The Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKÖ) has said that there is now a 'light at the end of the tunnel' for businesses that were shut down due to the coronavirus, as the country seeks to loosen some retailer restrictions from Easter.
"For some retailers, this will be a small lifeline, which at least limits the losses somewhat," commented Peter Buchmüller, chairman of the federal trade division at WKÖ.
A loosening of restrictions from 14 April onwards will see some small businesses and craft operators permitted to reopen, provided they retain strict operational guidelines.
'Important First Step'
Buchmüller commented that this will represent an important first step towards returning to normality.
"This will also stop the outflow of purchasing power in the direction of international online giants," he added.
"Especially during this crisis, given the impending enormous budget deficit, everyone should be aware of the importance of keeping every euro in Austria."
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Stephen Wynne-Jones. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
