The UK hospitality industry has quite understandably been affected by the chaos caused by the eruptions of the Icelandic Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

The ongoing uncertainty and fear of delays have resulted in a number of holidaymakers and professionals being forced to rethink their travel plans, with cancellations doubtless causing some headaches amongst firms across the country.

Hoteliers in the capital and other cities with international airports have been most notably affected by the closure of British skies, as they are most reliant upon foreign tourists and short-stay breaks.

That said, the presence of many stranded tourists has offset a significant percentage of the cancelled bookings and much of the industry has managed to adjust in the shorter term.

Del Brett, managing director of Future Inns, which has establishments in Plymouth and Cardiff said: “Whilst we have felt the impact, particularly on our meetings and conferences business, we are fortunate that our hotels are based in regional centres and therefore the impact has been lesser than those businesses in major international destinations such as London.”

The eruptions from the volcano have had a significant effect on the global economy, with the airline industry reporting to have suffered losses of $1.7 billion.

However, as some flights resumed, following the decision of the Civil Aviation Authority which has now authorised a phased reopening of UK airspace, the UK catering and hospitality industry is looking forward to a return to normal operations.

Photo: Henrik Thorburn

Posted by Matt on the 23rd April 2010