I first saw Karl speak at an event in March where I was impressed by some of the insights and data that he and the CGA team had collated.  It was nice to see so many of the thoughts and impressions that I had of the sector backed up by some scientific data and commentary.

Now seemed like the perfect time to put some data behind the theory of what re-opening may look like.

Karl and I go on a bit of a journey in this conversation, and it is worth noting that it was recorded about a week before Boris confirmed the 4th of July opening date.

We start with some analysis of what was going on in hospitality pre covid.  As a result of coming out of the period of political stalemate and uncertainty with regards brexit, and a decisive election result, executive confidence levels in hospitality were the highest they had been for many years.

Ironically 77 percent of the sector were concerned about labour shortages, not the potential layoff of 2 million colleagues.

We then touch on some of the data around consumer behaviour during lockdown and move on to what Karl and his team have seen in both the USA, china and other countries who are starting to re-open their doors.

And then it’s post covid and are there any clues as to what we can expect and what we should be focusing on as a sector.  I personally was pleased that the consumer does not seem to be wanting a sterile operating theatre with everyone behind screens and masks. Personally for me that is not hospitality.  

Karl gives out some advice on what he thinks operators should focus on and and we agree to touch base again in a few months and see what we’ve all learnt.

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