Norfolk's small businesses warn many may be gone in months due to rising costs
VAT rates are no longer reduced and footfall is still below pre-pandemic level
Last updated 25th Apr 2022
Small businesses across Norfolk are warning that many of them may not be here in a few months- owing to the rising taxes and cost of living.
It comes as VAT rates are no longer reduced, inflation is at it's highest point in thirty years and footfall is still below pre-pandemic level.
Kevin Reynolds owns Netherton Steakhouse in Long Stratton and fears the last two years has had a lasting effect: "We used to get drinkers regularly and at the bar they don't really come.
"I think the whole social habits have changed, people have been used to for over two years staying at home in the evening.
"We get a few workers who come straight after their job and have a pint before they go home, but none of the later trade in fact we now close quite early in comparison to what we're used to".
He told us says they're having to make difficult decisions: "We've had to put the prices up. It's not just the prices of the beer because they have gone up and everything else has gone up regarding the delivery.
"It's the fact that the food rate has gone up and therefore the costs have increased and people are saying we can only afford to come in for special occasions now, whereas you used to come in on a more regular basis".
"The cost of everything, including the veg suppliers, the meat suppliers, the cost of the electric has gone up. my electric's gone up over 300 pound a month.
"The gas has just gone up by quite a high amount and all the costs are increasing on a regular basis".
Mr Reynolds told us that the current picture is worrying everyone: "They are very concerned about how fast inflation is rising, because it's not just our costs it's their costs at home as well.
"Their costs at home are starting to bite and they are concerned that if they continue to go out and enjoying themselves, then they won't be able to take their kids on holiday for example".