Covid-19: Jean Castex confirms new aid for hotels, cafes and restaurants

Just before the entry into force of the vaccination pass, the government is stepping up its aid to the hotel, café and restaurant (HCR) sector.

Prime Minister Jean Castex confirmed on Tuesday the creation of “exceptional aid for the payment of employee contributions” for establishments which experience a loss of turnover of at least 30% in January and February.

"I decided to adapt the support systems to this sector to allow it to survive," he said, on the sidelines of a trip to a café in the Opéra district, in Paris (9th arrondissement).

In detail, companies with less than 250 employees will be able to benefit from support for their employee contributions up to 20% of their gross payroll, as requested by the professional unions.

“Salaries represent 40% of the expenses of our establishments, this aid would allow those who suffer to be at least in balance”, welcomes Franck Trouet, spokesperson for the National Group of Independents (GNI).

“Directly impacted” by the restrictions decided by the government

Those who face a loss of more than 65% of their turnover, will be able to obtain total exemption from employer contributions and assistance with the payment of employee contributions of 20%. In addition to the support of the fixed costs of the companies by the State, released from 50% of losses, in force since the beginning of January.

This "adjustment" of aid comes after negotiations between Bercy and representatives of the UNHCR sector in recent days.

The unions deplore being “directly impacted” by the restrictions decided by the government.

They had resulted in “colossal losses” in December, with cascading cancellations (meals and company evenings, etc.).

They anticipated further losses, in January, with the establishment of compulsory telework three days a week, and in the coming weeks with the application of the vaccination pass.

"They have been very strongly impacted by the health measures", agreed Jean Castex, before recalling his responsibility to continue to "take protective measures for our fellow citizens".