NFFF Advocates for Comprehensive Business Rates Relief Across Hospitality Sector

Introduction

Amid rumors of a government initiative to extend business rates relief exclusively to pubs, the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) is urging policymakers to adopt a more inclusive strategy that benefits the entire hospitality industry, particularly independent fish and chip shops.

Immediate Challenges Facing Hospitality

With an announcement on a support package expected from the Chancellor in the coming days, industry leaders are voicing concerns that relief measures targeting only pubs will not sufficiently address the pressing difficulties impacting hospitality businesses nationwide.

Andrew Crook, President of National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF)

A Call for Inclusive Support

NFFF President Andrew Crook commended any effort to assist the sector but warned against an overly narrow focus. “We welcome any support for hospitality, but focusing just on pubs is short-sighted,” he stated. “Independent takeaways like fish and chip shops are grappling with similar, if not greater, challenges. Our sector must not be overlooked.”

Independent fish and chip shops are currently battling escalating energy prices, rising labor costs, volatile ingredient expenses, and diminishing consumer spending—all while maintaining tight profit margins. The NFFF has consistently warned that without substantial and inclusive support, many of these businesses may become unsustainable.

Government Acknowledgment and Response

The urgency of this plea has been amplified by recent statements from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who acknowledged the difficulties faced by both pubs and hospitality establishments amidst the government’s recalibration of business rates, despite an overall reduction in rate levels.

In discussions with media outlets like GB News and LBC, Starmer highlighted the discontinuation of pandemic-era reliefs and affirmed that transitional support would be implemented. Nonetheless, he recognized that some businesses would still encounter increased bills due to these new evaluations.

“I do acknowledge, for pubs and others, that the revaluation means they will struggle,” Starmer remarked. “That’s why we’re working with them.” He further implied a willingness to discuss enhancing licensing flexibility as part of broader dialogue with the hospitality sector.

NFFF’s Standpoint on Transitional Measures

Despite these acknowledgments, the NFFF strongly emphasizes that long-term reassurances and transitional aids fall short of what is needed for businesses already enduring severe fiscal distress.

“The autumn budget did little to support hospitality that is under immense pressure across the sector,” Crook expressed. “The NFFF will collaborate with other associations to stress the situation to the government and advocate for meaningful changes that will help bolster the sector and stimulate economic growth. We cannot afford to wait until autumn 2026.”

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As anticipation mounts for the Chancellor’s announcement, the NFFF insists that the vital contributions of fish and chip shops and other takeaway businesses to local communities be recognized. They are urging the government to ensure that any business rates relief is equitably distributed across the entire hospitality sector, rather than favoring just one segment.

Main Image © Seafish

Source: NFFF