Chef and publican Tom Kerridge has published an open letter to the hospitality sector encouraging operators to sign a petition demanding the government reduces VAT for the industry to 10 percent.
Writing that the sector is “under huge pressure,” Kerridge called on pubs, bars, restaurants and event spaces to join the #VATsTheProblem campaign to challenge the cost burden on businesses of all sizes across the country.
“Our sector is under huge pressure. We know it. We live and breathe it every day,” wrote Kerridge. “We know that the key to unleashing hospitality’s potential to grow and thrive into the future comes through a VAT cut. We’re making sure Government knows that too, and we need your help.”
“We’ve launched a petition, and we’re aiming to get a million signatures supporting a VAT cut to 10 percent for hospitality. Now is the time for hospitality to galvanise behind this campaign. Be part of a movement that aims to get hospitality recognised and taxed in a much fairer way. I know that the Government is listening, but we do need to push hard.”
Once business have signed the #VATsTheProblem petition, it will be launched to the public in a bid to garner thousands of further signatures.
“Let’s all get behind the campaign, make our voices heard and bang the drum for hospitality.”
Originally published on Coinslot on June 8, 2026. Republished with permission.