News Bites
Friday News Bites: Catch up with the latest hospitality news
In this edition of News Bites, we’ll cover the issues caused by tax disparity and energy costs and what it could mean for the hospitality industry. And, in more positive news we’ll talk about the rising call for mental health support, and record-breaking fundraising in the industry.
Pub boss issues call for tax equality with supermarkets
Wetherspoons boss Tim Martin – arguably the most outspoken person in the industry – has said that tax disparity with supermarkets is the biggest threat to the hospitality industry’s success. “Supermarkets pay zero VAT in respect of food sales, whereas pubs and restaurants pay 20%. This tax benefit allows supermarkets to subsidise the selling price of beer” Martin said. He’s calling for the industry to start campaigning for equality.
Wellbeing support important for hospitality employees
New research from HIT Training has shown that mental health first aid, a positive work life balance and progressive company culture are the most important issues to hospitality employees. Jill Whittaker, MD of HIT Training said: “It’s clear to see that employees around the country are focused on the benefits that come with working for an employer which is invested in their wellbeing”. Other important issues to employees were diversity and inclusion of ethnic minorities and LGTBQ+ and understanding the impact of the menopause.
Hospitality chief attacks energy suppliers for their conduct
UKHospitality boss Kate Nicholls has urged Ofgem to “name and shame” energy companies that have acted “in bad faith” towards business customers. The government is planning a drastic cut in support for energy bills for British businesses – which could hit the hospitality industry hard, especially in the midst of the cost-of-living crisis.
Hospitality industry hit fundraising record for Action Against Hunger UK
Over 200 restaurants across the UK signed up to take part in the charity’s Love Food Give Food campaign – and by adding £1 to a customer’s bill, they helped raise £466,154 to tackle hunger. The money raised will help thousands of children and communities face life-threatening hunger, including in Somalia, Kenya and Ukraine.