, the cabinet has just decided that hospitality establishments must close their doors after all. The measure takes effect today from 18:00.
From fewer than 100 people to 0
Prime Minister Mark Rutte previously announced that all events with more than 100 people throughout the Netherlands would be cancelled. But certain social activities, such as eating out at restaurants, were still allowed. According to Rutte, people had to assess that risk themselves.
Huge blow to the hospitality industry
The hospitality industry was already struggling with an increased number of cancellations and the resulting loss of income due to coronavirus. Research by Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN) into the influence of coronavirus on the hospitality industry, conducted among nearly 4,000 hospitality entrepreneurs, showed before Rutte’s first press conference that 55% were experiencing more cancellations of existing reservations than usual. In addition, they reported an average loss of 33% in turnover as a result of the advice and measures. This measure will remain in force at least until and including 6 April 2020.
Takeaway restaurants are also being forced to close their doors. Delivery is still allowed.
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