Hospitality facing 'numerous challenges' in 2026- Norfolk brewer
Beer and spirits duty will increase with inflation by over 3.5% from February
A local beer brewer tells us the hospitality sector is facing 'numerous challenges' this year.
The national minimum wage is rising for 18 to 20 year olds. With a new business rates system also coming in the spring.
Beer and spirits duty will also increase with inflation by over 3.5% from February.
"Piling on the costs in the sector"
David Holliday lives and works near Fakenham:
"We've had to work incredibly hard to support the pubs and customers around us. But this has helped fuel growth for us and given us some new confidence.
"However, we are all to aware of the successive budgets from this Government which has been piling on the costs in the sector, which is facing incredibly difficult times ahead.
"Despite all of this, we've started the process of moving. We're looking to expand our base, while staying in the village.
"It will involve moving the brewery itself and increasing our capacity to produce more beers.
The Treasury say changes announced in the Autumn budget will create a fairer, more modern system.