The Night Time Industries Association has welcomed Government measures aimed at reducing business bureaucracy, while warning that the changes will not address the wider financial pressures facing nightlife operators.
The Government has announced measures expected to save British businesses almost £800 million annually through reduced administrative costs and extended tariff suspensions.
The package includes more than £600 million a year in regulatory administration savings and an extension of tariff suspensions on more than 250 products, which the Government estimates could save businesses up to £155 million annually.
The NTIA said the measures represent a positive step but argued that they will not resolve the cost pressures affecting independent pubs, bars, nightclubs and live music venues.
The association is calling for the forthcoming Budget to include further action on business rates, taxation and employment costs.
It said small businesses account for around 70% of the night-time economy and warned that many continue to face pressure from rising operating costs.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to cutting red tape and protecting existing tariff relief. Any measure that reduces unnecessary costs is a step in the right direction.
“But let’s be clear: nightlife businesses won’t survive on less paperwork alone.
“Our sector isn’t struggling because of administration. It’s struggling under the crushing weight of business rates, rising employment costs, taxation and relentless operating pressures.
“Small businesses make up around 70% of our night time economy. They are the heartbeat of our high streets, communities and cultural life, yet many are fighting simply to keep their doors open.
“Cutting bureaucracy is welcome, but it doesn’t pay the wages, reduce business rates or keep the lights on.
“The Chancellor now has an opportunity to turn positive intent into meaningful action. The forthcoming Budget must deliver real financial relief where businesses need it most.
“While we welcome the Government’s efforts to make it easier to run a business, what matters far more is making it financially viable to run one.
“Ultimately, success won’t be measured by how much paperwork is removed, but by how many businesses survive, jobs are protected and communities continue to thrive.”
The latest comments follow continued calls from the NTIA for measures addressing taxation and the cost of operating late-night businesses ahead of the Budget.
Associated Articles
NTIA Welcomes Business Rates Cut as Government Engagement Restores Confidence
The NTIA previously welcomed plans for targeted business rates relief, while stating that further detail and broader support would be needed for businesses across the night-time economy.
NTIA Welcomes Business Rates Cut as Government Engagement Restores Confidence
One in Six Hospitality Venues at Risk of Closure as Sector Unites Behind VAT Cut
Hospitality trade bodies have warned that continuing tax and operating cost pressures are putting business viability at risk, with VAT reform among the measures being sought from Government.
One in Six Hospitality Venues at Risk of Closure as Sector Unites Behind VAT Cut
UK Electronic Music Powers £2.47bn: Free Parties Boom, Mid-Tier Venues in Crisis and the North Leads 93% Growth, New Report Reveals
NTIA research earlier this year highlighted continued venue losses and cost pressures across the UK’s nightclub and electronic music sector despite growth in overall economic activity.
