Chef and publican Tom Kerridge has launched a new petition calling for a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality sector, arguing that 10% is “fair”.
Part of a campaign called #VATsTheProblem, the petition seeks support for a 10% VAT rate on hospitality, down from the current 20%, and aims to unite businesses across the sector behind the proposal.
Speaking of the campaign, which launches on 1st July, Tom said: “The majority of European countries know how important hospitality is to society, and they know it pays too much tax. That’s why they support it with lower VAT rates. The UK deserves the same.
“By standing together and signing the petition, we can help protect jobs, support local businesses and secure a stronger future hospitality.”
According to the campaign, a reduced 10% VAT rate would help pubs, restaurants, cafés, hotels, nightclubs and other hospitality businesses to invest in jobs, support customers and strengthen high streets and local communities.
Hospitality operators are being urged to sign and share the petition with employees, customers and wider networks. Businesses are also being encouraged to promote the campaign through their websites, e-mail communications and social media channels, using a dedicated social media toolkit and campaign assets, including posters, beer mats and till receipts.
Tom added: “Speak to your customers and ask them to stand with you. We want them to support their local pubs, clubs, restaurants, cafés, tourism sites, caterers and hotels by signing the petition and sharing the campaign.”
To sign the petition, download a free toolkit and access further information, visit www.vatstheproblem.co.uk.
Recent Posts
- World Cup lifts pubs but restaurant sales dip in flat June for hospitality
- Takeaways and restaurants excluded from business rates cut
- Two chippies win one-to-one support from Frymax
- Bellingham and Rogers mural gives Birmingham chip shop a 30% boost to trade
- Fast food footfall falls as chicken continues to gain ground
