Imagine running a beloved local pub, only to feel like the government is throwing one financial blow after another your way. That's the harsh reality for Matthew Sankey, landlord of The George and Dragon in Speldhurst, who's facing a staggering 93% hike in business rates. This, coupled with soaring costs across the hospitality sector, has him crying foul, likening it to "constant punches to the face."
Sankey, who took the helm of this Kentish pub last year, isn't alone in his struggle. He argues that the relentless rise in expenses is pushing the entire hospitality industry to its limits. But here's where it gets controversial: while the Treasury boasts of a £4.3 billion support package for pubs, restaurants, and cafes, Sankey insists it's not enough. He's calling for what he terms "intelligent support" from the government, warning that businesses can only pass on so much of these increased costs to customers before they're priced out of the market.
In an interview with Politics South East, Sankey, who also owns several other hospitality venues in Kent, elaborated: "Support needs to come from all angles—yes, from customers, but also from the government. Without smarter interventions, the constant cost increases are making it impossible to keep the doors open."
A Treasury spokesperson countered that their £4.3 billion package is a lifeline, claiming it slashes the potential 45% increase in total bills for pubs next year down to just 4%. They also highlighted efforts to simplify licensing for pavement drinks, maintain reduced alcohol duty on draught pints, and cap corporation tax. But this is the part most people miss: UK Hospitality warns that unless changes are made, business rate hikes could still cost each business an extra £32,000 over three years.
Is the government doing enough to save struggling pubs, or are they just putting a band-aid on a bullet wound? Sankey’s plight raises a thought-provoking question: Can the hospitality sector survive without more targeted, long-term support? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Catch the full story on Politics South East, airing on BBC1 at 10:00 GMT on Sunday, or stream it later on BBC iPlayer. Stay connected with BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 08081 002250.
