Pubs cheer business rates relief while other firms 'left out in the cold'

Business rates relief for pubs is drawing support while some other high-street operators argue they are being excluded. Andy Burnham’s decision to cut business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues drew a positive reaction, described by UK Hospitality as a sign that the sector “survived his trip down the M1.” Tax experts said the 20% discount, on top of emergency business rates relief rolled out in January, would save the average pub more than £1,000. Keith Bott, running Titanic Brewery and nine pubs in the Midlands, said the government is recognizing the hospitality industry’s pressure from employer National Insurance increases, the rising minimum wage, inflation, and living costs. However, Ruth Dawson’s HD3 Fitness Centre in Huddersfield said it faces a damaging bill and was “left out in the cold,” urging support for community leisure centres. In Croydon, Ludoquist’s Nick Smith said the definition of a “pub” may prevent similar venues from benefiting.