We are all shocked by the extent and depth of the COVID-19 crisis, how it has affected us all in so many ways, and how it has devastated the travel industry.
We are all now having to face decisions which are new to us and are extremely difficult.
So, what can and should ETOA do to help?
In short, give you the advice and support that you need to get through the immediate crisis to help you ensure that your business survives.
Issues of short-term finance, staffing, general cost-cutting and how to get access to any loans or grants available are top of everybody’s agenda, as well as the difficult issue of how to handle refunds and cancellation charges.
We will do our utmost to give you the information that you need to make these decisions. As these are decisions governed by national laws and frameworks, which are changing daily, the situation is fluid.
The latest information we have is available at www.etoa.org/destinations/coronavirus.
We will be providing platforms for members to share their experience and understand what the situation is in the main origin markets, and are in daily contact with working group members across Europe.
It is vital that we continue to demand support for businesses in the tourism sector. We must get a fair share of any monies that are being made available.
We also need to think of the future to ensure that the funds are there to support European tourism when the time is right to give positive messages about travel.
Our lobbying work will continue in these areas to support our members both now and for long-term needs.
ETOA has worked closely with its members throughout good times and bad, and we will be at your side to support you throughout this crisis as we have for the past 30 years.
Yours,
Mario Bodini
Chairman, ETOA
