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The article discusses the potential impact of a £3.4bn cost increase on the UK hospitality sector in April 2025, following a slowdown in economic growth. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a rise in employers' national insurance contributions and a reduction in the secondary threshold, which could lead to job cuts and reduced investment in the sector. Trade body UKHospitality has urged the government to reconsider these changes to prevent further damage to businesses and the economy. [Extracted from the article]

The co-founders of North Brewing, Christian Townsley and John Gyngell, have announced their decision to step away from the brewing arm of the company to pursue other opportunities. They will continue to oversee the nine North Bar venues, focusing on hospitality and customer service. The duo expressed pride in establishing the brand and values of North Brewing, and are excited about the future of North Bar under new ownership. [Extracted from the article]

Josh and Holly Eggleton, along with their friends Lottie & Josh Bryant, have opened the Pelican in Chew Magna, Somerset. The pub, established in 1615, aims to return to the local community and will eventually offer 10 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and king-size beds. The Pelican will be an extension of their sister site, The Pony, and will offer experiential stay packages around the restaurant, gardens, and cookery school. [Extracted from the article]

The Government's Budget will lead to increased costs for Young's, a London-based business, as stated in their interim results. Despite this, the pub group reported a significant increase in total revenue and adjusted earnings for the period ending in September 2024. Young's also successfully integrated the City Pub Group estate, reducing their net debt position and expressing confidence in their ability to achieve long-term growth. The CEO highlighted the impact of recent government announcements on the business and called for reform in the business rates system to support the hospitality industry. [Extracted from the article]

A recent survey conducted by the British Institute of Innkeeping revealed that 25% of independent pubs are at risk of closure due to increased unemployment costs and business rates following the Budget announcement. The changes announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, including reducing business rates relief and increasing employer national insurance contributions, are expected to render 80% of pubs unprofitable. Industry associations have expressed concerns about job losses, reduced hours, and potential business closures within the sector, calling for government intervention to support small businesses and prevent unnecessary failures. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the recent changes to employers' national insurance contributions, which will see an increase in the rate to 15% and a reduction in the threshold level for payments. Financial experts warn that these changes will lead to higher costs for businesses, with estimates suggesting an additional £866 to employ someone on a £30,000 salary. Industry leaders have expressed concerns about the impact of these changes, with warnings of small business closures, reduced investment, job cuts, and decreased working hours. The sector is urged to lobby MPs and engage customers to address these challenges. [Extracted from the article]

Stonegate Group, the UK's largest pub company, has introduced two new pub formats, Heritage Pubs and Pubsmiths, with a £150,000 investment. Heritage Pubs focus on pub classics in family-friendly rural settings, while Pubsmiths offer drinks-led experiences in lively town and city locations. The decision to create these new formats was based on data analysis and market research to cater to different guest behaviors and preferences. Stonegate aims to provide tailored offerings by segmenting its food-focused offer into these two new formats, driven by feedback from both team members and guests. [Extracted from the article]

Industry leaders, including UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls, have expressed concerns about the impact of employment cost increases announced in the recent Budget. More than 200 sector voices have warned that the £3.4bn cost hikes could lead to small business closures, job losses, and reduced working hours. Mitigation suggestions include creating a new employer NICs band or implementing an exemption for lower band taxpayers working fewer than 20 hours a week to support part-time and lower paid workers. The changes are seen as regressive and could potentially lead to business closures and job losses within a year, affecting growth potential and public sector catering contracts. [Extracted from the article]

BrewDog, a Scottish craft brewer, has appointed Lisa Buckley as its new chief retail officer to oversee the company's global retail offering, including more than 120 bars and hotels worldwide. Buckley brings extensive experience in the hospitality industry, having previously held leadership roles at firms like Côte Brasserie and Wagamama. BrewDog's CEO, James Arrow, expressed excitement about Buckley joining the team and highlighted her expertise as a critical asset for the brand's growth and profitability. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report by Zonal and CGA by NIQ has found that the number of consumers not showing up for reservations at hospitality venues has reached a record high, with 14% of guests failing to honor bookings or cancel in advance. The study also revealed that the risk of losing a deposit would make 21% of individuals more likely to keep their reservations. High-spenders and frequent visitors were identified as the most likely to be no-shows, posing a significant challenge for the hospitality sector. Measures to address this issue, such as improving communication with customers and educating them on the impact of not showing up, are crucial for the industry's success. [Extracted from the article]

The article summarizes key points from the Budget delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, impacting the on-trade sector. Changes include the end of the 75% business rates relief discount, an increase in employer national insurance contributions, and a rise in national living wage and minimum wage rates from April 2025. Additionally, alcohol duty changes will see a reduction in tax on draught products and an increase in non-draught products in line with inflation. These measures have raised concerns among operators in the hospitality industry. [Extracted from the article]

Pub operators have expressed disappointment in Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Budget, warning of potential pub closures and increased costs. Reeves announced a reduction in business rates relief from 75% to 40%, alongside a rise in employer national insurance contributions and changes to duty rates. Industry leaders have criticized the Budget for disproportionately impacting the hospitality sector and potentially leading to job losses and closures, calling for urgent reform to support the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), emphasizes the importance of working in sectors she cares about, drawing on her experience as a former MEP and global consultant. She discusses the challenges of balancing work and personal life, highlighting her resilience in navigating pressures, particularly from the government. McClarkin's proud achievements include securing support for the hospitality sector during the pandemic and advocating for causes such as Breakthrough Breast Cancer. She encourages authenticity, passion, and seeking advice as key traits for effective leadership. [Extracted from the article]

Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have become co-owners of Wrexham Lager Beer Co, a historic lager brewery, alongside the Roberts family. The acquisition was made by Red Dragon Ventures, a joint venture involving Reynolds and McElhenney's company and the Allyn family. The brewery, known for its 140-year-old recipe and storied history, is set for international expansion with the new co-owners on board. CEO James Wright will continue to lead the business, which has already seen growth both domestically and overseas. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the impact of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Budget statement on the hospitality sector, highlighting changes such as a reduction in business rates relief, a cut in draught beer duty, and an increase in employer national insurance contributions. Various trade bodies, including the British Beer & Pub Association and UKHospitality, express concerns about the financial implications of these measures, warning of a challenging year ahead for the industry. Additionally, there are calls for more support and targeted policies to address the specific needs of businesses in the hospitality sector. [Extracted from the article]

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce a 6% rise in the national minimum wage, causing concern in the hospitality sector due to already challenging trading conditions. The proposed increase from £11.44 to at least £12.12 an hour next year may prove too challenging for some businesses to absorb, potentially leading to more casualties in the sector. Industry leaders are calling on the Government to provide support, highlighting the strain that continuous wage increases place on businesses already struggling with cost challenges. [Extracted from the article]

The national living wage (NLW) is set to increase by 6.7% to £12.21 an hour from April next year, with the national minimum wage (NMW) for 18 to 20-year-olds also rising to £10 an hour. This significant rise in wages is estimated to benefit eligible workers by £1,400 a year for full-time employees and £2,500 for younger workers. The Government aims to eventually align the NMW and NLW to create a single adult wage rate. However, industry leaders have expressed concerns about the impact of these wage increases on businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, calling for support on business rates to alleviate the cost burden. [Extracted from the article]

Camerons Brewery, a family-owned business based in Hartlepool, has secured funding from Sandton Capital Partners and Independent Growth Finance to support its growth strategy. The financial package includes refinancing existing debt and providing new working capital to invest in current pubs and expand the estate. The company's CEO, Chris Soley, expressed confidence in the business's financial strength and vision for profitable growth, with plans to become a leading contract brewer and open new locations across the UK. [Extracted from the article]

A recent survey conducted by UKHospitality, the British Institute of Innkeeping, and the British Beer & Pub Association revealed that 54% of hospitality businesses would reduce employment levels if the current business rates relief ends. Additionally, 76% of businesses would experience lower profits, 51% would cancel planned investments, and 28% may have to close at least one site. The trade bodies have urged the Chancellor to extend business rates support through a lower, permanent, and universal level or an extension of the current relief to prevent job losses and business closures in the sector. [Extracted from the article]

Stonegate Group, the UK's largest pub company, has announced two significant appointments. Kay Bartlett, currently the chief marketing officer at Wagamama, will join Stonegate as CMO, bringing extensive experience in marketing, brand, digital, and loyalty. Additionally, Nick Marks has been promoted to group commercial director, overseeing procurement activities and the supply chain operation. Stonegate has also invested £1m in a new concept, Rita's Beerhall and Ballroom, launching in Leeds, and introduced a new brand, Social Pub & Kitchen, after refurbishing and rebranding some of its pubs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report by the Oxford Partnership revealed that September was a disappointing month for the UK on-trade industry due to wet weather, falling draught beer volumes, and decreased occupancy levels. Despite a slight increase in consumer dwell time, occupancy levels were down by 3%, indicating that the weather may have deterred people from going out. The report also highlighted a decline in the total number of trading UK on-trade outlets and a drop in draught beer sales, with craft beer experiencing a significant volume decrease. Additionally, the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker found that managed hospitality groups recorded year-on-year sales growth of 1.7%, but challenges in achieving real terms growth persist as the sector enters the final quarter of the year. [Extracted from the article]

The Government has decided to abandon plans for an outdoor smoking ban after facing opposition from the hospitality industry. The proposed ban would have extended the indoor smoking ban to include pub gardens, restaurant terraces, and other outdoor areas. Industry leaders expressed relief at the decision, citing concerns about the potential negative impact on businesses and the economy. The move has been seen as a positive development by some, signaling a shift in understanding and support for the hospitality sector. [Extracted from the article]

A Cheshire-based pub, the Smoker in Plumley, experienced a "devastating" fire, with the extent of the damage still unknown but expected to be severe. The fire broke out at 5.30pm and continued into the night, with fire crews working to extinguish it. The pub, operated by Robinsons' pub partner Darren Crawford, has been owned by the Robinsons family brewers since 1949 and is one of the only sites in the estate with a thatched roof. [Extracted from the article]

Heath Ball, the owner of Frisco Pubs, has acquired a new site called the Angel Inn in Highgate village, north London, just a short walk from his award-winning Red Lion & Sun pub. The plan is to close the Angel Inn for refurbishment and reopen with a more urban, New York, French brasserie, classic English pub vibe. Ball aims to offer all-day dining, including breakfast and brunch, at the Angel Inn, providing a more relaxed and casual atmosphere compared to the Red Lion & Sun. Despite current economic challenges, Ball is cautious about expanding too quickly and prioritizes quality over quantity in his future growth plans. [Extracted from the article]

The Champion Beer of Britain for 2024 has been revealed as Crouch Vale Brewery's Amarillo, with a 5% ABV. The beer was praised for its tangy aroma, tropical and citrus notes, and sweet biscuit base. The directors of the Essex-based brewery expressed their delight at winning the title after a 19-year hiatus. The competition will return to the Great British Beer Festival next year, with the overall winners announced on the first day of the event. [Extracted from the article]

Star Pubs & Bars recently opened its 200th Just Add Talent (JAT) managed operator site, The Hesketh, in Cheadle Hulme, Greater Manchester, after a £350,000 investment. The JAT model contracts operators to provide management services in return for a fixed revenue percentage and profit share. The company aims to have 260 JAT sites by 2027, offering different pub styles based on location and customer profile. The refurbishment of The Hesketh included internal and external makeovers, increased seating, and upgraded facilities to cater to various occasions. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the concerns of major pub groups in the UK regarding potential quadrupling of business rates in the upcoming Budget. CEOs of prominent firms have signed an open letter urging the Government for lower business rates to prevent a significant increase in bills. The sector faces a potential additional £914m in rates bills if current relief ends as planned on 31 March, which could lead to reduced investment, job losses, and business closures. The letter emphasizes the importance of addressing business rates to support the growth and sustainability of the hospitality sector. [Extracted from the article]

Leaders in the hospitality sector have expressed concerns about potential business rate increases, wage hikes, and tax rises leading up to the Budget announcement on October 30. Trade bodies and operators highlighted the need for business rates support, with fears that the end of relief on March 31 could have significant financial implications. The industry is particularly worried about the impact of rising minimum wage and national insurance contributions, with calls for stronger challenges to these cost increases to prevent widespread pub closures. [Extracted from the article]

Marston's, a pub company, has introduced five new pub formats to establish itself as a "pure play hospitality business." These formats cater to a diverse range of consumers, including locals, sports enthusiasts, adult diners, families, and pub regulars. The company aims to enhance shareholder value through targeted investments, digital transformation, and expansion of managed and partnership models, with a focus on creating unique and engaging pub experiences. CEO Justin Platt expressed excitement for the company's new chapter as it focuses on delivering exceptional pub experiences and driving sustained value for shareholders. [Extracted from the article]

More than 1,000 pubs are projected to close this year, with an estimated increase from previous years, according to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). The organization highlighted the challenges faced by licensees in keeping their businesses afloat, calling for government action to address the issue. The British Beer & Pub Association also warned of potential closures without targeted support in the Budget, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent further losses in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

Inception Group's latest venue, Cahoots: Postal Office, located in Borough Market, offers an immersive experience with a 1940s theme centered around the post office. The site features unique seating arrangements, cocktails delivered via pneumatic tubes, and decor elements like rattling parcels and carrier pigeons. Co-founder Charlie Gilkes plans to expand the Cahoots network with more venues in London and beyond, following the success of this immersive concept. [Extracted from the article]

Hospitality, retail, and leisure businesses in England are facing a potential tax hike of £2.66 billion as their relief on business rates is set to end on March 31 next year. Currently, these businesses receive 75% relief on their rates bill up to £110,000 per business, costing the Treasury £2.41 billion this financial year. Intelligence firm Altus Group warns that the continuation of this relief has not been factored into the Office of Budget Responsibility's fiscal forecasts. Economists predict that the overall business rates burden will rise by £545 million, with £250 million falling on the hospitality, retail, and leisure industries. The government has pledged to address the issue and develop reforms to create a fairer business rates system. [Extracted from the article]

The Kings Arms in Bexleyheath, south-east London, offers a wide variety of drinks including a large cocktail range, a strong wine selection, and a variety of beers and ciders. The pub has been recognized for its entertainment and was a finalist in the Great British Pub Awards. The bar manager, Tom Bradbury, highlighted the pub's extensive gin selection, with over 20 variants available, many of which are flavored. The pub also offers innovative cocktails, including frozen options like the Strawberry Daiquiri and the Mango Mystery. In terms of beer and cider, the pub offers products from Star Pubs & Bars, including Inch's, Moretti, Cruzcampo, Beavertown Neck Oil, Brixton Reliance Pale Ale, and Guinness. [Extracted from the article]

Uber has opened London's first carbon-negative pub, called 55k Tonnes, to showcase its commitment to sustainability. The pop-up pub offers carbon-neutral beers and a happy hour designed to discourage rush hour travel. Uber has taken over the pub to celebrate the 55,000 tonnes of air pollution saved in London over the past three years through its electrification efforts. The pub features energy-generating power bikes and Pavegen flooring, which converts footsteps into renewable power. The pop-up is open for three days and offers a carbon-neutral brew called Swell in partnership with Gipsy Hill Brewing. [Extracted from the article]

According to an article in the Morning Advertiser, comfort should be a top priority in pub design, according to design director Sally Anne McCoy. McCoy emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere to draw customers in and make them feel comfortable. She also highlighted the need for pubs to offer unique experiences and have a story behind their design. McCoy suggested that design doesn't have to be expensive and can include second-hand furniture to add character. She also emphasized the importance of longevity in pub design, rather than focusing on trendy aesthetics. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses concerns raised by the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) regarding the potential quadrupling of business rates for operators when relief ends next year. The BII chief executive, Steve Alton, emphasized the importance of the sector to the government's goals of growth, employment, and high street regeneration. Alton also expressed worries about the reported outdoor smoking ban and its potential impact on local community pubs. The article highlights the financial challenges faced by operators, with research indicating that one in three are not making a profit and one in four pubs are losing money. The BII is calling on the government to take action in the upcoming Budget to address these concerns and provide support for business growth. [Extracted from the article]

Uber is opening a carbon-negative pub in London called 55k Tonnes. The pub will feature carbon-saving technologies such as Pavegen flooring that converts footsteps into electrical power, and energy-generating power bikes. The pub is meant to celebrate the 55,000 tonnes of air pollution saved in London through Uber's electrification efforts. Carbon-neutral brews will be offered, and sustainable brews will come with a 55% Uber Green discount to encourage safe and sustainable transportation. Uber has made a commitment to sustainability in London and has made the city its global electric vehicle capital. [Extracted from the article]

The Great British Pub Awards recently honored 17 businesses across the country in various categories such as Best Pub for Beer, Best Pub to Watch Sport, and Best Pub for Dogs. The Tollemache Arms in Northamptonshire was named Best Country Pub and went on to win the prestigious Great British Pub of the Year award. The pub's owners, Joe Buckley and Flo Pearce, credited their success to their dedicated team. Other winners included the Tamworth Tap for Best Pub for Beer, Almondsbury Creative for Best for Families, and The Pig's Head for Best Sustainable Pub. The awards recognized the hard work and dedication of these establishments in providing exceptional experiences for their patrons. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Cambridge University suggests that reducing the serving size of beer and cider in pubs can lead to a decrease in consumption. The study found that when pubs served two-thirds instead of pints of beer, beer consumption fell by 10%. Similarly, wine sales decreased when a 250ml serving was eliminated. The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has called on the government to introduce a 20% difference in tax paid on pints in pubs compared to off-trade to encourage pubgoing. However, the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) cautions that measures to reduce alcohol consumption should be carefully considered, as a decrease in beer volume was accompanied by a slight increase in the purchase of higher strength alcoholic drinks. [Extracted from the article]

The Tollemache Arms, a 17th-century pub located in Harrington, Northamptonshire, has been named the best pub in the UK at the 2024 Great British Pub Awards. The pub was initially recognized as the Best Country Pub before receiving the overall title. The owners, Joe Buckley and Flo Pearce, have successfully transformed the pub over the past nine years through investments in both the interior and exterior, as well as hosting annual music and drinks events. The awards also recognized other pubs in various categories, including Best Pub for Food, Best Community Pub, Best Sustainable Pub, and Best Pub for Entertainment, among others. The awards aim to highlight outstanding pubs and celebrate the vibrant pub sector in the UK. [Extracted from the article]

Martyn's Law, also known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises Bill), has been introduced to parliament. The law aims to ensure that venues prioritize the security of the public and take steps to protect them from harm. If the bill passes smoothly, it is expected to become law in the first quarter of 2025. The Night-Time Industries Association supports the goal of bolstering safety measures at publicly accessible venues but emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the proportionality, operational impact, skill set required, and financial implications of the proposed measures. [Extracted from the article]

Gavin George, the CEO of Laine Pub Company, is stepping down from his role and will become a non-executive director within Punch Pubs & Co. George, who co-founded Laine in 1997, will continue to work with Laine management on strategic issues and direction, as well as advise the wider Punch group on the development of propositions for pubgoers. Russell Danks, the managing director of Laine's pub business, will take over as the new leader of the management team. George expressed gratitude for the support and creativity of the Laine team and customers, and he is optimistic about the future of the business. Punch Pubs & Co CEO Clive Chesser commended George for his achievements and expressed his delight that George will continue to contribute in a non-executive capacity. [Extracted from the article]

According to a report from accountancy firm PwC, the first half of 2024 saw more than two chain pubs close per day in the UK. This closure rate has been driven by larger, less well-capitalized operators exiting weaker sites. The research attributes the closures to factors such as energy and labor cost hikes, lower consumer demand due to the cost-of-living crisis, and changing drinking habits among younger and older customers. Chain restaurants also experienced a rise in net closures, although at a slower rate than during the pandemic. However, some cuisines, like East Asian, have seen net growth in chain outlets. The report predicts that pub closures will exceed pre-Covid levels this year due to factors such as business rates, alcohol duty, and staff wages. [Extracted from the article]

Pub company and brewer Greene King has announced a new executive board structure as part of its goal to become the "Pride of British Hospitality." The restructuring aims to help the company transition from transformation to delivery and build on its progress in the last four years. The new structure includes a smaller executive board of seven members and the departure of three executives. The reshaped team will report to CEO Nick Mackenzie and will focus on driving margin growth, ensuring consistent vision and values, expanding brand management, and maintaining an efficient operating model. The announcement follows Greene King's plans to invest in a new brewery and depot. [Extracted from the article]

According to official figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the number of job vacancies in the food service and accommodation sector has dropped to below 100,000 for the first time since the pandemic. The data also shows a quarterly growth decline across all sectors, with the hospitality industry down 17.5% compared to the same period in 2023. While this decrease is seen as a positive milestone, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls emphasizes that the overall number of vacancies remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. The trade body is calling on the government to provide solutions to address the tax burden and avoid skyrocketing business rates bills in the upcoming Budget. [Extracted from the article]

Admiral Taverns, a pub company based in Chester, has acquired 18 wet-led pubs from Marston's, expanding its estate to over 1,420 pubs across the UK. This is Admiral's second acquisition in 2024, following the purchase of 37 pubs from Fuller's in May. The CEO of Admiral Taverns, Chris Jowsey, expressed excitement about the acquisition and emphasized the company's commitment to growing profitable community pubs. Marston's director of property, Andy Kershaw, stated that the sale aligns with Marston's strategic goals. The article also mentions Admiral Taverns' optimistic outlook and its focus on licensee-centric approach and high-quality estate. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the urgent need for the government to address the issue of skyrocketing business rates in the upcoming Budget. UKHospitality (UKH) has called for a permanent, lower, and universal hospitality multiplier to rebalance the system and provide stability for businesses. Without government intervention, venues will face increased strain and may have to divert funds from investment and growth to pay bills. The UKH CEO urges the Chancellor to support the hospitality sector, which generates significant revenue and employs millions of people. [Extracted from the article]

Blind Tiger Inns is a wet-led, community pub operator based in the north-west of England. The company has experienced consistent growth over the past seven years through the acquisition of additional sites and investments in the existing estate. They recently opened a venue in Greater Manchester, which has been successful after undergoing extensive renovations. Blind Tiger Inns aims to create a standout experience in local pubs by adding unique elements such as well-designed beer gardens and offering unique entertainment. The company is optimistic about the sector and is exploring new opportunities for expansion. They acknowledge the challenges of increasing costs, particularly utilities, but are overcoming them by investing in their pubs and training their staff to provide the best experience possible. Blind Tiger Inns has a high retention rate for their managers and teams, offering generous bonus schemes and incentives. They also adapt to changing consumer behavior by offering a variety of experiences and activities in their pubs. [Extracted from the article]

Inception Group, a multi-site operator, is set to open its second venue within its Cahoots Network next month. The new venue, called Cahoots: Postal Office, is located in an old railway arch within the Borough Yards development, near Borough Market. Modeled after a vintage post office from 1946, the immersive venue will feature a bustling sorting area with a pneumatic tube system delivering cocktails to guests. The decor will include rattling parcels, carrier pigeons, and a mezzanine level called The Dead Letter Depot. Inception Group co-founder Charlie Gilkes expressed excitement about expanding the network and creating their most immersive venue yet. The group signed a lease at Borough Yards last year and received funding from OakNorth Bank to support the opening of new sites. [Extracted from the article]

A survey conducted by the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) found that nearly half of operators in the UK broke even over the summer, while a quarter experienced losses. Despite positive trading, high costs have hindered profitability, with only one in four operators making a clear profit. Rising costs, including energy, staffing, and food and drink expenses, are impacting operators' ability to thrive. The BII CEO highlighted the disproportionate tax burden faced by pubs compared to other small businesses and larger companies. The survey also revealed concerns about potential smoking bans in outside areas, with 62% of respondents stating it would significantly impact their trade and 20% saying it would result in the closure of their pub. The BII is calling for support from the government, including a reduction in VAT on all pub sales and continued business rates relief. [Extracted from the article]