Turnberry insists positive times ahead despite impact of Covid
President’s son Eric issues confident bulletin over resort’s future
The family of Donald Trump say they remain “fully committed” to the ongoing redevelopment of his resort despite a turbulent year of trading against the backdrop of coronavirus.
The President’s son, Eric, said the Carrick resort’s ownership remained focused on “additional planning for further redevelopments”.
It comes as Turnberry posted losses of more than £ 2.3 million in 2019, according to its latest accounts.
In documents filed at Companies House, the hotel and golf courses reported turnover of £ 19,667,000 for a loss of £ 2,307,000.
Eric Trump, though, insisted the long term future remained wholly positive once the impacts of Covid could be navigated.
He said: “Under the ownership of the Trump Organisation, Trump Turnberry has clearly established itself as Scotland’s premier destination for luxury travel, championship golf and special events.
“As part of an ongoing multi- million pound renovation, ownership continues to improve and modernise the property’s facilities including nearly upgraded villas, enhanced spa and wellness offerings fully completed in 2020.
“Ownership remains fully committed to the resort and additional planning for further redevelopments is ongoing.”
Trump added that the pandemic posed “unprecedented” risks to the business.
He added: “The severity of the impact on the golf, leisure and hospitality industry is unprecedented and was not forseen at the beginning of the pandemic.
“The extent of the impact of COVID- 19 on the company’s business and financial results will depend on the duration and spread of the outbreak and the related impact on consumer confidence and spending, all of which are highly uncertain in the current environment.
“Compounded by the uncertainty of Brexit in 2021, the hospitality sector globally is facing unprecedented challenges.”
But he insisted: “Management has monitored the situation closely and adjusted consumer package offerings to attract ‘ staycations’ from UK guests impacted by foreign travel restrictions.
“The directors believe the resort’s profitability will be positively impacted in the long- term as a result of operational adjustments enacted to address these risks.”
Turnberry employed 541 people during the year who were paid a total of £ 9.8 million.
After entering the White House, Donald Trump passed on control of his business interests to sons Eric and Don Jr, with Eric taking the lead role at Turnberry.