Commenting on Wales moving to Alert Level 2, Ben Francis, FSB Wales Policy Chair, said:
“There continues to be encouraging news for businesses as Wales moves to Alert Level 2 – particularly for Wales’ hospitality sector which will now be able to trade indoors. Next Tuesday represents an important day for an industry which has struggled for so long under restrictions and many will be excited at the prospect of re-opening and increasing their capacity to do business
“Many firms will however remain inhibited and will need support over the coming weeks – which is why the latest extension to the Economic Resilience Fund will be welcome. As has long been the case, speed and accessibility of funding will be key for firms who have not accessed financial support since March and will be relying on it to survive.
“We know that beyond this initial phase of reopening there will be a need for further support. Opportunities for businesses to trade profitably will remain dampened as we move through the period of reopening and we are pleased that Welsh Government has recognised that with further funding put aside. We would welcome the opportunity to sit down with Welsh Government and help that funding get to the businesses where it is needed the most.
“We know that there are concerns about new variants and the impact that this could potentially have in Wales and that is something that Wales’ business community will take incredibly seriously. However, this unlocking has to go well in order to secure the future of thousands of businesses, the jobs that they create and our economy that relies on them. That places an important obligation on all of us to ensure that we comply with the measures that businesses require of us; wearing a mask, meeting in groups of six and taking part in Track and Trace alongside any other measures that a business may put in place to keep us all safe.”
“We are encouraged by the First Minister’s optimism based on the progress made and look forward to seeing whether Wales will be in a position to move to Alert Level 1 in June. We look forward to working with the new Economy Minister on a bold plan to help stabilise and secure businesses in the coming weeks and months.”