The UK hospitality sector, including food markets, cafés, pubs, restaurants, and hotels, experienced a remarkable turnaround last year.
According to recent reports, there was an impressive surge in both domestic and international visitors, resulting in significant growth.
"These figures mark a turning point for tourism in Scotland, showing not only recovery, but crucially growth in international visitors, with number of visits and spend now above 2019 levels."
Malcolm Roughead
Inbound tourism alone saw an increase of approximately 20% compared to 2019 levels, with a total spend of £8.5bn, surpassing pre-pandemic figures.
The food sector, consisting of markets, cafés, and pubs, reported a rise in sales by over 10%, as people embraced the vibrant culinary scene.
Hostels, an essential part of budget accommodation, welcomed more guests than ever before with a growth rate of 25%.
The hospitality sector's revival was not limited to food and accommodation; the leisure industry also flourished.
Theme parks, museums, art galleries, and other tourist attractions witnessed increased footfall, contributing to the overall tourism economy.
Major brands such as Pizza Hut, McDonald's, and Burger King continued their expansion in the UK market, with new stores opening in strategic locations.
The growth in the hospitality sector led to a significant increase in employment opportunities, particularly for young people, providing valuable work experience.
In the hotel sector, four-star properties reported the highest demand, as travelers sought comfort and convenience.
Domestic tourism also played a crucial role in the sector's recovery, with staycations becoming increasingly popular due to affordability and convenience.
The UK hospitality industry's resilience was further demonstrated through the return of international tourists, particularly from North America and Europe.
The remarkable progress of the UK hospitality sector, which includes food markets, cafés, pubs, restaurants, and hotels, is projected to carry on well into 2024 and beyond. This optimistic outlook stems from the industry's commitment to fostering innovation, promoting sustainability, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.