Quarter of hospitality businesses have no cash reserves

A joint survey conducted by several hospitality trade bodies has revealed the cost pressures facing venues this year compared to 2023, with almost a quarter of businesses claiming to have no cash reserves. 

Not only this, but 98% if hospitality operators have seen food and drink costs increase, 96% have seen wage costs soar and 98% are worried about the National Living Wage rise in April, while 85% have seen a significant surge in energy costs. 

The survey, produced by UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Associaton, the British Institute of Innkeeping and Hospitality Ulster, reveals that the extent of such costs has left almost two-thirds (64%) of business leaders unoptimistic about their prospects for the next 12 months, a 6% increase on those who said the same in October 2023. 

VAT cut tops priority asks

Respondents were clear about their priorities for government action in the forthcoming Budget, with 94% prioritising a lower rate of VAT. A lower business rates multiplier for hospitality (80%) and business rates reform (71%) rounded out the top three priorities. 

Reducing employer National Insurance Contributions (51%), further energy support (48%), capping the business rates increase in April (44%) and reducing the rate of alcohol duty (44%) were also popular among residents, illustrating the need for measures to address the sector's high cost and tax burden. 

In a joint statement, the trade bodies said: "These results clearly show the perilous state our pubs restaurants, hotels and cafes find themselves in. The fact that a quarter have run out of cash reserves completely us a real cause for concern. Those businesses are extremely vulnerable to the slightest shock forcing them to shut their doors for good.

"We've already seen too many good businesses shut up shop and that has left cities, towns and villages without a vital community asset where people can meet, host events and share enjoyable experiences. 

"These businesses need urgent support. Hospitality is the foundation of the everyday economy and absolutely vital in the services they provide.

"Measures to help the sector won't just keep businesses afloat, but it will inevitably lead to further investment from the sector, which has a proven track record of driving economic growth, creating jobs and creating fulfilling careers.

"It's clear that practically no business has been immune to the relentless price increases that have plagued the sector and can absorb costs no longer, with many already forced to pass these onto customers.

"If the government want to avoid further inflationary price rises for the public and further closures across hospitality, they need to heed the message from our members to act now. 

"Addressing the looming business rates increase, implementing a lower rate of VAT for hospitality and cutting duty would be good news for businesses, consumers and the economy. We urge the chancellor to act in his Budget next month."

You may also be interested in…