FSB makes Christmas wish list for UK tourism, hospitality and retail

01 Sep 2023

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has released a Christmas wish list in the run up to the festive season.

The FSB says its Tinsel List will bring a surge of fresh energy to the hospitality and retail sectors this winter.

FSB's Tinsel List of asks includes more accessible high streets, with better parking and public transport options.

The business group also suggests that raising the VAT threshold from £85,000 to £100,000 could spark growth across the economy.

It would also like to see the Small Business Rates Relief threshold increase to £25,000 to remove 200,000 small firms out of the rates system, while cheaper energy costs are also vital.

Finally, the FSB wants tax free shopping for international visitors to be reinstated, which it says would provide a £4 billion boost to GDP.

FSB National Chair, Martin McTague, said: 'The summer season will soon be drawing to a close and although the festive season might seem like a long way off, now is the time to take steps to help claw some of that confidence back.

'The next big wave of tourists is likely to flock here to spend their hard-earned cash on Christmas gifts, explore yuletide markets and savour classic roast dinners – indeed, the UK has always been a popular holiday destination over winter.'