East Antrim seeking ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ winter boost

The return of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme would boost business in Mid and East Antrim during winter months, according to a manager in a leading hotel chain.
Norman McBride, general manager, of Ballygally Castle Hotel.Norman McBride, general manager, of Ballygally Castle Hotel.
Norman McBride, general manager, of Ballygally Castle Hotel.

Norman McBride, general manager of Ballygally Castle Hotel, said that last month’s government initiative should be repeated and would encourage more visitors to the Antrim Coast.

Commenting on the scheme which was aimed at providing a timely boost for the hospitality sector following lockdown, Mr McBride said: “The Eat Out to Help Out scheme was a great success for Ballygally Castle with our dining options fully booked throughout the day and into the evening.

“It was a welcome bonus to our thriving weekend business throughout August.

“It was great to see guests enjoying themselves once again, new faces, regular faces and indeed some faces we haven’t seen in a while. I’d like to thank our guests for the support we have received since reopening and look forward to welcoming them back soon.

“We would really welcome the return of the scheme in the winter months when it’s traditionally a quieter period for all businesses in the Mid and East Antrim area.

“If it was repeated, it would be a great boost, particularly during October and November and would definitely encourage people to book a winter staycation to rediscover the stunning coast.”

Seventy-nine restaurants signed up to the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme in East Antrim (read more here).

Customers ate their way through 94,000 meals since the government initiative was launched on August 3.

The scheme allowed diners to eat for up to half price, Monday to Wednesday, at participating venues during August.

In East Antrim, restaurant and cafe owners claimed for discount of £548,000 from the government at an average discount of £5.82 per meal.

In Northern Ireland overall, 2,207 eateries participated in the scheme, claiming for almost three million meal discounts and £16m discount overall.

Retail NI  Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: “Many restaurants and businesses will keep the offer going.

“I think we have already seen that a number of local restaurants are carrying it on throughout the month of September as it has been a great success.

“It has brought support to many struggling businesses and I think it bodes well for the future.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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