Majorca and Ibiza are facing a crisis as UK tourists flock to the holiday hotspots but fail to spend any money. The bosses of European Union holiday destinations in the Balearic Islands, including Menorca, have expressed their concerns as revenues at local bars and restaurants plummet.
Business leaders have described the economy as “exhausted” and showing signs of “fatigue“, with growth rates below the national average during the crucial second quarter. A report has also warned that job creation is on the decline.
Owners of bars and restaurants have reported a 20% drop in their earnings. The Confederation of Balearic Business Associations, which represents all major employers, stated that the local economy grew by 2.8% from April to June, compared to the national average of 2.9%.
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Despite a promising start to the year with a growth rate of 3% in the first quarter, there are fears that this downward trend will continue into the third quarter. This is despite assurances from hotel owners that they will keep their establishments open for longer than usual.
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One British tourist issued a warning to Majorca, stating: “Add to the doom and gloom the new EES if it eventually happens and is not postponed again or better still scrapped completely and you have the perfect storm. Despite being property owners in Majorca, like most people likely to be affected by long delays we are giving the EU a complete miss for at least 6 months and heading to Turkey for no hassle entry, lower prices and better value for money,” reports Birmingham Live.
“Adios Majorca you only have yourselves and the EU to blame.”
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Another added: “Well the Golden Goose is tired and needs a break you will now reap the Real effects of all the loose reckless and not thought-through comments and come to realise how Fragile the Mallorcan economy is, all over there is less business activity the negative atmosphere together with Crime and inflation and cost rises the people are starting to scratch Mallorca off their list and they will not come back!”
However, a local from Majorca is reported by BirminghamMail to have responded: “Still, it’ll be a shame to lose a handful of Brits. But no worries, [there are] plenty of others to take their place. Besides, Brits don’t spend much. And complain a lot. Anyway, enjoy Turkey. Or Egypt. Or Tunisia… Or wherever is the cheapest. We’ll still be here next year. Maybe things will be better for you then.”