Hospitality Ulster and Mills Selig Launch Exclusive Legal Clinics for Hospitality Sector
16 September 2026
Running a hospitality business brings constant operational demands, but the legal issues underpinning those operations can be equally significant. From managing employees and safeguarding licensed premises to negotiating supplier contracts and planning for succession, decisions made today can directly affect a business’s resilience, profitability and future.
From Resilience to Growth: Building a Stronger Future for Northern Ireland Hospitality
15 September 2026
The recent success of the Fleadh in Belfast, together with The Open at Royal Portrush last year, demonstrates the considerable economic value of Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism industry. Major events attract visitors, spending and international exposure, with benefits extending beyond hotels, bars and restaurants to local suppliers, employment and communities. However, strong visitor numbers do not automatically translate into sustainable profitability. For hospitality businesses, the operating environment remains exceptionally challenging. A higher rate of VAT than competitors in the Republic of Ireland and several European markets, alongside business rates, rising wages and increased food and energy costs, continues to compress margins and constrain investment. The key question is therefore not simply how Northern Ireland attracts more visitors, but how the sector converts demand into profitable, sustainable growth.
UKHospitality Chief Executive Visits Northern Ireland To Hear Directly From Sector And Policymakers
09 September 2026
UKHospitality Chief Executive Allen Simpson visited Northern Ireland this week for a series of meetings with hospitality leaders, political representatives, senior civil servants, and financial institutions. The two-day visit, which took place on Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 September, was organised by Hospitality Ulster and provided an opportunity for Simpson to hear directly from businesses about the opportunities and challenges facing Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism sector, while strengthening links between the two organisations.
Is Your Hospitality Business Underinsured? The Hidden Risk Facing Hotels, Pubs, Restaurants & Cafes
08 September 2026
When hospitality operators think about insurance, they often focus on ensuring they have cover in place. However, a growing concern across the sector is not a lack of insurance, but underinsurance.
Gaining Greater Control Over Labour Costs
02 September 2026
Gaining Greater Control Over Labour Costs Labour costs remain one of the most significant expenses for hospitality businesses. Whether managing a restaurant, hotel, café or bar, operators are constantly balancing great customer experiences with efficient operations.
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VAT Reduction And Rates Reform Necessary To Grow Hospitality Sector ... Latest Survey Says
28 August 2026
A new survey of hospitality operators across Northern Ireland conducted by CGA by NIQ has found that 92% believe that a VAT reduction for hospitality and 69% believe the lowering of business rates bills are necessary steps for their businesses to grow. A further 86% of those surveyed cited VAT costs as their key concern for the next 12 months and 71% cited business rates. Undertaken by industry bodies, Hospitality Ulster, UKHospitality, The British Institute of Innkeeping, and the British Beer & Pub Association, the survey was undertaken in Q2 2026 and indicates the feeling of the industry since the launch of the #VATsTheProblem campaign in July.