A West Lothian Four in a Bed B&B have taken the hard decision to cut business hours so they can stay open and avoid a price hike for their customers during the cost of living crisis. As fuel bills and running costs sky rocket many businesses have had to completely close as they cannot keep up with the steep price of running a business.
Denise and Carina who run the Star and Garter in Linlithgow, West Lothian appeared on Channel 4's Four in a Bed earlier this year. Despite not winning the competition and pulling out early due to health reasons, the pair have become well-loved across West Lothian.
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They too have been having a difficult time with the huge bill hikes and maintaining their hotel and restaurant and were left stuck trying to find a solution. But the family business owners understand times are tough for everyone and did not want their customers to face the brunt of inflated prices so have cut their business hours so they can keep food and drink prices the same.
The admirable decision has been praised by loyal customers who exclaimed that they love the move and said they deserve all the support they get.
Denise and Carina also plan to put on a number of deals like buy one get one free and kids eat free deals so locals can still come out and enjoy quality time together even on a budget.
Sharing on Facebook the family wrote: "As you all know the costs of energy, food and drink are rising sharply. Unfortunately there is no price cap in energy costs for businesses who are looking at their energy bills rising by 300%.
"We understand that our customers will also be affected by these shocking price rises, so the good news is we will NOT be raising our prices and passing these costs onto our customers.
"Instead, we have made the decision to close on Mondays and Tuesdays and reopen on Wednesdays at 1pm till 8pm. Thursdays 12 noon till 9pm. Fridays, Saturdays will be usual 11am till 1am.
"Sundays we will fully open earlier to serve all day breakfasts from 9am and close at 7.30pm. This reduction in hours will remain in place for a short time."
They continued: "We are also planning deals to make dining out and nights out more optional for our customers and families during these difficult times. Keep an eye on our page as they will be available shortly.
"We will be doing set BOGOF deals, kids eat free deals, Games night, Open Mic night, Quiz night which for a small entry fee of £3 will include a supper and great prizes! Halloween kids and Adult parties....tickets available now. Christmas Parties are final planning and will be up on our page soon. Our Courtyard is also in planning for a Winter Wonderland!."
The hard working pair explained: "We are choosing to do this to ensure that our family business remains part of the community for years to come.
'We also know how difficult these times are for our customers too and will support you in any way we can. You have supported the Star and Garter through the tough times that Covid brought and enabled us to make it through that difficult period.
"We know we can count on your support during these tough times too. We thank you very much for that continuous support. Here's to better times ahead for us all."
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The announcement was taken well by the West Lothian hotels customers with many sharing messages of support. Roy Grant exclaimed: "Great initiative as always."
While Mary Martin said: "Love this!" Bruce Mackie added: "You deserve the support your loyal customers provide. I for one am right behind this!"
And Leona Hamilton said: "Well done to all of. It must be so tough right now and I think most people would expect you to put up your prices."
You can book and find out more about the Star and Garter here.
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