Crisis | Employers set to face a 'holiday headache'

Recent statistics have found that more than seven in ten UK firms have furloughed staff, according to a British Chambers of Commerce survey, with its Business Impact Tracker finding that 71% have made the decision to furlough employees – which is up from 66% last week.

Under Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, firms can claim up to 80% of staff wages to a maximum of £2,500 in order to prevent layoffs and keep businesses financially afloat.

Among those employers to make this business decision most recently include fashion designer Stella McCartney and former Spice Girl and designer Victoria Beckham. The two designers have since faced backlash and criticism for their decision to furlough staff, due to their own separate fortunes.