The Mancunian Way: ‘Hit from every side’

Bury: Johanne and Dave Banks have been through the wringer trying to keep their restaurant afloat. They’ve hosted Halloween events, craft nights, and even brought in live acts. But despite their efforts, they couldn’t fend off the financial storm.

Their place, Crowded House, has now shut down, a victim of rising costs and changing customer habits. It’s a heartbreaking tale that many in Manchester can relate to. As chocolatier Slattery warned recently, “nobody is safe” in this climate.

So, what’s making life so tough for restaurants? Jenna Campbell, our What’s On editor, pointed out that the hospitality sector has faced a slew of challenges lately. From the pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis, it feels like they’re getting hit from all angles.

Looking ahead, Jenna mentioned that tax hikes and changes to business rates are looming large. In her first budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced increases in National Insurance and the National Living Wage, along with cuts to business rates support. These changes, starting in April, could make it impossible for some eateries to keep their doors open.

The Damhouse tearoom in Astley is another casualty, having announced its closure this week. Owners are trying to avoid passing costs onto customers, but they might not have a choice without more government help.

Despite the gloomy outlook, Jenna remains hopeful. If consumers have a bit more cash thanks to the budget, they might be inclined to dine out more. She’s seen how resilient and optimistic many in Manchester’s hospitality scene are, even when times are tough.

Some owners are making tough calls, like scaling back on expansion or leaving positions unfilled just to get by. But many are also looking forward to a strong festive season and are optimistic that spring will bring more customers.

The big question is how to turn things around. Jenna suggests supporting local businesses whenever possible. The cost-of-living crisis has hit both consumers and businesses hard, but if we don’t rally behind our local spots, we risk losing the unique charm of our towns and cities.

Even small gestures, like grabbing a coffee or buying a restaurant voucher for a friend, can make a big difference. So, let’s do our part to keep our favorite places thriving! You can check out Jenna’s in-depth piece on Manchester’s hospitality scene for more insights.