PUBS OF ULSTER INDUSTRY NEWS

Get-involved-in-the-Nondomestic-revaluation-

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Once complete the rateable value of all business properties in Northern Ireland will be in line with current property values. This will restore balance to the rating system. Current business rate bills are based on 2001 values. After revaluation they will be based on 2013 values.

New valuation list
A new Valuation List based on 2013 values will be published, and from 1st April 2015 business rate bills will be based on the new values.

Ensure your valuation is right by supplying rental information

Letters have now been issued to the occupiers of almost 50,000 business premises seeking rental information as part of the revaluation exercise. All business ratepayers are urged to play their part in this revaluation and submit the necessary information when requested.

To help ratepayers provide information in a convenient way, LPS has created an online form. If you have received a letter with instructions for accessing this form, please complete and submit your information as soon as you can. You can access the online form or find out more about revaluation from the Reval 2015 NI website.

Contacts for Reval 2015 NI

Email: info@reval2015ni.gov.uk

Call: 0300 200 7801
(outside UK: +44 28 9051 4613)

Website: www.reval2015ni.gov.uk

Comment-on-Latest-news-on-the-Botanic-Group

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We are pleased to hear the news from the administrator that a buyer has been found for at least 6 of the pubs, including the iconic Bot, previously owned by the Botanic Group.

It is great news that around 300 jobs have been saved and some of Belfast’s most high profile pubs will continue to trade. This is not only good for the industry but vital for the economy here in Northern Ireland.

We are optimistic that the remaining pubs and jobs will be saved in the not too distant future given the quality of the outlets.

Although this is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the industry in the current environment, we are working with the government and other stakeholders to protect one of the most important economic generators for Northern Ireland.

Administrators-Appointed-to-Botanic-Inns-Limited-and-Kurkova-Limited

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

John Hansen and Stuart Irwin of KPMG in Belfast were today appointed Joint Administrators of Botanic Inns Limited and Kurkova Limited which operate a portfolio of pubs, restaurants and hotels. It is the Joint Administrators intention that the venues will continue to trade as normal - it is business as usual

The Joint Administrators are currently undertaking a review of the business and have spoken to management, the workforce and other key stakeholders in an effort to determine a successful outcome to the administrations, namely the survival of the business as a going concern

The Joint Administrators will be keeping management and employees informed of the progress of the administrations in the coming days and will not be in a position to comment further until they have completed their review.

Comment-on-Botanic-Inns-Administration

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This is disappointing news for Botanic Inns Limited and its parent company Kurkova.

Botanic Inns is an iconic brand for the city of Belfast and right across Northern Ireland. It has always had the highest reputation and regarded as one of our Blue Chip companies and we must do all we can to help support it at this time.

We welcome the Administrators intention that the venues will continue to trade as normal and that regulars and visitors to the Botanic Inns pubs and bars should be reassured that they are opened for business.

It is no secret that factors have accumulated over the past year which has made it a very tough trading environment right across the industry. The revenue reserves normally built up by publicans during the Christmas season have suffered in the current trading environment and the negative impact of the recent flag protests compounding the problems faced by the trade.

At the end of 2012 the number of pub licenses in Northern Ireland numbered 1252, down from 1481 in the year ending 2007. That can be put down to a number of factors such as the change in social habits, property revaluations, non-renewal of licenses and the impact that supermarket pricing is having. The offer from our pubs and bars here is still of the highest quality and remains a valuable asset.

It is important to reiterate that the pub industry is a key economic driver and its health and vitality are crucial in the sustainability of the economy as a whole. It must be protected.

Carrier-Bag-Levy

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This includes bags made from plastic, paper and natural materials such as starch.

There will however be some exemptions for food.

Some types of small bags may also be exempt- staff will be able to advise you.

Always bring your own bag.

Find out more at www.nidirect.gov.uk/baglevy

Office-Hours-for-Easter-2013

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

If your query is urgent, tweet us @pubsofulster or email joel.neill@pubsofulster.org, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Have a great Easter weekend!

David-Meades-Profit-Cocktail

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This year’s annual meeting of members at the Tower Hotel – the first time the AGM has been held in Derry/Londonderry – had a very special guest, as TV star and motivational speaker, David Meade took to the stage to lead an interactive workshop designed to help pubs develop their ‘Profit Cocktail’. David guided publicans through a host of practical techniques focused on driving sales by developing their customer experience, combining his personal interests of popular psychology, consumer behaviour and choice with the performance of mentalism. The unique workshop was designed to encourage publicans to think critically about the challenges around them and how to strive for success in a challenging marketplace.

Speaking at the event, Magherafelt publican and chair of Pubs of Ulster, Mark Stewart said:

“As a local man, I’m delighted that we have been able to host the event in Derry/Londonderry, especially with this year’s City of Culture status.

“Our AGM is one of the key events in the industry’s calendar, as it’s an opportunity for publicans from right across Northern Ireland to come together and discuss the issues that affect each and every one of us. This year was also unique thanks to David Meade, who really drove home the message that the customer is king in our industry. David’s unique skills give a rare insight into customer behaviour and motivating staff. With the future of our industry dependent on delivering a high quality product, David`s `Profit Cocktail` showed how to get all the ingredients together necessary to deliver a great customer experience and a healthy profit."

As well as looking at how pubs can find innovative ways to boost business, the AGM also examined key issues affecting the industry locally. Delegates were briefed on issues such as minimum pricing, licensing legislation, business rates and VAT, as well as how Pubs of Ulster put Northern Ireland’s pubs at the heart of the campaign to scrap the duty escalator – which was abolished as part of the Budget.

Colin Neill, chief executive of Pubs of Ulster said:

“It has been a very challenging time for the pub trade, but the AGM allows us to come together and take stock of where we are and look at where we are going. To see so many publicans from right across Northern Ireland come together in Derry/Londonderry is also encouraging, as it shows that as an industry we are all working together.

“Despite the challenges, we are making progress and we believe that there is a future for our pubs. The hard work to safeguard the industry will continue and Pubs of Ulster plans to bring the issues

Budget-2013-Beer-Duty-Escalator-Scrapped

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

“Pubs of Ulster welcomes today’s Budget announcement and the chancellor’s decision to scrap the beer duty escalator, as it marks a significant victory for the industry.

“Pubs of Ulster has lobbied extensively to bring an end to the beer duty escalator - which allows duty to increase automatically by 2 per cent more than inflation every year. Since 2008, the escalator has brought about a staggering 42% increase in taxation. The impact on the industry each year has been significant, with many within the trade citing the escalator as a key contributor to pub closures. As the representative body of the industry locally, Pubs of Ulster took the campaign to abolish the duty escalator to Westminster. Following extensive discussions with our local MPs, the shadow pubs minister and the chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Save the Pubs Group, the voice of the industry has been heard.

“Whilst we welcome today’s announcement and see it as a significant step forward, the end of the escalator doesn’t repair the damage already done to the trade over the last five years. We must also remember that the chancellor still plans to increase all other alcohol duty and we can therefore expect an increase in the price of wine, spirits and cider.

“However, we must recognise that today’s announcement could mark a turning point for the industry. It also shows that Westminster has now recognised the value of the pub and the vital role it plays in the economy. We would now call on Stormont to do the same.”

Comment-for-the-Belfast-Telegraph-ahead-of-2013-Budget

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

“Whilst the Chancellor may not directly increase tax, the industry is still likely to be facing an increase in duty thanks to the beer duty escalator. The escalator, which was introduced four years ago under the then Labour government, means that duty on beer increases automatically by 2 per cent more than inflation every year. Therefore, we are expecting a duty increase of 5% at this week’s Budget.

“Pubs of Ulster has lobbied extensively on the issue of beer duty, highlighting the impact of on-going taxation in terms of jobs and the overall health and survival of the industry. Earlier this month, we travelled to Westminster for a debate on duty and met with the Shadow Pubs Minister and the Chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Save the Pubs Group, to discuss the urgent need to bring an end to further increases in duty.

“Ahead of the announcement on Wednesday, we call on the Chancellor to abolish the beer duty escalator. For the sake of the industry’s future, we hope he listens.”

Pubs-Hear-The-Meade-For-A-Profit-Cocktail

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In an interactive workshop at the Pubs of Ulster AGM (Tower Hotel in Derry/Londonderry on 21^st March), TV star and motivational business speaker, David Meade will guide publicans through a host of practical techniques that focus on driving sales by developing their customer experience. Combining his personal interests of popular psychology, consumer behaviour and choice with the performance of mentalism, this innovative workshop will encourage publicans to think critically about the challenges around them and how to strive for success in a challenging marketplace.

Commenting on the unique event, Colin Neill, CEO, Pubs of Ulster said: “Using the skills of a mentalist to teach businesses how they can increase profit may sound a little strange, but in today`s competitive market place there is a huge difference between being open for business and being ready for business. David has unique skills that give a rare insight into customer behaviour and motivating staff. With the future of our industry dependent on delivering a high quality product, David`s `Profit Cocktail` brings together all the ingredients necessary to deliver both a great customer experience and a healthy profit."

Pubs-of-Ulster-Support-Tax-Payer-Alliance-Campaign

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

“Pubs of Ulster fully supports the TaxPayers’ Alliance campaign to stop a further increase in beer duty.

“Since 2008 and the introduction of the beer duty escalator, which allows duty to increase by 2 per cent more than inflation every year, duty has risen by a staggering 42 per cent. The UK now pays more alcohol duty per unit of alcohol than any country in the EU except Finland. In real terms, the continued increase in beer duty is hitting customers directly in the pocket, with many being forced to pay more for their pint.

“From an industry point of view, the continued increase in taxation is also very damaging and is having a devastating effect on the local pub trade. The continued rise in beer duty means that pubs are now in fact losing approximately 2 pence on a standard £3 pint of beer. With many pubs struggling to get through these tough economic times, a further increase in duty could put the jobs of thousands of people employed within the industry at risk.

“We therefore call on the public, as well as publicans themselves, to get behind the campaign and put pressure on the government to stop another increase in beer duty.”

Publicans-Meet-With-Shadow-Secretary-of-State

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Shadow Secretary of State, Vernon Coaker MP (centre) joins Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Pubs of Ulster (left) and Mark Stewart, Chairman of Pubs of Ulster (right), to discuss the widespread impact of the flag protests on local trade across Northern Ireland. During a meeting of Pubs of Ulster’s Executive Committee today (Tuesday 12^th February), licensees from across the province discussed the immediate future of the industry and stressed that the impact of the flag protests extended far beyond Belfast, with pubs right across Northern Ireland feeling the knock on effects in terms of footfall and revenue. Speaking after the meeting, Colin Neill, chief executive of Pubs of Ulster said: “Today’s meeting was an opportunity for the Shadow Secretary of State to hear of the impact the flag protests have had and are continuing to have on businesses right across Northern Ireland. During the meeting, Mr Coaker pledged to support the trade and to do what he can to help struggling businesses across Northern Ireland. We hope that today’s meeting will help keep the needs of the local business community at the top of the political agenda, both in Northern Ireland and at Westminster.”

Public-To-Benefit-From-Better-Trained-Door-Supervisors

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

From Monday [04 Feb], door supervisors renewing their Security Industry Authority licence will need to have taken additional training and gained the Level 2 Award for Up-skilling Door Supervisors qualification.

The change means that door supervisors will need to complete training in physical intervention skills as well as demonstrating knowledge in areas of first aid, awareness of terrorist threats and considerations in dealing with children and young people.

SIA Competency Manager Tony Holyland explains:

“Door staff are often the first people party-goers see on a night out to their local pub or club. As the night time economy has developed, the role of the door supervisor has changed. The additional mandatory skills will help door supervisors to handle situations, which can often involve resolving drink-fuelled disputes and escorting disorderly revellers off the premises.

“In highly-emotive situations, the door supervisor has to be able to protect the public and sometimes, him or herself from abuse. The new requirements will better equip door supervisors whilst they are on duty to do this in a safe manner.

“We would urge all door staff to make sure that they take the additional training before they renew their licence. Anyone supplying or employing door staff should ensure that they use our online Register of Licence Holders to ensure that their operative are properly trained and holds a valid SIA licence.”

Pubs-Of-Ulster-and-the-Northern-Ireland-Independent-Retail-Trade-Association-Joint-Statement

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

JOINT STATEMENT ON BEHALF OF PUBS OF ULSTER AND THE NORTHERN IRELAND INDEPENDENT RETAIL TRADE ASSOCIATION.

Following today’s announcement by Belfast City Council of a £400,000 funding boost to help businesses affected by the on-going flag protests, Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Pubs of Ulster and Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association, said:

“Today’s announcement by Belfast City Council is another welcome boost for business in Belfast. We all know that the situation within the city is critical so we hope that that this money, combined with the £600,000 already committed by Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster, will help those hit hardest in recent months by promoting what Belfast has to offer.

We hope that this then encourages people to come back to the city to make the most of our fantastic retail and hospitality offering. In turn, this will help protect the future of hundreds of local businesses and the livelihoods of those employed across Belfast.

“Pubs of Ulster and the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association will continue to work closely with Belfast City Council, as well as all of our political representatives, to ensure Belfast continues to get the support it needs. However, we need the people of Belfast to get behind our local businesses. We therefore call upon people to get Backin’ Belfast by getting back in our pubs, back in our restaurants and back in our shops.”

Pubs-of-Ulster-Welcomes-600000-Commitment-to-Help-Trade-in-Belfast

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

“We very much welcome today’s announcement by Finance Minister Sammy Wilson, and we believe that this is a step towards getting trade in Belfast back to health.

“Over the last number of weeks, Pubs of Ulster has been working closely with a number of Northern Ireland Ministers, as well as representatives from all of the main political parties, to find ways to support local businesses affected by the on-going flag protests. Whilst Belfast is the most critical and needs immediate help, these discussions will continue to ensure that the second phase of support –focused on all of Northern Ireland - is delivered in the very near future.

“However, today’s commitment of £600,000 to support an advertising campaign, specifically targeted at getting people back in Belfast, is a significant step forward. The bottom line is that most businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, depend on people coming through the door and this is where the greatest and most immediate support is needed.

“Pubs of Ulster is continuing to work across the board to ensure that everything that can be done, is being done to boost confidence and let people know that Belfast is very much open for business. However, we cannot stress enough that as well as political support, we need the people of Belfast to get behind this. We want the advertising campaign to act as a call to action, encouraging people to get back in our pubs, back in our restaurants and back in our shops.”