MSP discusses industry challenges with Annan hospitality operator

SOUTH Scotland MSP Craig Hoy recently visited Our Place in Annan, owned by Stephen Montgomery of the Scottish Hospitality Group, for a discussion about the significant challenges currently facing the sector.

Joined by constituency MSP Oliver Mundell, Mr Hoy met with Mr Montgomery at his High Street restaurant to hear about the financial pressures confronting rural hospitality businesses and the sector more widely.

With costs continuing to rise and government support falling short, Stephen Montgomery raised serious concerns about the sustainability of businesses like his following challenges such as the Labour UK Government’s National Insurance increase.

Mr Montgomery highlighted looming financial challenges being imposed by decisions in both the UK and Scottish Budgets.

He expressed concern about lack of support for hospitality businesses with a rateable value above £51,000 in the Scottish Government’s budget, as well as the impact of Labour jobs tax increases and the rise in the minimum wage.

Mr Hoy said: “It is always valuable to get out of the Holyrood bubble and hear directly from industry experts. Our Place and many hospitality venues like it are vital to our local economy and our rural communities.

"They need real support from both Labour and the SNP, but sadly this has not been forthcoming.

"I will continue to push for business rates relief and support for the hospitality sector which is vital to the local economy in Dumfriesshire.”