Wetherspoons is cutting prices by 7.5% for one day only – and it’s for a very good reason
Each of Wetherspoons pubs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will be cutting the price of all food and drink on "Tax Equality Day" on Thursday, September 13
JD WETHERSPOON has announced it will be cutting food and drink prices by 7.5 per cent - for one day only.
It comes as part of a campaign to lower the tax burden on pubs known as "Tax Equality Day", which falls on Thursday, September 13 this year.
The cash-saving deal will be available at each of Wetherspoons pubs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The 7.5 per cent discount will apply to food and drinks.
Scotland has different licensing rules, which means the discount only applies to food, soft drinks and hot drinks.
Tax Equality Day is aimed at highlighting the benefit of a VAT reduction in the hospitality industry.
All food and drink sold in pubs is subject to 20 per cent VAT, whereas many food items sold in supermarkets are not subject to the levy.
As a result, retailers are able to use that saving to sell alcohol at a discounted rate.
Wetherspoons boss, Tim Martin, said: “Pubs suffer a huge disadvantage paying about 16p in business rates per pint versus about two pence for supermarkets.
"A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will create a level playing field and generate growth and jobs in an important and vital industry – especially in beleaguered high streets."
The pub chain has the backing of industry organisations, UK Hospitality and the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) who are calling on their members to join in too.
MOST READ IN MONEY
Kate Nicholls, UK Hospitality Chief Executive, said: “The tax disparity between the hospitality sector and supermarkets is still far too high.
"Pubs are paying around a third of their turnover in tax compared to a fifth for big supermarkets able to sell alcohol at very cheap prices.
"A cut in the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector can help address this unfairness and allow pubs and bars to invest in their businesses and staff members."
Earlier this month, campaigners warned that thousands of pub jobs could be lost if ministers don't slash hated duties on beer.
WETHER REPORT Prices at Wetherspoons vary by up to 60% at pubs just 6 min walk apart
Chancellor Philip Hammond is rumoured to be eyeing up more fuel and booze rises to pay for the £20billion Theresa May promised for the NHS.
An inflationary increase would add an extra 5p to every pint that could put off pub-goers even more - which could drive more of Britain's much loved boozers to close.
Ministers are believed to be considering lifting the popular freeze on alcohol duty covering beer, wine, cider and spirits announced in last autumn’s budget.
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online Money team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 78 24516. Don't forget to join the for the latest bargains and money-saving advice.