UK: Stoke struggles after economy slumped by a quarter over the coronavirus lockdown

The video discusses the severe impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry and local economy in Stoke-on-Trent. It highlights personal stories of individuals like Lee, a delivery driver, and Dan, an electrician, who are facing employment challenges. The ceramics industry, heavily reliant on hospitality, is struggling with reduced demand, leading to redundancies. The video concludes with a cautious outlook on recovery, emphasizing the need for increased demand to restore employment levels.

What is the main challenge faced by the business owner in the hospitality industry?

• Increasing demand for crockery

• Expanding the business to new locations

• Staff shortages due to illness

• Furloughed staff and potential redundancies

Why has Lee, the delivery driver, stopped working during the pandemic?

• He found a new job

• He is in a high-risk category

• He decided to retire early

• He moved to a different city

What is Dan's profession, and why is his job on hold?

• Teacher; waiting for schools to reopen

• Nurse; waiting for hospital demand to increase

• Chef; waiting for restaurants to reopen

• Electrician; waiting for international customers to resume work

What is the main issue facing the ceramics industry in Stoke-on-Trent?

• Increased competition from other regions

• Shortage of raw materials

• Heavy reliance on the hospitality sector

• Lack of skilled workers

What has one ceramic employer announced due to the economic impact of COVID-19?

• Up to 250 redundancies

• Closure of the business

• Hiring of additional staff

• Expansion into new markets