The expectations of restaurateurs and bar owners were slim, not to say zero, before the announcements of the President of the Republic.
Emmanuel Macron left no room for hope.
During his televised address this Tuesday evening, the Head of State confirmed that these professionals will not be able to resume their activity in the days or in the weeks to come.
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"Below 5,000 cases per day, restaurants and bars will be able to reopen from January 20," defended the Head of State, after announcing the reopening of all non-essential shops on November 28, and places cultural events on December 15, if the health situation is still developing positively.
In addition, Emmanuel Macron also announced a new economic device to help the bosses of the branch, victims of the administrative closure until January 20.
They will be able to benefit from aid equivalent to 20% of their equivalent turnover over the same period in 2019, instead of the 10,000 euros currently promised.
Great concern in the profession
This position is not really surprising.
Since the epidemic began to gain strength in the country, bars and restaurants have been regularly targeted by health restrictions.
For the government, it is accepted that barrier gestures are much more difficult to respect in these places, making any immediate opening impossible.
There is great concern within the profession.
Many business leaders fear they will have to go out of business in the weeks or months to come.
According to a study carried out among the four main federations in the sector, 65.8% of the 6,600 employers questioned fear having to close shop.
In the meantime, all are living on a drip, thanks to state aid that will not be enough to save the entire sector.
The threat of debt is strong.
Starting with that contracted with the State, through guaranteed loans, and which one day or another will have to be assumed.
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