Time to reclaim £10m on music licences
It is now time for pubs to reclaim up to £10m in refunds for over payments on music licences.
Earlier this year, the Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL), which collects licence fees from pubs on behalf of performers and record companies, failed in an appeal at the High Court.
The long-running dispute dates back to 2005 when PPL hiked prices by up to 403%.
The latest ruling confirms savings of around £3m a year for pubs, and also opens the door for refunds dating back to 2005 that could amount to £10m.
The cost of refunds across all sectors, including restaurants and hotels, could top £20m.
Letters are due to hit the doormats of pubs next week detailing how they can go about claiming their refunds.
Pubs can either complete the claim form themselves or request that PPL calculate any refund.
If licensees opt for the latter option, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) is urging them to make a rough calculation of what they are owed.
The BBPA, which pursued the case with the British Hospitality Association at a cost of £400,000, has produced a guidance note to help licensees calculate how much they are owed.
"We fought long and hard for these reduced charges and refunds, so we want to ensure that pubs claim what they are owed in full — and as soon as possible," said chief executive Brigid Simmonds.
"This is vital, as pubs that don't apply for a refund will not automatically receive one.
"I am also very pleased we are now at the final, stage of the process, where pubs will fully see the financial benefits. It shows the importance of having a trade association that will work with others to fight long battles that bring real benefits to Britain's pubs."
• BBPA guidance note on PPL refunds
