NFFF Joins Wonky Table’s Andy Lennox in calls for 13% VAT

The NFFF have teamed up with Andy Lennox of the Wonky Table, the man behind the ban of Labour MPs from pubs. We are calling for Governement to bring the rate of VAT for Hospitality down in line with those in most of Europe.

The last growth figures showed that it has flatlined. If government want this sector to provide growth and jopbs then we need the headroom to do so. A recent study by the University of Bournemouth shows the potential that could be unlcked by making these changes and supporting the hospitality sector.

Right now the UK hospitality sector is carrying one of the highest VAT burdens in Europe. At 20% it simply does not stack up against the rest of the continent where lower rates support jobs, communities and local economies.

Hospitality is closing at a rate of around 6 to 7 businesses every single day. That is pubs, cafés, restaurants and hotels disappearing from our high streets and towns.

This is not just about business owners. It is about the 3+ million people who work in hospitality plus the millions more family members and friends connected to the sector. When hospitality struggles whole communities feel it.

Cutting VAT in line with Europe would help bring down prices, support jobs, protect high streets and give this vital industry breathing room.

Hospitality does not want handouts. It wants a fair playing field.

It is time to reset the balance.