"Industry leaders warn that this dangerously narrow narrative ignores the wider nightlife ecosystem - including nightclubs, bars, casinos, theatres, live music venues, and late-night cultural spaces - all of which are under severe threat. Business rates across the night-time economy are set to rise by an average of 76%, with 50% of nightclubs and venues facing increases of 50% or more, and some operators bracing for 100-200% rises from April 2026. Independent venues are particularly at risk, with little financial headroom to absorb these unprecedented costs."
"The suggestion that this is 'just pubs' is misleading and frustrating. Pubs are important, but they are only one part of the nightlife ecosystem. Casinos, nightclubs, theatres, bars, and live music venues all rely on each other to thrive. These business rates increases - averaging 76%, with some doubling or more - put the entire sector at risk. If these venues fail, we lose jobs, culture, and vital infrastructure that makes the UK a world-leading destination for nightlife."
"This is absolutely a step in the right direction, however it doesn't go far enough. The Chancellor urgently needs to apply this to the whole sector, not just pubs. Small independent restaurants are closing in droves. It would be totally unfair to help one part of the sector, whilst leaving another part high and dry."
Government and media suggestions that only pubs will receive upcoming business rates relief have prompted strong pushback from nightlife operators and cultural venue owners. Industry leaders say the proposed focus on pubs omits nightclubs, bars, casinos, theatres, live music venues, and late-night cultural spaces that form an interdependent ecosystem. Business rates across the night-time economy are projected to rise by an average of 76%, with many venues facing increases of 50% or more and some braced for 100-200% rises from April 2026. Independent venues with limited financial headroom face acute closure risk, threatening jobs, supply chains, and local cultural infrastructure.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]