NCASS Meeting with MP Neil Shastri-Hurst

The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) met with Dr Shastri-Hurst MP, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Solihull West and Shirley to discuss issues concerning independent hospitality businesses in his constituency.

It is no secret that the hospitality sector faces significant challenges. With record pub and restaurant closures and with the festival industry faced with unprecedented cancelations small independent hospitality businesses are threatened and need urgent support.

Nick Summers, NCASS MD said: “It was a pleasure to meet with Neil and to explain some of the challenges faced by our members. The independent hospitality sector is a vital part of our economy. Small and micro sized hospitality businesses are not only drivers of local employment and growth but also contribute to our local neighbourhoods through community cohesion, cultural diversity and the regeneration of our towns and high streets creating vibrant places to live and work. The value of independent hospitality businesses should be better recognised.”

Ahead of the Autumn Budget, NCASS have called on the Government to reassess the VAT regime for small sized hospitality businesses, including the removal of VAT on hot takeaway food. Am immediate extension of Business Rates relief as well as future reform of the Business Rates system to support small businesses. It is vital that policy makers recognise the importance of the independent hospitality sector and to ensure that these businesses not just survive, but continue to deliver real value to our communities.

NCASS are looking to meet with Members of Parliament all over the country to champion independent hospitality businesses in their constituencies.