The government has appointed business rates guru Jerry Schurder to lead a review of pub and hotel business rates valuations.
The news follows the government’s announcement last month that business rates bills for pubs, social clubs and live music venues will be cut by 20% from April 2027.
The new review will look at ways of improving the current business rates system to ensure it is fair and transparent, enabling pubs and hotels to plan better for the future.
Schurder, who formerly worked for Newmark UK, will lead the independent review and report back to the Treasury by the end of March 2027, in time for his recommendations to be implemented at the next revaluation in 2029 – 2026 valuations will not be affected.
James Murray, financial secretary to the Treasury, said: “Pubs and hotels are vital for communities and bringing growth to every postcode. Last month we announced tax cuts for pubs to give them the breathing room they need. Today we’re going further with a rethink of valuations – so that we can build a fairer system for the future.”
Schurder added: “I look forward to hearing from businesses, representative bodies and valuation professionals as we assess how the current valuation methodologies for pubs and hotels operate in practice and whether they remain fit for purpose. Stakeholder evidence and engagement will be central to informing the review’s recommendations.”
