BUSINESSES in Culcheth have reflected on a busy Christmas period, and are looking ahead into 2023.

Despite business picking back up over the festive period, 2023 is already proving to be uncertain for some local companies.

As the first Christmas with no Covid restrictions, many companies were banking on the usually-busy time to bring in additional income to partially make up for income lost during the pandemic.

One company based in Culcheth, Mackie's Travel, says that although Christmas is always a busier time than usual, this one did not live up to expectations.

Warrington Guardian: Stephen says his travel company could suffer due to the increasing cost of livingStephen says his travel company could suffer due to the increasing cost of living (Image: Mackie's Travel)

Stephen Mackie runs the Culcheth-based travel company, he said: "There have been big differences over the last two Christmas periods.

"There have not been many work parties this time round compared to the Christmas before."

Stephen also said that issues such as staffing and strikes at businesses around Warrington have had a knock-on effect on his company, adding: "2022 was crazy with holidaymakers but Manchester airport's lack of staff and massive delays made 2022 a nightmare for every travel operator in Warrington."

The travel company owner also highlighted the uncertainties facing his business in 2023: "Because of the massive hike in the cost of living, will many people be able to afford holidays and nights out in 2023?"

Another business based in Culcheth, the Wellness and Spiritual Hub, has explained that it is hopeful for the future, and whatever 2023 might hold.

Warrington Guardian: The Hub offers a range of spiritual servicesThe Hub offers a range of spiritual services (Image: The Wellness and Spiritual Hub)

The Hub told the Warrington Guardian: "January can always be a challenging month for a lot of people, and we have clients joining us all the time.

"A lot of people after the Christmas and new year period people start to think about their wellness and also reach out for guidance."

Culcheth's spiritual and wellness service is located at 4 The Parade, Lodge Drive, and it offers a number of different treatments, including life coaching, meditation, and spiritual readings.

Warrington Guardian: One of the services coordinated by the Hub is its 'psychic van'One of the services coordinated by the Hub is its 'psychic van' (Image: The Wellness and Spiritual Hub)

The Hub added: "We offer an open circle every month and also open our doors on a Friday for people to come in to chat and meet new friends."

On the horizon for 2023, the Hub said: "Our main goal is to continue to provide a place of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellness."