Businessman warns of ‘natural cull’ as trading still tough for city’ s hospitality firms

The impressive economic figures are despite ongoing challenges that have prompted talk that a “natural cull” may be under way in Aberdeen.

Three hospitality businesses have shut this month alone – the Ciao Napoli and Albyn restaurants and chef Nick Nairn’s cooking school.

Mr Nairn blamed the oil and gas woes for the closure of his business, which first opened in 2012.

Adrian Gomes, chief executive of Aberdeen-based cocktail catering firm 10 Dollar Shake, and also head bartender at the Tippling House, said yesterday a rise in the number of chain restaurants and hotels just as the downturn struck was causing problems.

“Over-capacity had made the local hospitality market more challenging,” he said, adding: “People are spending less and going out less.

“At the same time you’re spreading the same amount of money among a lot more firms. Ultimately, what will happen in Aberdeen is there will be this natural cull when people realise their business model is no longer sustainable. This is possibly the start of it.”

While independent business may be facing “tough market conditions”, Mr Gomes said initiatives focused on tourism and festivals were boosting the city. City centre manager Geoff Cooper, of Aberdeen Inspired, said it was “too early to say” if the city was past the oil downturn.

Mr Cooper added: “Hospitality businesses are facing particular pressures.

“I suspect it’s not so much to do with oil and gas but other pressures, such as business rate costs and other fixed overheads. It’s a very difficult time.”

Adrian Gomes