Hotels are now adopting new survival strategies. Tribune photo

Tribune News Service
Amritsar, December 11

The night curfew extended by the government till January 1 has put a brake on the business prospects of the hospitality sector, which was gradually picking up post lockdown.

The restriction on movement at night has forced hotel and restaurant owners to change their strategy and make best use of the afternoon hours. Capitalising on hi-tea events and early dinners, hotels, especially large chains and franchisees were now looking for survival marketing.

Manisha Singh Gupta, assistant marketing manager, Holiday Inn, said, “There had been several shifts in the eating hours. Our sky restaurant ‘Aqua lounge’, which was earlier opened for dinner, is now functional from afternoon to early evening due to the night curfew. The shift is now towards evening events.”

The concept of brunch was never really successful in the city despite being a food destination. So, the hotels started focusing on offering theme-based early dinners.

Akshina, manager, Hyatt Regency, said, “Brunch is a not popular in the city and we have low footfall for munch as well. Dinner attracted the most footfall. But given the situation, we are providing several theme-based early dinner with live music and outdoor setting. Covid-19 will have a long-term impact on the business.”

Standalone properties were faring better. Nikhil Khemka, owner, Clubhouse, said adaptibility was the key to survival, especially in Amritsar’s food business.

“A standalone restaurant will not be able to make it if the management does not change or adapt to the post- lockdown scenario. We were primarily a party place and offered food service throughout the night. But post lockdown, we shifted our focus to banquet services and short parties with limited guests. The night curfew is definitely going to hit hard, but we are trying to make the most of it,” said Khemka.

Another concern of the hotel owners is that the night curfew would hamper business during the New Year’s eve. “The business is maximum on the New Year’s eve and the night curfew means that we will have to cancel all the parties and plans we usually offer to our guests,” said Gupta.