Admiral pubs boss: business rates will ‘kill off the high street’

The high street has always been a vital part of our communities, providing a place for people to gather, shop, and socialize. However, in recent years, it has faced numerous challenges, and the impact of the pandemic has only exacerbated these issues. One of the major concerns facing high street businesses, including pubs, is the burden of business rates.

Chris Jowsey, the chief executive of Admiral Taverns, a northern-based pubs company, has raised the alarm on the detrimental effects of business rates on the high street and pubs. In an interview with City AM, Jowsey expressed his concerns, stating that unless the government takes immediate action to reform the business rates system, it will ultimately “kill off” the high street and pubs.

The issue of business rates is not a new one. For years, businesses, especially small and independent ones, have been struggling to cope with the rising costs of business rates. These rates, which are a tax on non-domestic properties, have been steadily increasing, and for many businesses, it has become a significant burden. In fact, according to recent statistics, business rates are now the third biggest expense for pubs, after rent and wages.

Jowsey highlights that while the government has promised to overhaul the business rates system, there has been no significant progress in this regard. He also points out that the current system “penalises bricks,” meaning that businesses with physical properties, such as pubs, are unfairly burdened compared to online businesses that operate solely from warehouses. This not only puts traditional high street businesses at a disadvantage but also affects the overall vitality of the high street.

The impact of business rates on pubs, in particular, is alarming. Pubs have always been an integral part of British culture, providing a place for people to socialize and unwind. However, in recent years, many pubs have been forced to shut down due to the rising costs of business rates. This not only affects the pub owners but also the communities they serve. Pubs are often the heart of a neighborhood, and their closure has a ripple effect on the local economy and community spirit.

The pandemic has only added to the challenges faced by pubs. Due to lockdowns and restrictions, many pubs have been unable to operate at full capacity, resulting in a significant loss of revenue. With the burden of business rates on top of this, many pubs are struggling to survive. As we move towards a post-pandemic world, it is crucial for the government to provide support and relief for businesses, especially pubs, to help them recover and thrive once again.

It is clear that the current business rates system is not sustainable, and the government must take action to reform it. Jowsey suggests a fundamental review of the system, with a focus on fairness and supporting traditional high street businesses. He also calls for a freeze on business rates until the review is completed, providing some relief for struggling businesses.

The government has a responsibility to support and protect the high street, and this includes pubs. The high street is more than just a collection of businesses; it is a vital part of our culture and community. We must ensure that it remains vibrant and thriving for generations to come.

In conclusion, the words of Chris Jowsey serve as a warning to the government that without significant reform, business rates will continue to be a burden on the high street and pubs. It is time for action, and the government must deliver on its promise to overhaul the business rates system. Let us work together to support our high streets and pubs, and ensure they remain at the heart of our communities.