The British Hospitality Association (BHA) has hit back at detractors of the 2012 London Olympics, saying that the Games will provide an immediate benefit and “leave a long-lasting legacy” to the hospitality industry.
The statement comes as forecasters warned that the Olympics could have a detrimental effect on London’s recovery from the recession ahead of the games, and that visitor numbers will drop in the aftermath .
But the BHA has argued that benefits of holding the Games in London will far outweigh the costs.
Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the BHA, said: “The Games will give us the opportunity to showcase what British companies can achieve in providing top class facilities and they will leave a long-lasting legacy.
“Competitors and visitors alike will leave knowing that the British welcome surpasses that of any other Olympic destination.”
Adding that the Games have regenerated many parts of London that would otherwise have remained untouched, Ibrahim also highlighted that the event will bring many new visitors to Britain.
“Opening up new visitor markets is precisely what the UK wants,” Ibrahim added. “I’m sure they will gain a highly favourable impression of Britain during their visit which will encourage them to return. This will be one of the most important parts of the Games’ legacy.”
