‘In mid-April, we published the results of a survey on the economic situation in the industry, which included responses from 3,175 hospitality entrepreneurs. It’s clear that the hotel and hospitality industry is facing major problems. Our survey shows that restaurateurs and hoteliers experienced an average of 5.7% decrease in turnover in March compared with the previous year. Even the crucial Easter business was slow. Businesses have to cope not only with declining sales but also with high food costs, personnel expenses and energy costs, as well as, in some cases, increased rent. Businesses are being hit particularly hard by the value added tax increase on food and ever more bureaucracy. Now, more than ever, it is important to secure the future of the industry. We urge policymakers to take pressure off the industry and thus provide it with new opportunities.’