As it has already become known, the new trend among hoteliers in our country is to give up all-inclusive, said the deputy chairman of the Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant Association (BHRA) Atanas Dimitrov, BTA reports.
According to him, about 10 percent of the entrepreneurs in the sector are switching to this option as a pilot. Other options are being discussed – to offer customers only breakfast, or breakfast and dinner, added Dimitrov. According to him, it is necessary to find the golden mean in order to satisfy the guests, some of whom prefer to eat at the hotel.
All-inclusive is convenient for the end customer, but it is not expedient for businessmen, was Dimitrov’s opinion. According to him, this type of service leads to a lot of food wastage, which is economically unprofitable. It is also the cause of excess energy costs, wages, and more serious environmental pollution. Regarding the idea of raising VAT for restaurants, Dimitrov commented that this would make the Bulgarian tourist product uncompetitive. He was adamant that BHRA members have many arguments against such a step and have already informed the Minister of Tourism of their position.
He added that it is a misconception that this business is very profitable. It is a “showcase”, it can be seen that many people come, but not the expenses, which are imperative and very high, explained the deputy chairman of the BHRA. And he specified that only the wages of the workers in the branch have tripled in a few years because the owners are trying to retain their staff.
and the passing summer season, Dimitrov indicated that it was slightly better than last year, but with worse indicators compared to (pre-pandemic, note ed.) 2019. According to him, the turnover has increased, but the increased costs and inflation have “eaten” the profits. Things in tourism are too complicated to make simple decisions like raise taxes and fix everything, Dimitrov also commented. And he called on the rulers to seek the expertise of the industry before imposing decisions.
