British owned bars on Spain’s Costa del Sol turn to fundraiser Go Fund Me In a bid for survival.
Through no fault of their own, British Bars in Spain on the Costa del Sol are fighting for survival.
No tourists, heavy restrictions on Spain from other governments, especially the British, where British owned bars are concerned has reduced established bars and restaurants into a financial meltdown.
Daily on the Costa del Sol bars and restaurants are closing for good whilst others linger on the resale market -reducing prices each week.
Although one owner isn’t giving up and has turned to his loyal customer base for support.
Steve Sangster, who owns the fabulous 76 Bar and Restaurant in Benalmadena, on Spain’s Costa del Sol, has turned to Go Fund Me in an attempt for survival.
After initially calling for custom in an attempt to survive on the 20th of August on their social media channels: “Please come along and support us we need your help to survive the forthcoming weeks -We are open this evening from 7 pm -Friday Saturday and Sunday from 10 am for English breakfast snacks etc continuing through for evening meals and Sunday from 10 -2 for English breakfast.”
It was only 10 days later they were forced to announce closure: “We are sorry to announce that we have had to take the decision to close. This is due to the financial impact of the coronavirus. We hope it will not be for long but we expect to be closed at least through September. We would like to thank everyone that has supported us through this past few months.”
Trade for British establishments has hit rock bottom, it is through no fault of the traders, there just are no customers.
The battle for survival though was not over for Sangster.
Sangster decided to reach out on social media to his loyal customer base spread across Europe and announced:
“Hello to all of our wonderful, loyal supporters.
With the restrictions on travel to Spain, it has been incredibly difficult for the last few months.We have tried to stay positive and have worked hard throughout July and August to stay open. But despite our best efforts without our loyal and lovely customers it has been impossible to cover the expenses.
On September the 1st we had to close our doors, but this, unfortunately, does not solve our problems. With no income since March and no savings left, we are in a financial mess. Unable to pay the basics including rent and electricity etc.
We love this Restaurant and we love our customers. There is no better sound than that of laughter and clinking glasses while people are enjoying each others company and our food.
We don’t want this to be the end for Restaurant and Bar 76, this place has been an institution for many years. And a firm favorite with many of you returning year on year.
Your donations will help pay the costs of our rent, electric and water to enable us to open again. And stay open until this crisis is completely over.
It will help secure the jobs of our 8 employees who have all suffered during this crisis.
Many of you know Hayley, Katrina and Kayleigh, our three fantastic waitress’s. And in the kitchen Ally, Simon, Nico, Paul and Mathew (expecting twins) plus of course ourselves Steven and Teri.
We have invested our heart and soul and life savings into this Restaurant please help us if you can.
The kindness of others always touches me deeply. I can’t explain how much your help will be appreciated. Just to know people care and want to help is amazing.
Please help us so we can share a drink with you and serve you again in the future.
Best Wishes Steven”
Although there is a long way to go, to reach the required target of £10,000
Many blame Boris Johnson and his hard stance quarantine restrictions that our killing off British businesses.
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