VAT
We report on VAT policy and its implications for the UK foodservice and hospitality sector, including rate changes, government decisions, lobbying campaigns, and compliance challenges. From reduced VAT measures during the pandemic to the sector’s push for permanent reform, this brings together essential updates that affect margins, pricing, and profitability. Whether you’re a small independent or a multi-site operator, understanding VAT is critical to managing costs and planning for sustainable growth. Our coverage is written to support chefs, operators, F&B leaders, and finance teams navigating a complex and evolving tax landscape.
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Jun- 2021 -15 JuneCoronavirus
Sunak to reject furlough extension calls despite ‘freedom day’ delay
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is reportedly set to reject calls for an extension of the furlough scheme and business rates report to businesses despite the prime minister announcing a four-week delay to the lifting of restrictions. According to the Guardian, sources close to the chancellor have said that he believes sufficient…
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11 JuneTrade Associations
Hospitality sector throws support behind Tourism Recovery Plan
The hospitality industry is issuing its support for the government’s Tourism Recovery Plan, which will aim to energise the country’s economy after the pandemic. The government’s plan includes a £10m National Lottery ‘Days Out’ scheme of vouchers to support attractions and a new rail pass to encourage domestic breaks. Kate…
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Apr- 2021 -16 AprilTrade Associations
UKH Cymru outlines ‘priority policy’ areas ahead of 2021 election
UKHospitality Cyrmu (UKHC) has published a full prospectus of “priority policy” ahead of the Welsh Parliament’s 6 May election, outlining the group’s ambitions for working with the next elected government. The post-pandemic recovery for hospitality businesses are at the centre of UKHC’s proposals to encourage confidence and growth within the…
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6 AprilGovernment
Matt Hancock called to High Court to explain pub closure reasoning
Health secretary Matt Hancock has been called to give evidence at the High Court following a legal case brought forward by Manchester’s night-time economy adviser, Sacha Lord. The summons follow former Pizza Express boss Hugh Osmond and club operator Lord’s decision to launch a legal challenge which suggests the government…
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Mar- 2021 -26 MarchFeatures
One year since lockdown: a year in the life of UK pubs
One of the greatest cultural tragedies of the past year in the UK has been the closure of pubs due to the pandemic. According to CGA’s Market Recovery Monitor, nearly 12,000 licensed premises have closed in Britain since December 2019; an average of 30 a day. To mark the anniversary…
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19 MarchPubs and Bars
JD Wetherspoons falls to pre-tax loss of £68m
JD Wetherspoons has reported a pre-tax loss of £68m in its preliminary results for the 26 weeks ended 24 January 2021. Revenue fell 54% to £431.1m from £933m in the period, while like-for-like sales declined 54% which was attributed to the disruption in trading due to lockdown restrictions. In its…
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17 MarchPubs and Bars
Star Pubs and Bars to charge tenants full rent from 21 June
Star Pubs and Bars, which is part of the Heineken group, has announced its tenants will return to paying rent in full after lockdown restrictions are eased from 21 June 2021. The group revealed it has invested a further £19m in lockdown rent concessions and has extended its 90% rent…
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9 MarchFeatures
Government signals sunny days ahead for the hospitality industry
Over the past two weeks the government has shone a ray of light upon what was building towards a foreboding number of months ahead for the hospitality sector. However, do Boris Johnson’s “roadmap” to recovery and Rishi Sunak’s budget announcement entail a season of Spring sunshine or April showers ahead…
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4 MarchPubs and Bars
Revolution predicts ‘rapid rebound’ amid reopening
Revolution Bars Group is predicting a “rapid rebound” in trade and “significant” pent-up demand once the sector reopens, as it welcomes the “clarity” provided by the government’s recent roadmap announcement. The operator of 66 premium bars, trading under the Revolution and Revolucion de Cuba brands, intends to initially open 20…
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4 MarchTrade Associations
Hospitality industry welcomes budget package
The UK hospitality industry has responded warmly to the confirmation of financial support in the government’s budget for this year. Yesterday (3 March), chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a £65bn support package for the economy as the country prepares to leave lockdown restrictions in April. Under the new budget, hospitality and…
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