BII campaign calls for pubs to engage with MPs

20-Jul-2023 - Last updated on 20-Jul-2023 at 16:05 GMT

Sector showcase: the #MyPub campaign calls on operators to invite MPs to their sites to help illustrate their importance in communities

Operators have been urged to write to their MPs and invite them to their pubs, in a bid to show the importance of the sector in communities as part of a new campaign.

The #MyPub campaign from the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) aims to illustrate the realities of trading to MPs and ask for their support in getting the investment required to help be a growth driver in their local economy.

The BII emphasised how despite positive trading and a rise in turnover for many operators, business remains tough due to the ongoing price hikes.

It said while many pubs are reporting turnover figures similar to pre-pandemic levels, the combination of rocketing and ‘unfair’ energy costs, multiple price increases on food, drink and other products alongside continued staff shortages have resulted in a profitability drop.

Level playing field

BII chief executive Steve Alton said the organisation’s members need investment to drive growth.

He added: “[They] are simply asking for the playing field to be levelled, allowing them the opportunity to deliver their full potential and support their local communities as they do so.

“For the longest time, they have shouldered the burden of unfair taxes when compared to other high street venues or online businesses.”

The trade body boss outlined how the sector had seen the positive impact the current business rates relief has had, providing a little breathing space for operators as costs across the board continue to rise.

Local community leaders

“With inflation still dangerously high, they now need some longer-term surety to enable them to plan for the future growth of their businesses," Alton said.

“We are calling on the Government to reduce the tax burden on our members and pubs across the country, by providing longer term structural support with a priority to reduce VAT as well as a continuation of the current business rates relief for a further three years.”

He went on to say the #MyPub campaign aims to see operators inviting MPs to visit their venues over the summer, showing them the importance of their business, supporting local skilled jobs, local supply chains and communities.

Alton said: “Pubs are places where life-long connections are made and nurtured and there is no better way for leaders in local communities and the Government to see first hand the impact they have and the support they need to continue to do their amazing work.”