Pubs, bars and restaurants are likely to see an increase in trade as Scotland hope for success in Germany.
The Liberal Democrats have said they are “firmly on the side of hospitality” as Euro 2024 kicks off on Friday.
During a visit to a cocktail bar in Edinburgh, Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said the UK and Scottish governments have “made life harder for business”.
Scotland will open Euro 2024 on Friday night against hosts Germany in Munich, with thousands of fans making the trip.
Mr Cole-Hamilton said: “As people pour into pubs, bars and restaurants this month, venues across the country will be welcoming the increased trade.
“Many are still struggling to get back on their feet after the pandemic was immediately followed by the worst cost-of-living crisis for a generation, made worse by the chaotic Conservatives.
“The SNP have made life harder for business through their botched schemes.
“By managing the public finances responsibly, Liberal Democrats will give businesses the stability, certainty and confidence they need.
“We will also create an immigration system that is sensitive to the needs of each sector of the economy.
“Liberal Democrats are firmly on the side of hospitality, which is why we would deliver a fair deal to tear down barriers, invest in people and skills and give businesses the environment they need to thrive.”
But Scottish Tory business spokesman Murdo Fraser rubbished Mr Cole-Hamilton’s claims.
“This is either some shameless spin from Alex Cole-Hamilton or he’s completely forgotten the huge support given by the UK Government to Scotland’s struggling hospitality businesses,” he said.
“That is in sharp contrast to the SNP, who kept Covid-related restrictions in place for longer and have still failed to pass on desperately needed rates relief to the sector, which their counterparts south of the border are enjoying.
“As he encourages people to support their local pub during the Euros, the Liberal Democrat leader should back our calls and deliver a win for the sector by forcing the SNP to give this much-needed rates relief.”
