SW publisher surveys Covid and coffee shops

JUST about every industry has been hit by the coronavirus pandemic – some more than others. You’d imagine that the sort of businesses which typically serve office-workers and commuters would have been worst hit of all – and yet a new survey, part-funded by a Devon-based publisher, shows that independent cafes and coffee shops have been remarkably successful in their fight for survival.

The survey, staged jointly by the Beverage Standards Association (BSA) and the Independent Coffee Guide, reveals how many small cafes and coffee roasters have managed to thrive in lockdown. “For some it has been resilience, for others it has been pure luck, and for many others it has been the support of the landlord, Government and staff,” comments Nick Cooper of the Independent Coffee Guide, published by Salt Media, a South West based company.

“Independent cafes and roasters are a vital part of our hospitality economy,” adds Steve Slark, BSA chairman. “They provide employment, generate significant tax receipts and provide spaces to reconnect with and revive our pre-pandemic lifestyle. Now, as the economy begins to open up, we’re starting to see how independent cafes and roasters have survived.”

Location and style of outlet has apparently played a huge part in survival. And being small, agile and having a ‘never-say-die attitude’ has been vital for independent businesses. But resilience and forward planning are the two most important watchwords: 84% of the respondents said the pandemic had given them the opportunity to build upon their success, and to look at the future in a positive frame of mind.