London West End Shops Say ‘Tourist Tax’ Worse Than Inflation
- Survey says 92% were hit by post-Brexit loss of VAT incentive
- Evidence was presented at Parliamentary debate Thursday
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Businesses in London’s West End have been more affected by the loss of tax-free shopping for tourists than by the UK’s stubborn cost-of-living crisis, according to an industry group.
A survey from the New West End Company found that 92% of retail, hospitality, leisure and food and drink businesses say they’ve been impacted by the end of VAT-free shopping following Brexit. That compares with 58% for the cost-of-living crisis and inflation.