More than 90% of rural business owners are confident they can reopen safely after Covid-19 restrictions are lifted, according to a new report.
The survey of 250 firms, carried out by Scottish Land and Estates (SLE), found 56% are confident they can reopen all of their business safely, while 36% are confident part of their business can restart while adhering to social distancing measures.
The businesses questioned ranged from the tourism to farming sectors, with little variation in confidence. However, those involved in the food and drink industry and hospitality were slightly less confident about being able to safely open.
“This survey confirms that rural businesses are ready to help restart Scotland’s rural economy safely,” said SLE chief executive Sarah-Jane Laing.
“Over 90% of rural businesses who responded to our survey are confident they can maintain social distancing measures if they reopen all or part of their business. Our members want to ensure that their employees, visitors, customers and the local community remain safe and they are confident they can do this.”
SLE said it will use the results of its survey as it works with the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise and regional enterprise bodies to safely restart Scotland’s rural economy.
But Ms Laing warned that long-term, social distancing measures could damage the businesses’ sustainability.
She said: “Limiting visitor numbers at tourist attractions, holiday accommodation and weddings and reducing manufacturing or processing means many rural businesses will not be operating at full capacity.
“Add in the uncertainty around Brexit and trade deals and all of this is likely to result in a loss of income which could jeopardise jobs in rural areas.
“The true extent of the cost of this pandemic will be ongoing for the foreseeable future and support will need to adjust to those challenges, too.
“That’s why the Scottish Government needs to commit to future support to help rural Scotland thrive.”
