‘Fuel shortage’ media reports impact negatively on one third of Welsh businesses
Just over half (56%) reported no impact and only 2% reported a positive impact on their business. Those businesses based in Mid Wales were the most likely to have reported a negative impact with over two fifths (43%) doing so compared to those based in South East Wales (17% reported a negative impact).
High fuel prices were also a reason which one in ten businesses cited as the reason for having fewer guests/ visitors this Easter compared to the Easter in 2011. And while some businesses have not reported a change in their customer numbers they are noticing a change in the customer profile with more local custom compared to previous years.
The survey also explored the issue of incentivisation amongst tourism businesses. Across Wales over two fifths (44%) of businesses used incentives such as price discounting or special offers to encourage more custom. Businesses engaged in serviced accommodation are the most likely to offer incentives with just over half (51%) doing so, compared to attractions where just over a third (34%) offer incentives.
Research method: 606 businesses engaged in tourism across Wales were contacted as part of the Visit Wales Business Tourism Survey on 23rd and 24th April 2012. Quotas were applied on business type (attraction, accommodation type) as well as region.
The full report can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/75znywx
