Leap in the dark boosts coffers

NIGHT SPEND BOOMS

TASMANIA’S night- time economy is surging past the national average in a big win for the state’s restaurants, bars and entertainment venues with high hopes it’s only just getting started.

New figures from Ingenium Research show nighttime businesses represent 5.2 per cent of all establishments in Tasmania, compared to a 4.7 per cent average across Australia in the 2016-17 period.

The report, commissioned by the Council of Capital City Lord Mayors, shows that night-time businesses account for 9.4 per cent of the state’s employment, with a 4.1 per cent sales turnover.

This compares favourably to the national average. The report shows nighttime businesses nationally account for 8.9 per cent of employment with a 3.8 per cent turnover.

There was an overall 8.3 per cent increase in employment within night-time business on the back of a new drinking establishments being built across the state, which the report said “could signify a potential resurgence for the sub-sector following a steady decline over the last few years”.

Tasmanian Hospitality Association boss Steve Old said the hospitality industry had matured and was ready to reap the rewards.

“It’s credit to the hospitality industry, the State Government and the police for making Tasmania a safe night-time economy,” he said.

“You can’t be batting above the national average unless you have a safe night-time economy.”

Mr Old said the state’s hospitality industry was the envy of the nation with events such as Dark Mofo credited with turning around Tasmania’s sleepy state reputation.

“We need to keep doing what we’re doing and get quality venues, quality operators and make sure we promote all the good things about Tasmania,” he said.

“I want to see our industry invest and continue to create jobs for Tasmanians.”

The report showed in Hobart there had been a 10 per cent increase in food businesses.

The Hobart area saw a 4 per cent increase in employment and sales turnover.

Federal Group Tourism executive food and beverage manager Hugh Whitehouse, who oversees Saffire Freycinet, Henry Jones Art Hotel and MACq 01, said Tasmania’s successful wine and whisky industries were helping generate interest in our bars.