INTERVIEW. Nightclubs in Toulouse: “I think people want to have fun” says the president of Umih
Closed since December 10, 2021 due to the pandemic, the nightclubs are reopening this Wednesday, February 16. President of Umih, Ivo Danaf reveals his bitterness and relaxation.
After several weeks of closure, the nightclubs reopen on February 16. Relieved?
Of course. But also angry to have been closed since December 10 for nothing. Yet another ten-week closure after an initial period of 16 months of forced inactivity at the start of the health crisis continued until July 2021.
Yet another closure in the middle of December, one of the best months for us, which represents between 20 and 25% of our annual turnover. A closure that did not prevent the spread of covid. On the other hand, it cut the sector by 35% of its turnover. Despite government aid, the damage suffered by our establishments is indelible. In Haute-Garonne, it is estimated that 15% of nightclubs are in compulsory liquidation.
Why do you say that ?
Simply because young people in particular continued to party with each other, with friends or in bars, places which for some did not really respect the ban on seated consumption. But let’s not sulk our pleasure, we are very happy to reopen, to see our customers again and above all to resume our activity.
Are you subject, for this opening, to specific sanitary measures?
No. Except of course the presentation of the vaccination pass at the entrance. It should also be remembered that the sector was one of the first to set up the control of the health pass with the identity document and the one also which confirmed the screening tents before entering the discotheques. One cannot tax the sector, in spite of the statements of some, of unconscious.
The Minister of Health, Olivier VĂ©ran mentioned the possibility of wearing a mask. What do you think ?
Wearing a mask is useless. It’s delusional to think that customers will put it on the runway and sipping a drink. In addition, our establishments are equipped with very powerful ventilation systems allowing the renewal of the air. In addition, the population is now largely vaccinated and health constraints are being eased one after the other.
Do you think you will find your pre-pandemic clientele?
I think so. Last summer, after this long closure, we found our customers, including young customers. Unlike that of 30-40, less present. In general I think people want to have fun, to forget this period. Even if we are aware that other exit habits have been taken by some.