Hospitality VAT increase ‘tax on consumer’ – VFI

The decision by the Government to increase the Hospitality VAT rate from 9% to 13.5% from 1st September is extremely disappointing and is a tax on the consumer, says the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI). For pubs serving food the special 9% VAT rate was a crucial intervention at a time when the cost of […]

Support local pubs through excise reduction, says Trade body

A new report from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has shown a continuing decline in the number of pubs across Ireland, with the rate of decline accelerating since Covid-19. The Irish Pub: Supporting our communities report, based on the group’s analysis1 shows a 22.5% decline in the number of pubs in the State […]

Insurance: Enough is Enough!

Alliance for Insurance Reform launches its Enough is Enough campaign to mark the commencement of legislation rebalancing the duty of care between occupiers and the public. “The new legislation will only work if it is implemented in the spirit it was intended by the judiciary, insurers, the legal profession, and ultimately, by the Irish public.” […]

HEINEKEN partners with LVA and VFI in new recruitment campaign

‘There’s No Experience Like Bar Experience’ HEINEKEN is joining forces with the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) and the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA) to roll out a new cross-industry campaign for the pub sector to attract new talent into Ireland’s on trade and to showcase the dynamic career options on offer. Staffing remains a challenge […]

Pubs fighting back to pre-Covid levels, says VFI

Almost three-quarters of publicans outside Dublin say turnover is now similar or greater than pre-Covid, with many expected to upgrade their pubs in the coming year. A new survey shows the vast majority are confident about the future of their bars, despite the spiralling cost of energy, insurance and other operating expenses. The research for […]

VFI and LVA launch Irish Pub Awards 2023

The Irish Pub Awards 2023 are now live.  The awards are jointly presented by Vintners’ Federation Ireland (VFI) and Licenced Vintners Association (LVA). Pubs are now free to enter up to nine categories with judging set to take place over the summer. The Irish Pub Awards Gala night, where the overall National Pub of the […]

VAT and TBESS extensions welcome but challenges remain

The extension of the hospitality 9% VAT rate for a further six months and changes to Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS), making it easier for more publicans to qualify, have been welcomed by the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI). The Federation says the announcements will help ease the financial burden on its members over […]

Proposed legislation threatens rural pubs – VFI

The Sale of Alcohol Bill has the potential to undermine the entire rural pub trade and unless some sections of the Bill are altered many family-run businesses will close, says the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland. While many elements within the Sale of Alcohol Bill are welcomed by the trade, publicans are concerned by the proposal […]