Heaven nightclub urges for VAT reduction as it supports Kerridge campaign

Heaven nightclub, the London-based LGBTQ+ venue, has backed Tom Kerridge’s campaign, calling on the government to halve the VAT rate across the UK to 10% for hospitality businesses, as the sector struggles to operate amid rising costs.

Heaven said it is publicly supporting the ‘VAT’s The Problem’ campaign, led by chef Tom Kerridge, in an attempt to keep companies viable. It has highlighted the UK’s disadvantage in comparison with other European countries, such as France and Spain, which have VAT rates closer to 10%.

Heaven reported an average monthly VAT bill of around £60,000 in a recent social post, as its owner, Jeremy Joseph, has expressed that the effect of VAT is “crippling” the venue. 

The nightclub has also expressed concern over rent, national insurance and minimum wage costs increasing, and is asking for support in protecting spaces that “bring people together and bring life to our cities, towns and villages.”

In an Instagram post, Heaven said: “Nightclubs, Bars, Pubs, Restaurants, cafes

VAT is crippling @heavenlgbtclub, and @jeremy_joseph support this campaign 100%.

“We can’t tell you how damaging VAT is to Hospitality, we average a £60,000 a month VAT bill. Business rates increased, minimum wage increased, NI increased, rent increased.

It’s time for the government to do something to protect hospitality venues. Please sign the petition and not just support, but protect our venues.” 

The campaign is widely supported by hospitality businesses, including the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).

Its CEO Emma McClarkin said: “The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs.”