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UK Pub Owners Brace for Doubling Business Rates

12/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

UK pub landlords face significant business rates increases due to planned hikes in 2026.
Phil Kiernan, a pub owner in Gloucestershire, says his rates could double, adding £16,000 annually.
They may be forced to raise prices or close their establishments.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves reduced the business rates multiplier from 50% to 40%, but industry voices say this does not address rising rateable values or the 76% average hikes.

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Story summary

UK pub landlords face significant business rates increases due to planned hikes in 2026.
Phil Kiernan, a pub owner in Gloucestershire, says his rates could double, adding £16,000 annually.
They may be forced to raise prices or close their establishments.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves reduced the business rates multiplier from 50% to 40%, but industry voices say this does not address rising rateable values or the 76% average hikes.