Support for hospitality kindness campaign grows

Operators across Scotland back initiative as sector reopens

Graham Chalmers of Radisson RED Glasgow

A GROWING number of operators from across Scotland are backing a campaign to encourage customers to be kind to hospitality staff as the sector begins to reopen.

Launched by Radisson RED hotel in Glasgow, the #bekindtohospitality campaign is calling on consumers to be considerate to those working in hospitality as venues begin to reopen under restrictions.

The initiative is being backed by a host of operators across Scotland, including chef Dean Banks of St Andrews restaurant Haar; Gary and Deirdre Curley of Sligachan Hotel on the Isle of Skye; Michael Woods of Glasgow venues St Luke’s and The Amsterdam; and Graham Suttle whose Kained Holdings group includes Porter & Rye, The Finnieston and Lebowskis. The campaign also has the backing of Ronnie Sommerville, chief executive and founder of 5pm; and Gordon McIntyre, founder of the Hospitality Health charity.

Radisson RED’s Graham Chalmers said the initiative is gaining momentum.

“We are very pleased to see our #bekindtohospitality campaign is growing across Scotland, with businesses and industry figures and bodies from Skye to St Andrews and of course in Glasgow, where it all started at Radisson RED, joining us,” he said.

“Like everyone else, in hospitality businesses across Scotland, some people are feeling anxious and nervous about this new way of working – so be nice to the staff wherever you go, appreciate their feelings and give them a break.

“We are all in this together, so let’s have a great time in a safe and happy environment.”