The catering industry has been in crisis since the beginning of the crown epidemic, and so far there is no end in sight. With the first relaxation of the federal government, restaurants, pubs and cafes were excluded. “A great disappointment,” scolded the German Association of Gastronomy and Hotels at BILD.
McDonald’s chief in Germany Holger Beeck also demands a perspective on gastronomy from politicians and supports Dehoga’s demand to reduce VAT uniformly to 7 percent.
McDonald’s also had to close some of its restaurants.Photo: Witters
“Such a reduction over five years would create the much-needed confidence,” Beeck said on BILD LIVE. “Then everyone knows that it is worth going through the difficult phase. Without this perspective, Germany threatens to lose its wide gastronomic panorama “.
At McDonald’s, you expect “it will take two years for the restaurant market to return to the pre-Corona level.”
Beeck explains: “Even after a gradual opening, it will take time for people to go out to eat regularly again. City centers will never be crowded again, let alone train stations or even airports. There can also be new waves of infection at any time. “
In other crowded places, like train stations, airports, or highway service stations, operating a restaurant makes no sense, says the McDonald’s boss at BILD LIVE. However, if the restaurants remain closed for six weeks, you expect numerous layoffs as a result of a wave of insolvency in the industry.
McDonald’s boss Holger BeeckPhoto: dpa picture alliance
Without the VAT reduction and additional direct government aid, Dehoga anticipates that one in three catering businesses in Germany will face financial disruptions: around 70,000 restaurants, pubs, hotels, pensions and nightclubs.
Political support
Federal Economy Minister Peter Altmaier (61, CDU) said in BILD am SONNTAG: “And it is clear that we will also need additional help here so that most companies do not give up and disappear from the market.” Altmaier called the VAT fall to 7 percent a “proposal that deserves careful consideration.” And furthermore: “But you could also imagine concrete help with modernization and cost savings.”
Federal Finance Minister Olaf Scholz (60 years, SPD) also promises help: “Of course, we look closely to see if we need additional help and where. Above all, we take into account those sectors for which things are not starting quickly. The hotel and restaurant industry is certainly one of them, “said Scholz of the” Welt am Sonntag. “
According to Scholz, a subsequent stimulus package could include tax incentives for companies to invest, so that “anyone who still has doubts can quickly take the money in hand.” In addition, there could be steps to “stimulate the enthusiasm of citizens for consumption,” said the Vice Chancellor.
The CSU wants to increase the demand for a VAT reduction in the next coalition committee.
Secretary General Markus Blume (45, CSU) on BILD am SONNTAG: “7 percent must now come in the coalition. Tax relief guarantees a beneficial effect for all consumers and hosts. We can also use it to secure hundreds of thousands of jobs in the catering industry. ”
CDU board member Christian Baldauf (45) said: “The fall in VAT to 7 percent could at least partially offset the high losses in the industry. At the latest during the next federal and state government discussion in late April, the focus should be on our hospitality businesses. You cannot overcome the crown crisis alone. ”
Photo: Witters