Visit Cornwall enters liquidation – St Austell Brewery reacts

Visit Cornwall, the organisation tasked with promoting Cornwall as a visitor destination, has entered voluntary liquidation. Six staff members are affected. More details are on the BBC site: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2dnygl0y0eo

Kevin Georgel, Chief Executive of St Austell Brewery, said:

“The news of Visit Cornwall’s liquidation is deeply concerning and marks a critical moment for Cornwall’s visitor economy. As one of the region’s largest employers and a proud champion of Cornish hospitality, we urgently need to understand what a robust and coordinated plan to support the tourism sector looks like moving forward.

“Tourism remains the backbone of Cornwall’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and sustaining so many local businesses. The loss of Visit Cornwall comes at a time when the sector is already facing unprecedented challenges: falling visitor numbers, rising costs and the closure of iconic attractions and venues.

“The sector needs leadership, investment and a clear strategy to navigate the current climate and build resilience for the future, which we recognise can only be delivered by a collaborative approach that brings together public and private businesses to drive recovery and growth.”

According to the BBC, Visit Cornwall’s board reviewed its finances and concluded that liquidation was the only viable option. The chair, Jon Hyatt, acknowledged the decision was “incredibly difficult,” emphasising that it was made with consideration for staff and member businesses.