Plans announced this week will see pubs, clubs and music venues in England receive a 20% reduction in business rates from April, providing welcome relief for venues facing rising operating costs. While the move has been described as a positive first step, many tourism businesses argue it fails to recognise the pressures being experienced across the wider visitor economy.

Holiday parks, hotels and restaurants continue to face increasing costs, from higher energy bills and wage increases to inflationary pressures and changing consumer spending habits. Yet, unlike pubs, these businesses have not been included in the latest package of support.

Patrick Langmaid, Chairman of Cornwall's Holiday Parks and Residential Parks Association, voiced the frustration felt by many operators, commenting that while the industry welcomes support for pubs, "the whole of hospitality needs support around rates."

His comments reflect a broader concern shared across the sector. Tourism businesses do not operate in isolation. Hotels, holiday parks, restaurants, attractions and pubs all contribute to the visitor experience, supporting local employment, encouraging longer stays and generating significant revenue for regional economies.

Recent business rate revaluations have only intensified these challenges. While pubs have already received two rounds of relief, hotels and holiday parks continue to absorb substantial increases, creating an uneven playing field at a time when many businesses are working hard to invest in facilities, improve visitor experiences and remain competitive.

Despite the disappointment, there is cautious optimism that this announcement signals the beginning of wider reform. Industry leaders, including UKHospitality, have suggested the latest measures indicate the Government recognises the pressures facing hospitality, with hopes that broader support will follow.

For businesses across leisure and tourism, however, the conversation extends beyond business rates alone. Operators are simultaneously navigating rising employment costs, energy price volatility, changing consumer behaviour, sustainability targets and increasing competition for visitors. Every investment decision is becoming more important, and every operational improvement has the potential to make a measurable commercial difference.

This is precisely why industry collaboration has never been more valuable. At the Land Leisure & Tourism Show 2026, many of these challenges will take centre stage. The event brings together holiday park operators, visitor attractions, hospitality businesses and industry experts to explore practical solutions for improving profitability, increasing operational efficiency and building more resilient businesses.

From managing costs and embracing new technologies to creating unforgettable visitor experiences and identifying new revenue opportunities, the show provides operators with practical insights they can implement immediately.

While policy discussions around business rates and taxation will undoubtedly continue, one thing remains clear: businesses that continue to innovate, adapt and invest in their visitor experience will be best positioned for long-term success.

The visitor economy is one of the UK's most important industries, supporting communities, creating jobs and driving regional growth. As conversations around business rates evolve, many operators will hope future reforms recognise the contribution made by the entire hospitality and tourism sector, not just individual parts of it.

The Land Leisure & Tourism Show continues to provide a platform for these important conversations, bringing together the people, ideas and innovations shaping the future of the UK's visitor economy. Join us on 4-5 November at the NEC Birmingham and be part of the conversation.

Secure your free pass today!