An Arizona measure threatens to empty the terraces: “It is discouraging to be constantly the target of binding measures”

A sector already weakened by crises – Arizona measure threatens empty terraces:

For representatives of the sector. For example, this ban would be a new blow for establishments already experienced by successive crises: sanitary, energy and economic. Furthermore, Clubs. However, bars, restaurants and cafes fear a massive loss of their customers, largely made up of smokers: according to them, 40 to 50 % of customers in nighttime establishments are tobacco.

Restaurateurs are convinced of this. In addition, “These customers will not come back if they can no longer have a smoking room or an outdoor space but will come out and smoke elsewhere “. Moreover, What could. Similarly, has Short term, lead to the closure of quantity of establishments, including many emblematic, with direct consequences on employment, nightlife, tourism and local culture, according to the Horeca Brussels federation.

In addition, Matthieu Léonard warns of the overflows that this measure could cause. Moreover, “”Instead of smoking on our terrace, our customers will have to annoy residents around our establishment. And for clubs and nightclubs, it’s even worse“He says. Worse still. the Horeca alerts on the return of tobacco consumed clandestinely inside, which could more penalize non-smokers while creating increased risks for security.

The arizona measure threatens empty terraces: “no-show”. this highly prejudicial phenomenon for our restaurateurs who grows

A text deemed unrealistic by the sector

“Who will control the perimeter of 10 meters around each terrace? Who will inflict the fines? What legal guarantees protect the tenants?” The Horeca Brussels. Brussels by Night Federation wonders in their press release, describing this measure as disconnected from the reality on the ground.

In addition, the two sectors also express their anger concerning the lack of dialogue with the authorities. “”It’s always the same thing, we never meet the person concerned, in this case Franck Vandenbroucke. We are always dealing with his cabinet, who pretends to have an opinion concerned on the issue. It’s exhausting and painful “, underlines Matthieu Léonard.

White Caisses. exclusivity clauses imposed by brewers…: Arizona will tackle certain practices in the Horeca sector

Questioned on this subject, Yasmin Benaissa, manager of arizona measure threatens empty terraces: the La Terrasse brewery, underlines, however, that if measures were to be set up, his establishment would adapt to respect them. “It is already forbidden in Milan, it is that it must be achievable. Yes, the first months may be a little complicated in terms of logistics, but the Belgians are understanding. In France, it would have been a little more complicated” she explains.

While waiting for this measure to be discussed on the Council of Ministers. the President of the Horeca Brussels Federation offers another approach: to leave the establishments the choice to become “tobacco -free” areas or to preserve smoking spaces in accordance with current standards. “”Anyway, we would prefer to do without this measure. It is discouraging to be constantly the target of binding measures “he concludes.