October train strikes will ‘further damage’ sector

20-Sep-2022 - Last updated on 20-Sep-2022 at 14:32 GMT

Knock-on effect: Train strikes, scheduled for next month, will harm sector (Getty/ MStudioImages)

Train strikes, planned to take place in early October, will “further damage” the hospitality sector, which is already suffering from soaring electricity bills, said trade bodies.

Drivers from 12 train companies are expected to strike on 1 and 5 of October. This comes after industrial action planned for 15 September was postponed due to the Queen’s death.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said the rail strikes would do “further damage” to the industry as it struggled with soaring energy bills and a cost-of-living crisis that was causing a loss of consumer confidence.

“With trains out of action, many customers and staff will struggle to get into towns and cities to work or to socialise, dealing an unwelcome blow to the UK’s cafes, pubs, restaurants, cinemas and attractions. We ask all stakeholders to cooperate to prevent any more strikes,” she added.

Suffering sector

The industry is already bearing the brunt of economic challenges including soaring energy costs, the cost-of-living crisis, and rising inflation rates.

Night Time Industries Association chief executive Michael Kill said: “Our industry is suffering heavily from rising costs, with businesses reporting an estimated loss of up to 40% in trade from previous strike activity. 

“Sporadic weekly or daily planned strike action by drivers on the 1 and 5 October will further erode consumer confidence, placing businesses and jobs which are already on the edge at risk."

Aslef, the train drivers’ union, did not comment on the proposed industrial action out of respect for Queen Elizabeth II funeral, the BBC reported.

Suspended sales

However, LNER managing director David Horne tweeted Aslef had notified it of strike action on Saturday 1 October and Wednesday 5 October.

He said LNER had already suspended ticket sales for these dates and would confirm as soon as possible which services would be running.

Train strikes during the summer months “hugely affected” the hospitality sector. Industrial action in June saw a 50% decline in sales at some pubs in London and Manchester.

The industry is already bearing the brunt of economic challenges including soaring energy costs, the cost-of-living crisis, and rising inflation rates.