Scottish agents set to miss out on business rates relief again

Holyrood on Wednesday (4 December) extended 40% business rates relief to most of Scotland’s hospitality industry, meaning it enjoys the same concession as England and Wales.

However, unlike Westminster, it failed to offer it to retail and leisure businesses, including travel agencies. The Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) called the decision “unfair and shortsighted”.

“As an organisation, we at the SPAA have advocated for parity with England and Wales, where travel agents benefit from rates relief,” said a spokesperson on Thursday (5 December). “Now we’re also asking for parity with hospitality businesses in our own high streets.

“The exclusion places Scottish travel agents at a competitive disadvantage, stifling growth and investment. High street travel agents are essential to Scotland’s economy, supporting both outbound and inbound travel.”