UKHospitality Scotland is urging the Scottish Government to use these funds to offset the pain of cost increases by making business rates relief universal for Scottish hospitality businesses. Currently, more than 2,500 Scottish hospitality businesses miss out on this vital relief this year.
The Spring Statement failed to address the April cliff edge of costs facing the hospitality industry, which will stifle growth, investment and job creation in Scotland.
However, the Treasury confirmed a further £28m in Barnett consequentials for Scotland.
Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UKHospitality Scotland, said:
“Today’s Spring Statement underlines the need for a clear growth plan for the hospitality industry, and the Scottish Government can aid this by using the increased £28m in Barnett consequentials to support our hospitality sector.
“Hospitality has so much potential to deliver for Scotland economically, socially and culturally. We therefore urge the Scottish Government to use this additional funding to extend the current business rates relief to all hospitality businesses for this financial year, to put them on a better footing, protect jobs and drive growth.”
