The call for evidence for a fundamental business rates review announced by Government today, has been welcomed by the BII as a positive step for pubs.
The BII has consistently called for a full reform of the business rates system, which has seen disproportionately large bills for high street businesses, and in particular, pubs and other hospitality venues.
The delay in the revaluation for businesses until April 2023 however, means that those who are still paying higher rates, will have even more financial pressure as their businesses recover from the closure period.
Steven Alton, CEO of the BII commented:
“Before Coronavirus closed our members’ businesses in March, they were operating on very tight margins. Now they are reopening their doors, they will need more support than ever before to ensure they have sustainable businesses going forward.
“Pubs can contribute massively to the recovery of our economy, providing local employment and also vital support and social value in their communities.
“Therefore, a continuation of the Business Rates holiday to April 2022, is essential to ensure their businesses survive for long enough to achieve their full potential across all of these areas.”
Notes to the editor:
About the British Institute of Innkeeping:
The BII is the leading independent licensee support organisation for individuals working in hospitality, with over 8,500 individual members running premises across the UK – predominantly tenanted, leased, managed and freehold pubs. The organisation provides integral helplines, online business support, and guidance on key industry issues, face-to-face networking opportunities and savings on a range of supply deals for its members.
For further information please contact:
Molly Davis