More than 100,000 hospitality professionals signed chef Tom Kerridge’s #VATsTheProblem petition within three days of its launch, demonstrating the strength of feeling behind the campaign to get VAT for the sector reduced to 10 percent. “What a start to the campaign,” said Kerridge, “but it is just the start”.
The #VATsTheProblem petition launched by chef Tom Kerridge garnered more than 100,000 signatures within three days of its launch last week, as hospitality professionals express their frustration with high taxation.
The campaign, backed by UKHospitality, the BBPA, and the BII, calls on ministers to reduce VAT for the sector to 10 percent, in line with the equivalent rate for bars, restaurants, and hotels on the continent.
“What a start to the campaign, but it is just the start,” said Kerridge. “More than 100,000 people backing 10 percent VAT for hospitality in just three days shows the strength of feeling across hospitality, and that number will only continue to grow.”
“Hospitality businesses, please keep sharing the campaign with your teams and other venues in your area to get them to support, too. Let’s get this number as high as possible before 1 July and show just how much hospitality needs a VAT cut to 10 percent.”
On 1 July, the petition will be expanded to the public in order to boost the number of signatories, with hotelier and CEO of Global Brands Steve Perez noting that cutting VAT to 10 percent could save families £63 on a weekend break, and £27 on a meal for four people.
“Hospitality isn’t asking for a handout,” he said. “We’re asking for a fair chance to compete. People often assume this debate is about helping hospitality businesses, but it is just as much about helping families, visitors and local communities.”
VAT is the problem
Tom Kerridge said… “What a start to the campaign, but it is just the start. More than 100,000 people backing 10 percent VAT for hospitality in just three days shows the strength of feeling across hospitality, and that number will only continue to grow…
Originally published on Coinslot on June 15, 2026. Republished with permission.