Statement from Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association

“As the Chancellor delivers the Budget on 26th November, the eyes of the country, and our industry, will be firmly fixed on the government’s response to one of the most critical economic moments in recent memory. This Budget is not only a test of fiscal credibility, it is a defining moment for the future of this government and its ability to protect jobs, businesses, and communities across the UK.

The night-time economy, which contributes over 153 billion to the UK economy and supports over 2 million jobs, continues to face unprecedented challenges. Without urgent intervention, we risk the irreversible decline of a sector that is central to the nation’s cultural identity, economic growth, and social fabric.

The NTIA is therefore calling on the government to act decisively with three clear measures that will give our industry the breathing space it desperately needs:

1.⁠ ⁠Cut VAT for Hospitality & Night-Time Economy – Permanently reduce VAT for venues, bars, and clubs to support recovery and long-term growth.

2.⁠ ⁠Reinstate National Insurance Thresholds for Employers – Ease hiring pressures on hospitality and night-time businesses to protect jobs.

3.⁠ ⁠Deliver Transactional Reform of Business Rates – Lower the Business Multiplier and reform business rates to provide much-needed relief and stability.

This Budget cannot be business as usual. The decisions taken on 26th November will define the survival of thousands of businesses and the futures of the people they employ. The government must listen, and act, before it is too late.”