BOURNEMOUTH-BASED holiday firm Daish’s Holidays has urged the government to extend a discount on business rates.
Eligible businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors currently can get 75 per cent off business rates bills for 2024/25.
The scheme – which could save businesses up to £110,000 – is set to end on March 31, 2025.
Paul Harper, commercial director at Daish’s Holidays, said the discount has been “one of the most impactful measures” for the sector.
He said: “As the tourism and hospitality sector continues its recovery from the challenges of recent years, it is crucial that the autumn 2024 budget provides targeted support to ensure sustained growth and long-term resilience.
“Extending this discount would be a vital step towards easing the financial burden on businesses, allowing us to reinvest in our operations, retain and create jobs, and enhance the overall visitor experience.
“Tourism and hospitality are cornerstones of the UK economy, particularly in holiday destinations such as Bournemouth where they provide essential employment and drive local economies.
“Our sector is still navigating a complex recovery, and the financial pressures caused by rising energy costs and inflation are making it increasingly difficult.
“The extension of business rates relief has been a lifeline for many businesses and continuing this relief would provide much-needed stability.”
And it’s not just the leisure sector that has urged the government to continue with the discount: pubs have also called for an extension.
A spokesman for the British Beer and Pub Association said: “While we know that brewers and pubs pour billions into the economy, their massive contribution to society is priceless which is why any closure is devastating.
“Government must use this budget to cut beer duty, reform business rates, and maintain 75 per cent business rates relief so that pubs can remain a home from home.”
Pubs currently make an average of 12p profit on every pint of beer once taxes and costs have been deducted.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is to say the government’s autumn budget statement will be used to “rebuild Britain” and deliver on the change Labour offered at the election.
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