Events

Hospitality businesses are facing considerable challenges. This action-focused meeting has been called for a collective response.

This group will discuss the next steps, now that the Letter to the Chancellor has been handed over. Relevant members will also provide feedback on their visit to the House of Commons on Monday 2 March. The letter asks for:

• A more balanced VAT framework for hospitality aligned with European competitors. A cut on hospitality VAT to 10-15%
• Commitment to meaningfully reform business rates to reflect modern trading realities. Shifting the burden away from physical high streets and recognising the public value hospitality brings to communities and places.
• Recognition of hospitality as a high-employment sector through the tax system, providing entry-level opportunities through to lifelong careers.
• A reset to a permanently lower, and then stable, overall hospitality tax regime allowing sustainable margins, investment, employment and growth

This group will be chaired by Spencer Bowman, Owner of Mettricks.
“Hospitality is a vital part of Southampton’s economy and identity, but many businesses are at breaking point. This meeting is about acting together, being honest about the pressures we’re facing, and clearly setting out what needs to change.” – Spencer Bowman

Book your place via Eventbrite or email info@gosouthampton.co.uk.