It wasn’t the Budget that the hospitality industry was hoping for as the Chancellor failed to offer any significant support in his ‘Budget for Growth’ on Wednesday.

While he did unveil measures to support working families (which will of course include independent business owners), Jeremy Hunt didn’t announce any specific help for energy bills, business rates or inflation challenges. It’s another blow for our industry, already facing increased costs and significant pressures – although he did freeze the duty on beer, which was welcomed by the brewing and pub sectors.

Only time will tell if the trade will be able to overcome challenges and stem the tide of closures. In November, The Guardian reported that restaurants are closing at a faster rate than they were during Covid. Just last month The Independent said pub company closures were up 180% and nearly a third don’t have enough finances to survive three bad months.

Here’s a round-up of reaction from across the industry:

Big Hospitality – Budget ‘falls short’ as Chancellor overlooks calls for further hospitality
support

The Caterer – Lack of business energy support in Spring Budget leaves industry in
‘unsustainable predicament’

This is Money – Have small businesses been short-changed in the budget?

The Herald – Pubs and restaurant owners’ anger over Budget shortfall