A RESTAURANT owner calling for more support for hospitality venues has received backing from a Worcestershire MP.
Morgan Sanders, director of Toast restaurant, has spoken about the issues plaguing businesses and stifling growth with Nigel Huddleston, MP for Droitwich and Evesham.
Ms Sanders said: “I had a productive and positive meeting with Nigel Huddleston discussing the challenges facing the hospitality industry, and the need for meaningful support for businesses navigating an increasingly difficult landscape.
“We spoke about business rates, VAT, rising energy costs, and the many pressures that continue to impact hospitality operators across the country.
“It was encouraging to have these concerns listened to and acknowledged, with opportunities arising to ensure the voices of local businesses are heard.”
In the last two years, many hospitality venues across the UK have criticised the Labour government for their increased employer national insurance contributions and higher minimum wage demands, while not cutting VAT despite calls and a 15,000-strong petition.
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Mr Huddleston said: “I really enjoyed visiting TOAST in Flyford and meeting Morgan to discuss the challenges facing hospitality businesses.
“Pubs, cafes, and restaurants are the beating heart of our communities, yet Labour’s tax hikes and National Insurance increases are making it harder and harder for them to survive.
“With around two pubs closing every day, ministers should be backing local businesses, not burdening them with costs.”
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With the increased challenges facing businesses, many venues are starting to diversify their offering to open up to a bigger customer base and build strong community connections.
For Toast, which is based in Flyford Flavell, Ms Sanders and the team have started hosting classic car shows every two weeks.
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Mr Huddleston added: “It was great to see how Toast is attracting people through events such as classic car shows.
“Businesses should be free to diversify, innovate and grow – not spend their time worrying about the next bill landing at their doormat.”
In July, Cars on Toast will be held at the restaurant on Tuesday, July 14, and Tuesday, July 28.
