“It is really hope. But I am also a realist,” says Riemer Rijpkema of CLC-VECTA, the trade association for companies and professionals involved in organizing trade fairs and conferences. He refers to the ever-decreasing hospital occupancy of corona patients.
“Of course we have been through a lot lately; that we were surprised by measures and had to close again,” says Rijpkema. “So we really will have to wait until Tuesday.” A cabinet press conference is then scheduled. Minister Kuipers of Health says that before Tuesday no decision is expected.
‘Stock up to standard’
Carl Siegert in Harmelen normally supplies bread to the catering industry. “We have noticed that wholesalers are preparing a bit. Sales are increasing, there are more orders. Our freezers are now well stocked. We have the stock up to standard.”
At the end of the previous lockdown, “we were really surprised,” says Siegert. “Not now. If Rutte is positive on Tuesday, all restaurants will order again.”
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