The Irish Spa Association calls for a VAT reduction to 5% until the end of 2021 among other necessary urgent supports and considerations in the Budget 2020
According to a recent Irish Spa Association survey, 80% of Irish Spas and Salons are experiencing a sharp decline in revenues, with three quarters of businesses reporting over 30% of a decline in revenues.
Despite not one known outbreak being attributed to Irish Beauty Salons and Spas, the threat of closure in recent days and level 4 restrictions looming are severely impacting an already stretched sector.
The hair and beauty sector makes a significant contribution that is valued at €2.79 Billion in terms of GDP. This is an industry seriously impacted by COVID 19. It is a labour-intensive sector that supported 25,800 jobs at the end of 2019.
Regional restrictions, and the uncertainty around travel, hospitality, tourism, family gatherings and events have severely impacted consumer confidence and the ability of many businesses to plan and secure the necessary business to keep going.
“We have been most grateful to former Minister for Business Enterprise and Innovation Heather Humphreys for all her consideration in supporting our sector this year and enabling our sector to reopen on an earlier timeline, and we are now urging Minister for Finance Paschal Donohue and Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Michael McGrath to not underestimate the importance of business continuity within our sector and the protection of the 25,800+ people employed across the industry,” commented Anita Murray of The Irish Spa Association.
According to a recent HABIC report, the impact of the 15 weeks of closures amounted to the region of €580m in lost turnover. These businesses are doing everything to survive and keep the sector buoyant
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted or halted critical mental health services globally and the demand for mental health support is increasing according to a new WHO survey. The survey of 130 countries provides the first global data showing the devastating impact of COVID-19 on people’s wellbeing and mental health and underscores the urgent need for continued support and relief for Ireland’s spas and wellness professionals.
It comes as no surprise then that massage therapy is the no 1 most requested treatment in Ireland’s salons and spas at the moment, an indication that we are all a little stressed out.
