Esther Lauaki
By Esther Lauaki
A Keilor East restaurant owner is calling on the community to keep supporting local businesses as they struggle under extended lockdown restrictions.
Kit Houston, of Houston’s Barbecue, said he fears that the restaurant and hospitality industry will never be the same as a result of lengthy lockdowns and a change in dining culture.
“It’s devastating but we’ll definitely be coming out of COVID a very different industry when restrictions ease,” Mr Houston said.
“I feel that people have become complacent as they lock down for longer and longer, that they’re settling into a life in lockdown.
“People are making more meals at home now…why spend five dollars for a coffee and support a local business when you can make an instant coffee at home?”
He said that, while his business was still faring well, there were many businesses that are struggling to stay open.
“We are down like everyone else but we are not shut,” Mr Houston said.
“In my network of friends in Keilor and Taylors Hill, they’re really hurting.
“Profits are down 60 to 70 per cent for some of them.
“Regular customers have stopped coming in.
“People haven’t been going to restaurants for so long and I fear that people will not go back to restaurants.”
Mr Houston said finding innovative ways to operate throughout COVID, including boosting investment into delivery platforms, posting on social media more and selling heat and serve meals, has helped keep the business going.
“It’s about giving people as many avenues to access your business as possible,” he said.
He offered to help any business owners wanting to increase online presence and use delivery platforms.
Contact KitHouston@outlook.com.au.
