Pub operators press the chancellor for tax cuts to boost growth and investment
Hospitality operators are pressing the chancellor to cut taxes in the Budget to boost investment and growth. Philip Turner, managing director of Chestnut Group, says a VAT reduction would have the quickest impact across the sector, though he’s not confident it will be delivered; reversing National Insurance changes would also make a big difference. Admiral Taverns’ Chris Jowsey places business rates reform at the top of his list, followed by lower draught beer duty and VAT. He says reform would matter before 2029, even if not expected in this Budget, and argues a simpler planning system would help investment. He also notes that when nearly 40% of revenue goes in tax, it becomes hard to justify investment in marginal pubs. Emma Harrison of Three Hills Bartlow backs hospitality VAT at 10%, pointing to a 55% rise in her rateable value to £66,500. Claire Alexander, operator of Killingworth Castle, wants reductions in business rates and VAT, warning that higher rateable values can outpace relief and penalise successful pubs. Tim Skinner, a multi-site operator, calls for a 10% VAT rate, meaningful business rates relief and reversal of NIC increases, saying action would restore confidence and protect thousands of jobs. Glen Leeson, owner of Tamil Crown and Tamil Prince, says a VAT cut would be massive for operators operating on tight margins and would welcome rates relief too. Source: The Morning Advertiser
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