Hospitality business owners from across Plymouth joined me at Moments Café on 10 July for a Politics and Pastries roundtable to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the sector and to help inform discussions ahead of the Autumn Budget.
Representatives from Crowne Plaza, Fig Tree @ 36, Zephyr Burger, Knead Pizza, Harman Bagels, Plymouth on Tap, Café Celia, VOT/Vine and Visit Plymouth took part in the roundtable discussion.
The conversation focused on the ongoing pressures facing local hospitality businesses, including energy costs, staffing challenges, business rates, and taxation, while exploring practical, positive measures to support growth and investment across our city.
Key topics included:
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VAT Reform: Several business owners made the case for a reduced or more gradual VAT system to help smaller hospitality venues grow, improve cash flow, and create jobs. Participants suggested a staggered approach to VAT thresholds to support businesses transitioning from start-up to expansion.
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Business Rates: Attendees discussed the changes to business rates introduced this year, with some highlighting the complexity of navigating the new arrangements and calling for greater clarity and support as the changes bed in.
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Recruitment and Skills: Attracting experienced chefs and hospitality professionals remains a primary concern. Businesses highlighted the vital role apprenticeships play in building a skilled workforce and called for further incentives to boost uptake.
The roundtable highlighted the immense contribution hospitality businesses make to Plymouth – driving economic growth, supporting local jobs, drawing in visitors, and helping build vibrant communities across the city.
The government’s ‘Summer of Savings’ delivers welcome immediate backing for local high streets, but we must keep looking ahead. I warmly welcome the opportunity to hear directly from our local business owners, and I am committed to taking their frontline views directly to Treasury ministers as preparations begin for the Autumn Budget.