“25% increase in imports a 3 GEL increase in prices for beef and pork has led to a 5-15% increase in restaurant services”, Shalva Alaverdashvili, the Founder of Georgian Hotel, Restaurant, Cafe Federation told Report.ge. According to him, the cost of restaurant services caused a decrease in the number of customers which is why Tbilisi food establishments now depend on foreign visitors. Restaurant managers say local consumers have passive attitude which is related to the financial crisis and rising prices. According to managers, 2019 has been the most difficult year in the last 10 years, as there was a shortage of tourists in the summer.
"If the situation does not stabilize, the number of restaurants in Tbilisi will be reduced. Only network restaurants will be able to stay on the market. A lot of people are involved in this business in Georgia and many will suffer”, Shalva Alaverdashvili said.
Alaverdashvili thinks that if restaurants decide to raise prices, they will have to increase the quality of service. This is the only way to keep their loyal customers.
Bela Gelashvili
News Author