Latest News & Updates from Hospitality Ulster
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Explore the latest news and updates from Hospitality Ulster, the trade body for the hospitality sector in Northern Ireland. Our news section provides timely statements and insights on industry developments, ensuring our members and stakeholders are well-informed and supported in navigating challenges and opportunities within the licensed trade industry.
UKHospitality Chief Executive Visits Northern Ireland To Hear Directly From Sector And Policymakers
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
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
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.

VAT Reduction And Rates Reform Necessary To Grow Hospitality Sector ... Latest Survey Says
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.

Know what you
Know what you're really paying to take card?

26 August 2026

A free card payments audit for Hospitality Ulster members from BRISK Technology. Ask most operators what they pay in card fees and you’ll get the number on the front of the contract. Ask them what landed on last month’s statement and it’s a different figure — usually a higher one.

Legal Clinics For Hospitality Businesses
Legal Clinics For Hospitality Businesses

26 August 2026