Cyprus restaurants near full in October — winter dip expected
October saw high visitor numbers at restaurants, cafes and bars in Cyprus, with occupancy rates reaching 80 to 90 per cent, according to Neophytos Thrasyvoulou, president of the Federation of Leisure Centre Owners (Osika).
Thrasyvoulou described October as a “very successful month for the food service industry”.
Looking towards the winter season, however, Thrasyvoulou acknowledged the challenges ahead.
He mentioned that an end to the regional conflict would be essential to restoring visitor confidence and stabilising the situation.
“Visitor numbers have seen a slight drop in recent days,” he stated.
“However, we hope that occupancy levels will remain satisfactory until mid-November,” he added.
Thrasyvoulou expressed optimism that, by early November, food service businesses could record approximately 50 to 60 per cent visitor occupancy.
After that, he suggested it would be up to business owners to stay open and utilise the Labour Ministry’s support programme to extend the tourism season.
He also commented on the earlier part of the summer season, from June to July, when visitor numbers were lower than anticipated due to the instability in the Middle East.
He added that this trend later improved, providing a stronger second half of the season.
Finally, despite rising product costs, Thrasyvoulou advised business owners to “keep their prices accessible for customers, maintaining affordability amid economic pressures”.