'We make all our money in the next six weeks'
This article profiles small business owners in Cornwall who rely heavily on the summer peak season to sustain their operations for the rest of the year. It discusses the tension between maintaining affordable prices for families and managing rising staff and operational costs.
Why it matters
It illustrates the broader economic impact of seasonal tourism and the financial strain on small businesses in the UK.
Image caption, A successful summer is "absolutely crucial" said Esther Lochrie, who runs tourism businesses in Cornwall
South West environment and tourism correspondent Published 22 July 2026, 06:23 BST Tourism businesses across Devon and Cornwall have been preparing for the summer holidays, the busiest part of their year, already hopeful of a good season after a sustained spell of warm weather. Some are also mindful of rising costs, and the financial strain on families wrestling with cost of living pressures.
Esther Lochrie runs the cafe, car park, and beach hut hire at Swanpool Beach near Falmouth in Cornwall.
She feels ready for the school holidays and is hopeful of a good summer especially if the "amazing" weather continues.
"We are primed, we are ready to go," she says while accepting "it's a tricky time for businesses", giving rising staff costs as a particular challenge.
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