Business rates ‘disadvantage’ north of the Border
Scottish businesses are in ‘jeopardy’, having not benefitted from any business rates relief since June last year, while English businesses have been supported by relief since the pandemic and will continue to be supported by up to 75% relief on business rates.
Customers might visit less often – but they’ll want quality when they do
Disposable income – or lack thereof – is likely to be a big factor in hospitality in 2023, particularly in the early part of the year. With the general public facing prices increasing well ahead of earnings, there’s bound to be a knock-on effect on visits to hospitality venues – and what customers buy when visiting them.
Let live music work its magic on your bar’s footfall
According to a new report from research consultancy CGA by NielsenIQ, no less than 78% of consumers said that they are more likely to visit a pub, bar or similar venue if it offers live music.
Kelsey McKechnie takes The Balvenie torch from David Stewart
Anyone who has ever bought a bottle of single malt The Balvenie will be familiar with the signature on the label. David Stewart, one of Scotch whisky’s most well-respected names, has had his signature on each bottle of the Speyside whisky for decades. But all that’s about to change.
Williams Bros – the godfathers of Scottish craft beer
There's a good argument that Williams Bros, the Alloa crafter brewer behind Fraoch, Joker IPA and Caesar Augustus among others, has been ahead of the curve since day one.
New energy scheme could cost hospitality £4.5 billion
The UK Government’s new Energy Bills Discount Scheme could see bills for the hospitality sector increasing by a total of £4.5 billion across the UK, trade group UK Hospitality has warned.
If you want to appeal your draft rateable value, don’t delay!
Licensees unhappy with the new rateable value of their premises are being encouraged to lodge their appeals as soon as possible.
Governments need a real plan for hospitality sector recovery
Both Westminster and Scottish governments need to act now, with an immediate reduction in the rate of VAT and a 'substantial' lowering of business rates for the licensed hospitality sector
‘Tongue in cheek’ drinks marketing falls foul of industry watchdog
COMPLAINTS against a number of alcoholic drink brands have been upheld by the industry’s independent regulator, the Portman Group.
Edinburgh nightlife safety volunteers seek industry support
Street Assist’s team of 170 volunteers are on-hand at night to help those in difficulty, whether from injury, overconsumption of alcohol and drugs, or domestic and sexual violence, and in so doing, take pressure off emergency services.
Columns
Niall Hassard
Andrew Dowson
Neil Morrison
Luke Richardson
