Monday sees the start of Liverpool Restaurant Week with 75 venues taking part in the initiative that has been organised by Liverpool BID Company. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool Restaurant Week will begin on Monday, April 22, and run until Sunday, April 28, with 75 venues across the city centre taking part.

Liverpool BID Company, which is behind the initiative, says £76m was spent via debit and credit cards in Liverpool’s food and drink section in the first quarter of 2024.

This data, from insight platform Beauclair, says food and drink represents 37% of the city centre economy. Retail is 8.4%, fashion is 18.2%. health and beauty is 4.9% while tourism is 3.8%.

From Monday the 75 venues have hundreds of offers ranging from £5 to £35, which can be downloaded at liverpoolrestaurantweek.com

Bill Addy, chief executive of Liverpool BID Company, said: “Hospitality is a growing and vital industry for Liverpool city centre’s economy.

“We talk a lot about Liverpool’s mixed use economy, and the low vacancy rate we have in the city centre (4.8%  in the city centre compared with 11% nationally) shows that units on our high streets do not stay empty for long.

“The vibrancy of our food and drink sector, in particular independents, is heartening to see, but it also illustrates why it is such a crucial sector to support.

“It represents a sizable number of jobs within the city centre and a vital element of our city’s visitor economy. The challenges this sector faces are acute, from hiring to energy and product costs, so it is important they get the support they need.

“This is why we support national campaigns like the lower VAT rate for hospitality. Initiatives like Liverpool Restaurant Week help to cast the spotlight on the sector and encourage people to visit new venues and to enjoy what is on offer.”

Graffiti Spirits Group operates a number of venues in Liverpool city centre. Co-founder Matt Farrell added: “Liverpool’s food and drink sector is not just a source of sustenance – it’s a testament to our city’s vibrant culture and spirit.

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“With £76m spent in the first three months of 2024 alone, and a remarkable 10% year-on-year growth, it’s clear that this sector is not only thriving but also essential to our economic vitality and identity.

“Supporting this sector means nurturing local businesses, creating jobs, and providing unforgettable experiences for guests and international visitors.”

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