The entire HoReCa industry in Romania had estimated revenues of EUR 5 billion last year, and this year it will record losses of approximately EUR 3 billion, of which EUR 1 billion represents losses for hoteliers alone, according to calculations by representatives of the Alliance For Tourism (APT).
They state that the state aid promised by the government amounts to EUR 130 million, which is insufficient to compensate for losses more than 20 times higher.
Dragos Anastasiu, spokesperson for APT, says that in order to continue, tourism requires a partnership with the state and urgent assistance from it.
“Beyond proposals and promises of aid from the Government, nothing has happened yet. Restaurants are closed indoors, and we expect terraces to no longer be able to operate from mid-November. The hotel industry is currently operating at less than 10% capacity. We expect some hoteliers to close, at least temporarily,” Anastasiu stated.
Calin Ile stated that approximately 70-80% of hotels have no reason to remain open in the coming months.
Dragos Anastasiu believes that if support measures arrive next year, it will be too late for many companies, and only a portion of those currently operating will survive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the estimated losses for the Romanian HoReCa sector in 2020?The HoReCa industry is estimated to lose approximately EUR 3 billion in 2020, with EUR 1 billion attributed specifically to the hotel sector.
Is the promised state aid sufficient for the industry?No, industry representatives state that the EUR 130 million in promised aid is insufficient to cover losses that are more than 20 times higher than the support offered.
What is the current operating capacity of hotels in Romania?The hotel industry is currently operating at less than 10% capacity, and experts suggest that up to 80% of hotels have no economic reason to stay open in the near future.