Survey finds 62% of Colorado restaurants consider closing permanently

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - Newly released data from a survey conducted by the Colorado Restaurant Association found that many restaurants continue to struggle, and some may close permanently.

The survey was conducted between July 15-25. Despite reopening, and opening up outdoor dining options, many restaurants say they may need to close in the coming months.

Of the restaurants that responded to the survey, 62% said they will consider closing permanently in the next six months under the current conditions.

More than 30% said they would consider closing in less than three months, and 5% said they would look at shutting their doors permanently in less than one month.

The survey also found that the restaurant industry has lost nearly 87,000 jobs since the start of the pandemic.

Colorado restaurants are spending thousands of dollars on personal protective equipment. Data shows that on average, restaurants have spent over $4,500 on PPE.

Of the restaurants surveyed, most say cash and increased capacity is their biggest need.

On July 21, Governor Jared Polis announced that restaurants and bars across the state will only be allowed to serve alcohol until 10 p.m. for the next 30 days.