A division of the Institute of Hospitality, Hospitality Cymru has responded to the Welsh Government's announcement about an extension to Welsh business rates support for small businesses.
Hospitality Cymru Executive Director, Dave Chapman said, “Business rates represent a massive cost burden on the hospitality sector, which continues to be disproportionately hit, particularly since the last revaluation.
'Wales has a world-renowned hospitality sector, with fantastic venues from Prestatyn to Ogmore-by-Sea, but these venues are being crippled by spiralling cost increases.
Chapman continued, “Extending the high streets rate relief scheme is a positive first step and the Welsh Government should be applauded for its support. But this does very little to support the vast range of hospitality businesses that form the core of Welsh high streets and communities.
'We need more fundamental support for essential hospitality businesses with reform of the rates system in Wales. Devolution gives the Welsh Government a unique opportunity to create a system fit for the modern economy.
Chapman finished, “We have held positive meetings with the former Cabinet Secretary and his team and urged them to create a system that supports the Welsh hospitality sector, a major local employer. The Welsh Government should look at using every weapon in its arsenal to cut disproportionate costs for hospitality businesses that continue to be unfairly hit.”
