Half term rail strikes to cost hospitality £132m

A fresh wave of rail strikes will affect train journeys across the country this week. Ongoing pay disputes between the Government and the ASLEF and RMT unions will see staff walk out on Wednesday 31 May, Friday 2 and Saturday 3 June. There is also an overtime ban for ASLEF drivers on Thursday 1 June.

The strikes, which are set to impact half term travel as well as the FA Cup final this weekend, will see train services across the country either greatly reduced or brought to a complete standstill. Main intercity and commuter services around England as well as some cross-border services in Scotland and Wales will be impacted.

UKHospitality has warned the strikes will impact the start of the busy summer period for the sector, and once again reiterated its calls for all parties to redouble their efforts to reach a resolution to the ongoing rail disruption.

“The May half term normally represents a bumper week for hospitality, with typically sunny weather encouraging families to head out on activities, visits and staycations. Unfortunately, we’ve seen time and time again that rail strikes put a significant dampener on any sales as visitors are deterred from booking visits or eating and drinking out,” says Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality. 

“This time around that means families staying at home and football fans travelling to the capital for the FA Cup final disrupted.

“That disruption throughout the week will cost £132m to the sector, bringing the total impact of the year-long strikes to an eye-watering £3.25bn.

“It’s critical for the public, workers and businesses that there is a resolution in this dispute as soon as possible. I would urge all involved to get back round the negotiating table for constructive discussions to reach an agreement.”