A VOUCHER scheme and a VAT reduction announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer today will provide further peace of mind to hospitality and tourism businesses.
So says Helen Peters, chief executive for Shakespeare’s England, the destination management organisation for south Warwickshire.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has revealed plans for ‘Eat out to help out’ vouchers giving diners 50 per cent off their meals out, with conditions, for August.
And he announced a temporary cut to VAT on food, accommodation and attractions from 20 per cent to five per cent.
Helen said: “The past three months have proven to be desperate times for the hospitality and tourism sectors.
“Some have opened their doors once again but trade will not suddenly return to pre-Covid-19 levels, while others are still closed as they try to navigate this pandemic.
“So we still have a long way to go to make sure that businesses are back on track, but the measures that have been announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer are another positive step forward to aid them to get back on their feet again.
“The VAT reduction will provide an immediate stimulus and help with the financial viability of businesses over the coming months.
“It is also good news that the government has come up with additional ways to help encourage people to visit restaurants, cafes and pubs especially during the quieter weekday periods.
“This is exactly the kind of support that they need at the moment and working along side the industries We’re Good to Go, accreditation mark and Shakespeare’s England’s #discoveryourdoorstep campaign, will help boost confidence amongst the public and drive guests back into our hospitality businesses.
“This has been a devastating time for local hospitality and tourism businesses, but now is the time to support them.”
