Bexhill pub cuts prices to show VAT reduction benefit to hospitality industry
A pub says it is cutting prices for a day to show show the benefit of a VAT reduction for the hospitality industry.
The Picture Playhouse Wetherspoon pub in Western Road, Bexhill, is supporting Tax Equality Day, reducing the price of all food and drink by 7.5 per cent on Thursday, September 17.
A spokesperson said: "For example, the total price of a meal and drinks for an individual will be reduced from £10 to £9.25 on Tax Equality Day.
"At present all food and drink in pubs is subject to 20 per cent VAT, compared to supermarkets which benefit from a zero VAT rate on all food.
"As a result, supermarkets are able to use that saving to sell alcohol at a discounted price."
The pub’s manager, Sonia De Sousa, added: “We are proud to support the campaign to reduce the level of VAT within the hospitality industry.
“Customers coming to the pub on Thursday 17 September will find the price of their food and drink is lower than normal.
“We are keen to highlight the amount customers could save if VAT in pubs was lowered permanently.
“A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will generate growth and create jobs in the important hospitality sector and help the high street, of which pubs are an integral part.”