During Tax Parity Day, on 25 September, a range of pub and restaurant operators will reduce their prices by 7.5% to show the benefits of a VAT cut.
TCG chief operating officer Nigel Wright said: “By taking part in Tax Parity Day we’re able to promote the VAT campaign to our diverse customer base, at sites ranging from the world famous Tattershall Castle floating pub on the Thames, to our local pubs and city centre bars.”
Leaflets and posters in all TCG outlets will explain the reasons for the price reduction, and encourage customers to support the campaign by writing to their MP.
Support
Wright added: “The hospitality sector is a large employer, particularly of young people, and a major contributor to the Treasury. We think it’s fair to ask the Government to show support for the industry, especially since projections show the cut in VAT revenue would be balanced by increased taxes generated by higher levels of trade and more jobs in the sector.”
Black Sheep Brewery is to reduce food and drink prices in its visitor centre on 25 September.
Jo Theakston, sales and marketing director, said: “Tax is a huge issue for our sector and the results of the disparity which exists can, at least partly, be seen in the changing habits of people who are shunning pubs to eat and drink in the home.
“Tax Parity Day is a great opportunity to highlight the benefits of a tax cut. They say there are only two things which are guaranteed in this life, death and taxes, but it is certainly a healthier economy if the level of taxes paid increases because of a system which encourages growth, rather than companies paying higher taxes and contracting.”