In unprecedented times for the world right now; the impacts of Covid-19 are far-reaching and are being felt personally by us at Millers64 and across the wider hospitality industry. As a small, independent business we thrive on providing personal service to our guests and can’t wait to welcome new and returning visitors in the months and years to come.

While Scotland, and the UK are in the current ‘lockdown’ it gives us time to reflect on how the industry is responding and preparing for when we are able to open our doors again. From initial confusion throughout an evolving situation, its been overwhelming to ensure we’re on top of everything we need to know. Here is our synopsis of what’s happened to date:

THE BIG PLAYERS:
While Online Travel Agents (OTA’s) such as Booking.com and Expedia are there to support small businesses with reaching large numbers of potential guests via their platforms; at times like this there is limited protection for small businesses. Colleagues in the industry have been vocal in highlighting the business practices of OTA’s; leaving 1,000’s of clients out of pocket when changing terms & conditions with no notice, allowing non-refundable bookings to be reimbursed, with no cancellation fees. While we need to ensure consumer protection; overnight many of us lost £££’s of future income without being able to give the guest the option to change date or swap the booking for a voucher.

INDUSTRY CAMPAIGNS:
Each March our sector comes together to celebrate National B&B Week – a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on Millers64 and B&B’s across the country. In 2019 the campaign drove 92 articles in the media, received support from 65 industry partners and even generated a motion in Parliament! While it understandably didn’t take place this year; that hasn’t stopped B&B owners coming together to discuss the current situation and support each other as we share insights on the impacts Covid-19 is having on us all, individually and collectively.

FINANCIALLY SURVIVING THE CRISIS:
I’m not going to lie – it’s an extremely challenging time right now. While class as Self-Employed; B&B owners don’t pay business rates; we’re covered under Council Tax. As such, we’re not entitled to the same Scottish Government grant or financial packages that were initially being offered to those with commercial premises. A further announcement by the Scottish Government (Apr 15th) may now enable us to receive some much-needed financial support though which is very welcome news.  Many of us are encouraging those thinking about a trip later this year to purchase vouchers for the play they’re keen to stay. It will be redeemed against the cost of the trip; and will undoubtedly support lots of B&B’s with operating costs during these challenging times.

WHAT’S NEXT?:
We CANNOT WAIT to welcome guests back to Millers64 – as soon as the Scottish Government and all our public agencies say it’s safe to do so. At our B&B we love adding a personal touch – so we’re spending time finding new baking recipes and getting the garden in order in time for the summer!

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