April 2020 Bar Bulletin
By Ben Ellison
Seattle was already lamenting the increasing closures of long-time restaurants three months ago.1 Now, with the one-two punch of social-distancing and obligatory closures of public places, coronavirus might just provide a knock-out blow to the restaurant and bar industry as we know it.2
How is what is coming next likely to shake out?
First, it is worth noting that if the coronavirus threat continues for months, the mere passage of time will cause many bars and restaurants to close. The largest operational costs for bars and restaurant operations after raw food and drink staples (30%+), and labor (30%-), are lease payments. While...