VATs The Problem: Why We’re Rallying to Protect Cheshire’s Hospitality Scene

 Our historic pubs, cosy village cafes, independent restaurants, and vibrant bars are far more than just places to eat and drink…they are the beating heart of Cheshire’s communities. They are where we celebrate milestones, catch up with old friends, and support our incredible local food and drink producers.

But behind the scenes, our beloved venues are weathering a massive, unrelenting storm of rising costs. From skyrocketing energy bills and business rates to recent hikes in National Insurance and minimum wage, the margins for independent hospitality have never been tighter.

That is why Taste Cheshire is firmly throwing its weight behind the new nationwide campaign: #VATsTheProblem.

What is the #VATsTheProblem Campaign?

Spearheaded by celebrated chef and publican Tom Kerridge, alongside major industry bodies like UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association, and CODE Hospitality, the movement is a sector-wide rallying cry.

The Ask is Simple: Cut the Value Added Tax (VAT) for hospitality businesses from a crippling 20% down to a fair 10%.

A VAT reduction is the single most effective mechanism to save independent hospitality businesses, protect local jobs, and keep our high streets alive.

Why the UK System is Drastically Unfair

When you enjoy a meal out or a weekend staycation in the UK, you are hit with one of the highest VAT rates in Europe. Our continental neighbours understand that a thriving hospitality culture needs to be supported, not penalized:

UK Hospitality

• Germany: 7% VAT
• France, Spain, & Italy: 10% VAT
• The UK: 20% VAT

This disparity is pushing perfectly viable businesses to the brink. Across the UK, an average of 21 hospitality venues are closing their doors every single week. A 10% VAT rate would provide the vital breathing room our Cheshire publicans and restaurateurs desperately need just to survive, let alone thrive.

Why This Matters to You

This isn’t just about business owners saving money; it’s about preserving our community hubs and local economy.

• Protecting Local Jobs: Hospitality is one of the largest employers in Cheshire, offering vital career entry points for young people.
  
• Supporting Local Producers: When a local restaurant closes, the Cheshire dairy farmer, the local butcher, and the artisan baker lose a customer too.

• Keeping Communities Alive: Without our local pubs and cafes, our high streets lose their soul.

How You Can Help: Let’s Get to 1 Million Signatures!

The campaign is aiming to secure 1 million signatures on their national petition before it officially launches to consumers on 1 July 2026.

UK Hospitality

More than 190,000 people have already signed in the first few weeks, but we need Cheshire’s voice to be louder than ever.

👉 CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION NOW

Whether you are a business owner, a supplier, or simply someone who loves a brilliant Cheshire pub lunch, your signature matters. Let’s stand together and show the Government that VAT really is the problem.