Hospitality energy bills to almost double as support falls away

A new survey by UKHospitality, British Beer and Pub Association, British Institute of Innkeeping, and Hospitality Ulster has found that even before the support ends, businesses expect a 101 per cent increase in energy bills this quarter compared to the same period last year.

The survey also emphasises concerns raised by the sector about the behaviour of energy suppliers inflating quotes without justification with 56 per cent reporting increased standing charges.

“The hike in bills is significantly affecting trading in the sector, with 42 per cent of businesses reducing opening hours per day and 34 per cent reducing the amount of days they open per week,” said UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls.

“Hospitality businesses and representatives have consistently warned that the exclusion of the sector from additional energy support means venues are facing unsustainable hikes in their energy bills,” the organisations said in a joint statement.

“These survey results reinforce those warnings, demonstrating the extent of this energy devastation on venues with bills set to almost double as a result of support significantly reducing. Arriving on top of the 101 per cent increase compared to this time last year, the hit to the sector could not come at a worse time.

“Despite continually raising the alarm over energy suppliers’ unscrupulous behaviour during this crisis, we continue to see these companies relentlessly pursue excess profits at the expense of hard-working businesses and undermining the Government’s significant investment.

“November demonstrated the role hospitality can play in delivering growth, even during tough times, but we need to see this recognised by Government action; by reigning in energy suppliers and their poor conduct and unlocking hospitality’s potential in the Spring Budget.

“The dramatic increases we are seeing in energy prices shows the desperate need for support and investment in hospitality, if our sector is to survive the current crisis and go on to deliver consistent economic growth, create jobs and reinvest in our local communities.”