Regulatory and Legal Affairs

💸 UK Hospitality opposes the UK government's proposal for mayors to introduce overnight visitor levies in England. This move potentially impacts an already struggling hospitality industry facing rising employment and business costs post-2026 revaluation. The proposal could raise holiday costs, reduce domestic travel, and impair international competitiveness, according to 200 industry leaders. UKHospitality demands a nationally consistent flat-fee model, 12 months’ notice, and support for compliance costs to mitigate negative effects.

🏠 PPHE Hotel Group plans to sell its New York site for $33.5M (£24.7M) to a US developer. The Manhattan property, bought in 2019, was intended for hotel development, but regulatory changes halted plans. Demolition and air rights acquisitions maximized exit value. The sale will close soon, using proceeds to repay $8.3M (£6.1M) debt. Greg Hegarty, co-CEO, cites strategic capital release for reinvestment in core regions.

🛋 Thomas Pritzker stepped down as executive chairman of Hyatt Hotels, a position he held since 2004, due to ties with Jeffrey Epstein, effective immediately. Mark Hoplamazian, CEO since 2006, takes over. Pritzker's resignation follows the Wall Street Journal's 2023 report on his frequent visits to Epstein's New York townhouse. His family's association with Hyatt dates to the late 1950s. Pritzker remains executive chairman at the Pritzker Organization. A search of Epstein's files shows 7,000 results linked to the Pritzker name.

🛒 London, 2026: A proposed 3% tourist tax could generate over £350m annually for the city, with Central London alone contributing £275m. Hoteliers fear this levy, amid 20% VAT and rising costs, threatens competitiveness. Westminster could raise £95m, while Camden, Kensington and Chelsea, and Tower Hamlets may exceed £20m each. Critics argue this tax, alongside high VAT, could make the UK less appealing to tourists, pushing the VAT rate to 27%. Industry seeks clarity on fund allocation.

📈 Scottish government increases business rates relief for hospitality venues to 40% for three years, excluding those with a rateable value over £100,000. Previously, relief stood at 15% after a January decrease. Leon Thompson of UKHospitality Scotland praises the move but warns of potential tax hikes due to increased rateable values. This relief contrasts with England's focus on aiding pubs. Serious reform of the business rates system is urged for future sustainability.

💸 UK, April 2025: 200 hospitality leaders, including Hilton and IHG, urge the government to scrap the Visitor Levy in England. This tax could add £100+ to a two-week UK family holiday. Wales and Scotland have already implemented similar taxes, adding significant costs. The sector, facing high taxes and costs, warns this tax will deter domestic travel. The UK’s hospitality VAT rate is already 20%, double that of countries like France and Spain. Consultation closes 18 February 2026.