Tube strikes having ‘devastating impact’ on businesses as drop in footfall takes its toll

LocalBusiness & Finance
23 Apr 2026 • 3:52 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Tube strikes having ‘devastating impact’ on businesses as drop in footfall takes its toll

  • London's hospitality sector is experiencing a significant drop in customer footfall and sales due to ongoing tube strikes, as many city workers are forced to work from home.
  • Businesses such as MuMu Street Food, Birley's sandwich shops, and Mesi's Caffe have reported sales decreases ranging from 15% to 50% during strike days.
  • Restaurant suppliers are also affected, with London Wagyu Company noting an 18% reduction in order volume compared to previous weeks.
  • Industry bodies like UKHospitality and the Night Time Industries Association warn of a 'devastating impact', citing past strikes that caused up to a 40% sales drop and millions in losses for businesses.
  • The RMT union's 24-hour strikes, which began on Tuesday and continued on Thursday, are part of a dispute over a proposed four-day working week, with further action planned for May and June.

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