Business rates anxiety hits record high

A poll carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has revealed that business rates anxiety has hit a record high, with 34% of firms worried about their rates.

This represents the highest level recorded since 2017.

While the Government has indicated it is considering a rethink on business rates for pubs, BCC research shows the disquiet being felt goes much wider.

The hospitality, manufacturing and logistics sector face the highest levels of concern, but business size is also a factor, with anxiety over rates highest for firms with 10 to 49 employees (43%).

Before the 2025 Autumn Budget, 23% of firms stated that they were planning to adjust prices as a result of rising business rates.

Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy and Insights at the BCC, said: 'The Chancellor recognised in the Autumn Budget that the current system for business rates is broken and holding back growth. But it is becoming increasingly clear that the changes she set out are not balanced and leave some sectors over-exposed.

'While news of a carve out for pubs is welcome, there are many other smaller hospitality companies facing an existential threat. Meanwhile at the other end of the scale, airports and hotel chains are expected to pay millions more.'

The BCC has called on the government to rethink its plans for business rates to help ease anxiety.

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