Pubcos add to angry Budget reaction

Following the revelation of Rachel Reeves' disappointing Autumn Budget, more pub and bar operators have been reacting to the news, expressing their frustration over the lack of action to support the hospitality industry. 

While the chancellor confirmed a cut in business rates, there was also an increase in National Minimum Wage, free apprenticeships for under-25s, rising alcohol duty and zero mention of VAT. 

"This was the chancellor's opportunity to take meaningful action in order to drive growth and encourage investment into the hospitality industry," says Chris Jowsey, CEO of Admiral Taverns. "A sector which employs over one million people and contributes more than £34bn each year to the UK economy, yet remains one of the most heavily taxed in the country. 

"Licensees and operators across the UK have been working incredibly hard to sustain community pubs, continuing to show real resilience, despite the relentless headwinds. However, the reality of the Budget is that Reeves has placed an even bigger burden on the shoulders of community pubs, posing further risk to our industry, threatening both jobs and the viability of our beloved pubs across the country."

A missed opportunity 

Richard Lewis, CEO of RedCat Hospitality, says that the Budget was a big missed opportunity to support growth and investment in hospitality.

"Whilst we are encouraged that business rates have been recognised and reevaluated in part, providing a step in the right direction, the sector deserves much more to encourage investment and support economic growth. We are a key driver of the economy, creator of jobs, and the beating hearts of our communities.

“Whilst we are in a fortunate position with our own business and are optimistic about the future, what would help us further would be for the government to recognise the mounting burdens on hospitality businesses up and down the country. Yesterday was an opportunity to help the sector invest to grow and create new jobs.

“This Budget will hamper growth and investment for many and therefore put jobs and livelihoods at risk – and all this against the backdrop of the U-turn to introduce a ‘tourist tax’. Undoubtedly a move that will make holidaying in the UK more expensive for domestic and international travellers.

“If the chancellor truly wants to support this vital industry and in doing so stimulate growth in every corner of the UK, then we require business rates reform, amendments to employer NICs, and a cut to VAT for hospitality. And we need it soon."

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