Speaking of the predictions that are likely to affect the hospitality sector in 2017, the body said it will be working with the Government to ensure confidence among operators and investors.
The ALMR has claimed that the hospitality sector could act as an “economic stabiliser”, providing jobs, trade and growth across local economies, despite the current economic and political climate.
‘A key concern’
ALMR chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “A key concern for employers will be for the right of their non-UK members of staff to remain and work in the country.
“Workers from the EU make a huge contribution to our country’s hospitality sector and it is vital that they are allowed to remain and continue the valuable work that they do.”
She added: “The ALMR will be making sure that the voices of our members, and the wider sector, are heard.”
Rising business rates
Nicholls also claimed that rising costs will continue to be a pressing issue for pubs, especially with business rates increasing in April 2017 for pubs and clubs.
Property costs, excluding rents, are currently at an average 6.5% of turnover, according to the latest ALMR Christie & Co Benchmarking report.
Nicholls claimed: “We are still looking for root and branch reform of business rates to ensure that they are equitable, affordable and do not penalise pubs for their success.”
However, Nicholls also claimed that, an autumn Budget and a spring statement next year, will provide plenty of opportunities to push for Government backing to provide more jobs, growth and economic stability.
Nicholls added: “If the Chancellor wanted to provide a boost for the private sector and to the wider economy, he could do worse than to look at a cut in VAT, a measure that worked well in 2008 and would be equally appropriate now.”
Towards a better future
Last week the ALMR announced two major initiatives to boost jobs in the hospitality sector, which will be developed in the next year.
The online tool ALMR People Search will help businesses monitor employees’ rights to work in the UK as Brexit negotiations develop.
Meanwhile the ALMR diploma will deliver apprenticeships and career development to employees by incorporating existing work-based qualifications and in-house training into a single learning platform.