Pub operator warns budget worsens finances for nine in ten pubs
A single family‑run pub business argues the budget leaves them worse off, saying they are considered too large to qualify for rate relief and face a rise of more than 65% in their rates after prior increases. It notes around one in ten pubs and small retail outlets will be exempt from business rates, but the majority remain the highest taxed sector in the UK. The operator adds that 82% of every pound earned goes back in various business taxes, a burden they say constrains growth and hiring. They fear they won’t be able to recruit more staff, especially first‑time young workers the Government has identified as badly out of work, despite two decades of providing work and training for young people. They frame VAT as a central issue, highlighting European benchmarks: about 10% on average in Europe, 7% in Germany, versus 20% in the UK. They criticise the decision to ignore VAT reduction and mention a campaign to cut VAT, noting Tom Kerridge as a spokesman for the trade and hoping he keeps the campaign going. They also say wealth taxes or action against tax avoidance by online giants and builders would be welcome, over minor price reductions on ingredients such as gherkins. The operator says more pubs are closing now than during the Covid period and questions how political stances will help local venues, given the scale of the tax burden and the need to grow the sector. Source: The Morning Advertiser
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