Harpers Wine & Spirit Trade News

Edinburgh visitor levy scheme draft sparks mixed reactions

Published: 16 August, 2024

A draft scheme ahead of the Policy and Sustainability Committee meeting on 22 August proposes a visitor levy in Edinburgh, allowing accommodation providers to retain 2.5% of the proceeds to cover their costs. The visitor levy, a fee imposed on overnight stays, is intended to raise funds for local services and tourism-related projects. UKHospitality Scotland supports this measure, emphasising that it is vital to prevent the levy from hindering investment, economic growth and job creation in the sector.

Visitor Levy in Scotland delayed until 2026 at the earliest

Published: 30 May, 2024

The Visitor Levy Bill, passed on Tuesday (28 June) by the Scottish Parliament, concludes a decade-long debate on whether councils should have the authority to introduce a visitor levy or tourist tax. The Bill empowers councils to consider and potentially implement such a levy, although it won't come into effect until 2026 at the earliest.

Small businesses disadvantaged as DRS saga continues

Published: 03 March, 2023

The Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) continues to express serious concerns over the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) ahead of the August launch date with many questions about its operation still unanswered and small businesses still disadvantaged.

Business energy support to reduce from March government announces

Published: 11 January, 2023

The goverment has announced a new energy support for businesses that will take effect from 1 April 2023, although at a lower rate than the present scheme.