02/06/2026
At The Althorp Coaching Inn, we are proud to be part of an industry that brings people together. Pubs, restaurants, hotels and cafés are more than businesses; they are the heart of communities, places where friendships are formed, celebrations are shared, and local economies thrive.
Today, however, hospitality businesses across the UK face severe challenges, including rising costs and pressure on consumer spending, leaving many struggling to survive.
That is why we are supporting the campaign, which calls on the Government to reduce hospitality VAT from 20% to 10%, bringing the UK more in line with many European countries where hospitality is recognised and supported as a vital economic and social contributor.
A reduction in VAT would not be a handout. It would be an investment in one of the UK’s largest employers, helping businesses retain staff, create jobs, invest in their premises, support local suppliers, and continue serving the communities that depend on them. Advocates of the campaign argue that a lower VAT rate would provide much-needed breathing space for a sector facing sustained cost pressures.
Like many independent hospitality businesses, we have worked tirelessly to absorb rising costs wherever possible. However, there comes a point where continual price increases are neither sustainable for businesses nor affordable for customers.
The hospitality sector has shown remarkable resilience through extraordinary challenges in recent years. What it needs now is a fairer tax environment that recognises its importance to the nation’s social fabric, high streets, tourism economy and local employment.
We encourage our guests, communities, suppliers, colleagues and fellow hospitality operators to learn more about the campaign and support efforts to secure a sustainable future for our industry.
Hospitality matters. Communities matter. Jobs matter.
Thanks for your ongoing support and sign the petition here https://www.vatstheproblem.co.uk/
