J D Wetherspoon says it will be supporting Tax Equality Day on September 13 by discounting food and drink by 7.5% for 24 hours.
The day is aimed at highlighting the benefit of a VAT reduction in the hospitality industry and is being backed by UK Hospitality and the British Beer and Pub Association, who are urging other venue owners to join in.
Food in pubs, for instance, has VAT at 20%, while much is zero rated in supermarkets.
Wetherspoon chairman, Tim Martin, said: “Pubs suffer a huge disadvantage, paying about 16p in business rates per pint versus about 2p for supermarkets. In addition, there is a huge VAT inequality and unfairness.
“A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will create a level playing field and generate growth and jobs in an important and vital industry — especially in beleaguered high streets.”
