Turkeys Food And Beverage Outlets Struggle To Survive Amid Covid-19 Restrictions

ISTANBUL, TURKEY - FEBRUARY 24: A staff member waits for customers at a temporary takeaway alcohol stand setup in front of his bar due to coronavirus restrictions in the Kadikoy district on February 24, 2021 in Istanbul, Turkey. Over the past few years, the Kadikoy district of Istanbul has become a hotspot for cutting-edge bars, nightclubs, cafes and music venues, However, the arrival of the coronavirus and the following lockdown restrictions which began on March 16, 2020 have taken a massive toll on the areas more than 3500 registered food and beverage outlets. Streets are lined with shuttered businesses and for rent and sale signs hang from many storefronts. The governments restrictions differ depending on the type of food and beverage license each establishment was registered under. Businesses working under a sole bar license are worst hit, with many now being closed for almost a year. Restaurants and cafes across the country are currently limited to take away and delivery services and have been allowed to open on and off, since March 2020. For many businesses the government relief packages ran out months ago and the continued restrictions have forced them to shut down electricity and other utilities, take extra bank loans, sell cars and other items, as well as use savings and retirement funds just to pay bills and rent. As the one year mark since restrictions came into effect approaches, business owners have taken to street protests to ask for restrictions to be lifted. As daily infection rates continue to decline and the vaccination campaign continues, business owners are hopeful that the governments potential March 1, 2021 easing of restrictions will be implemented and stave of financial ruin, although for many, the loss of income, staff and large amounts of new debt will make the pandemics financial effect felt for years to come. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)