Licensing reform could add 13p to every pint, ALMR warns
Measures proposed in the Licensing Reform Bill, set to be debated in Parliament this week, could add an extra 13p on every pint of beer.
That's the warning from the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR), which is concerned about a massive increase in costs for pubs and bars.
The ALMR said that if the measures became law, the sector would face an additional £100m in costs per year. This is on top of the annual 10p duty rise expected to be announced again by the chancellor at the next Budget.
ALMR chief executive Nick Bish said: "If this bill is passed then every person in the country who enjoys a pint of beer will be forced to pay the price.
"These proposals will allow local authorities up and down the country to double the amount they charge in licensing fees. Pubs simply cannot afford to absorb these cost hikes so it will inevitably hit customers in the pocket.
"This couldn't come at a worse time for the industry, particularly as supermarkets continue to sell alcohol at ridiculously low prices despite pledges by the Government to tackle this problem.
"We are calling on the Government to think again and look at the impact that these plans will have on the pocket of the responsible drinker and their local community pub."
The threat of an increased cost in licensing fees is just one of the many rising costs pubs and bars, as well as other hospitality businesses, face. Caterer and Hotelkeeper last week launched a campaign - Slash VAT, Boost Business - to cut VAT, which at 20% is the second-highest rate in Europe.
ALMR increases membership by 20% >>
Pubs face £100m in extra licensing fees, ALMR warns
By Neil Gerrard
E-mail your comments to Neil Gerrard here.
Caterersearch.com jobs
Looking for a new job? Find your next job here with Caterersearch.com jobs
|
