05/06/2026
Why is eating out becoming more expensive, hospitality jobs under pressure, and so many independent venues struggling to survive?
Many people across the hospitality industry believe VAT is part of the problem.
Hospitality is one of the UK’s largest employers, supporting more than 3.5 million jobs and playing a vital role in local communities. Yet businesses across the sector continue to face rising costs, from energy and ingredients to wages and operating expenses.
The VATs The Problem campaign is calling for a reduced 10% VAT rate for hospitality. The aim isn’t simply to help businesses. It’s about creating an environment where venues can keep prices more affordable, protect jobs, invest in better experiences, and continue contributing to the communities they serve.
A lower VAT rate would help ease some of the financial pressure on restaurants, pubs, cafés and hotels, giving them greater capacity to invest in their teams, their venues and their customers.
At The Guillemot, we’re proud to support the VATs The Problem campaign because we believe thriving hospitality businesses create thriving communities.
What are your thoughts? Would a reduced VAT rate make a difference to the future of hospitality in the UK?
Sign the petition to show your support:
https://www.vatstheproblem.co.uk/
