Restaurant closures show impact of no business support
January 9, 2024
The Scottish Government’s decision not to introduce a business rates relief scheme is being felt in a number of venue closures in Scotland.
In the Scottish Budget last year, the Government in Holyrood chose for the second year not to pass on Barnett consequentials from the 75% rate relief in England to Scottish businesses.
This is despite extensive and sustained representation to Scottish Ministers, from both UKHospitality and our members.
UKHospitality Scotland Executive Director Leon Thompson said: “These recent closures demonstrate the enormous economic challenges facing hospitality businesses, which are always more acutely felt during the quiet early months of the year.
“Persistent rising costs over the past two years have already dented business confidence considerably and this has only been exacerbated by the Scottish Government’s shocking decision not to introduce a business rates relief scheme.
'Tip of the iceberg'
“Closures this early in January are just the tip of the iceberg and I truly fear that we will see more to come, as venues struggle to make ends meet.
“Given hospitality’s ability to drive economic growth, create jobs and support communities, it is a great shame that the Scottish Government has not taken the decision to support the sector. Unfortunately, these closures are the end result.
“This would offer much-needed support for businesses and ensure Scottish businesses are not operating at a competitive disadvantage to England and Wales.”