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“The Welsh government need to realise that what they’re doing is damaging the industry.”
That’s according to Sam Regan, owner and managing director of the Lemon Tree – a hotel and restaurant in Wrexham.
The city has gained international attention in recent years as the home of the football club with the Hollywood star owners.
But despite the high-profile investment of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the hospitality industry here, and across Wales, is struggling amid a series of challenges.
“We’ve been in a little bit of a bubble because of the media attention brought by Wrexham football club. But it’s not the whole answer,” Mr Regan told Sky News.
‘Major implications’
Mr Regan, who is also chair of the regional tourism partnership, says international visitors are bringing “much higher spends” to Wrexham than a domestic market, but this may not be the case in the long-term.
The challenges facing the hospitality industry are not exclusive to Wales – they include rising food costs and higher utility bills.
But at an already difficult time for the sector, business rates relief for Welsh retail, hospitality and leisure businesses are being slashed.
In the last financial year, businesses were eligible for 75% off their liability, but this year that’s been reduced to 40%.
“The average business in Wrexham is going to be affected to the tune of about £8,000 by the decision not to give the 75% and keep the 35% back for other purposes in Wales,” Mr Regan added.
Sam Regan. Pic: Joe Bickerton
In England, the relief rate remains at 75%.
There is a concern from some that businesses will look to base themselves in England due to the difference in support.
“Anecdotally, I’ve heard evidence that a gym chain has been looking at Wrexham as an option and also Shrewsbury, which isn’t…
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