UKH urges industry to ‘send a message’ to gov ahead of March Budget

UKHospitality (UKH) is calling on businesses in the hospitality sector to “send a message” to the government by supporting a campaign to secure further financial support ahead of Rishi Sunak’s budget announcement next month.

The trade association has garnered support for the campaign from leaders in the industry, including representatives from Parkdean Resorts, The London Eye and Blackpool Tower.

Among the campaign’s demands are an extension of the VAT cut to 5% for a further 12 months and another business rates holiday for the hospitality sector throughout 2021/2022.

Kate Nicholls, UKH’s Chief Executive, said: “Slashing VAT and providing a business rates holiday have been two hugely beneficial lifelines for hospitality businesses. This support, specifically tailored for our sector, has been crucial in keeping businesses afloat and jobs alive. 

‘It has given employers the breathing room they needed to survive the crisis and ensure they are still standing to help pick up the pieces this year. This valuable support cannot be allowed to expire, though. If it is to have the maximum positive effect on businesses, it has to be extended at the Budget.”

She added: “Many businesses are still not out of the woods and the coming weeks and months are going to be crucial. They need all the support that the Government can give them and the best way to help is to extend the VAT cut and business rates holiday. 

“Failure to extend it into next year risks undoing much of the good work that has been done to keep businesses afloat.”