The turnover of public catering in the Vitebsk region amounted to more than Br330 million
The senator noted that the public catering sector in the northern region developed dynamically in 2022 and achieved positive results. "The turnover of public catering amounted to Br330.1 million, or 103% in comparable prices to the 2021 level. This indicator was higher than the republican average (102.7% for the republic). Another of the most important indicators is the provision of public catering places for the population in publicly accessible catering facilities, which in 2022 amounted to 40 places per 1 thousand residents of the region," she said, adding that this is the best result among the regions of our country.
Among the main tasks of the public catering sector, according to Irina Levkovich, are ensuring high-quality and comfortable service, developing a network of facilities, using new forms and methods of service, and creating conditions for the leisure activities of residents and guests of the Vitebsk region. Work is being carried out continuously in each of these areas.
"Through new construction, reconstruction, and resumption of operations in 2022, 133 public catering facilities with 2865 seats were commissioned in the region, including 117 public facilities with 2147 seats. The network of fast-food service facilities is actively developing, with over 500 such facilities currently in the region. Self-service cafeterias have become widespread at gas stations, offering visitors a wide range of dishes, including deep-frozen ones, and providing conditions for their preparation. The material and technical base of public catering facilities is constantly being updated: induction cookers, slicers, combi ovens, heated display units, and blast chillers are being acquired. Organizations are expanding the practice of delivering ready-made meals and culinary products by order, including through online delivery services," explained the Head of the Main Department of Trade and Services of the Regional Executive Committee.
She named catering as one of the progressive forms of work in the sector. Visitors, primarily guests of the region, are interested in the traditions of Belarusian national cuisine – there are 24 specialized catering establishments in the region that reflect the flavor and uniqueness of Belarusian culture in both their menus and interiors. The gastronomic tourism segment is being actively developed.
"The years 2020 and 2021 were very challenging for the public catering industry due to the epidemiological situation. Now it is stabilizing, and this trend is confirmed by the positive dynamics of trade turnover," noted Irina Levkovich. "To further develop the industry, business entities need to constantly improve, work on new projects, update menus, diversify dish presentation and service methods, and enhance the professional skills of employees. Organizations are currently addressing these tasks."
Last year, more than 1.7 thousand public catering facilities operated in the Vitebsk region, designed for 86.7 thousand seats. Objects of private ownership prevail in the region's public catering services market - 68.5%.
"BELTA"