Shops, Pharmacies, and Music Venues Seek Inclusion in Any Pub Rate Relief

Multiple sectors have requested that any government reversal of business rates increases for pubs be extended to include shops, pharmacies, and music venues. These groups have made public statements highlighting their concerns about the impact of current business rates policies.

Retailers and music venues have joined pharmacies in seeking similar treatment to pubs regarding potential changes to business rates. Industry bodies have stated that their sectors are also affected by rising costs and should be considered in any policy adjustments.

The National Pharmacy Association has stated that pharmacies are facing a 140% increase in business rates. The association has urged the government to provide exemptions for pharmacies, similar to those given to general practitioners.

Jon Collins, chief executive of LIVE, which represents music venues, has stated that live events and arenas should not be excluded if the government reverses business rates increases for pubs. He has called for the inclusion of his sector in any such policy changes.

What the numbers show

• Pharmacies are facing a 140% increase in business rates, according to the National Pharmacy Association
• Industry groups have called for business rates relief to extend beyond pubs
• LIVE represents music venues and arenas seeking inclusion in any rates reversal

Calls for broader business rates relief have come from several industry bodies representing high street shops, pharmacies, and live event venues. These groups have highlighted the financial pressures created by the current business rates structure and have requested government action.

The National Pharmacy Association has specifically compared pharmacies to GPs, stating that similar exemptions should apply to both. This request is based on the projected increase in rates for pharmacies, which the association says will have a substantial financial impact.

Industry reaction

Retail, pharmacy, and music venue industry associations have each made public statements requesting that any government reversal of pub business rates increases be extended to their sectors. These requests have been made through official channels and public announcements.

LIVE, representing music venues, has stated that live events and arenas should be included in any policy changes affecting business rates for pubs. The National Pharmacy Association has also formally urged the government to exempt pharmacies from the planned increases.

As the government considers potential changes to business rates for pubs, industry groups from various sectors continue to request inclusion in any relief measures. Their statements reflect ongoing efforts to secure broader support for businesses facing increased operational costs.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.