In light of the ongoing struggles facing the UK’s festival scene, the Association of Independent Festivals (AIF) has put forth a solution dubbed ‘5% for Festivals‘ and is seeking support from enthusiasts to make it a reality. This might just be one of the most important new schemes for live music in the UK.
Find out how festivals choose their headline acts here
The past few years have been tumultuous for the events industry, with rising costs exacerbated by the pandemic, Brexit, inflation, and energy crises. Small and independent festivals, in particular, have borne the brunt of these challenges, with many forced to cancel or scale back their operations.
AIF CEO John Rostron highlighted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for immediate action to safeguard the future of the festival sector. The ‘5% for Festivals’ campaign proposes a temporary reduction in VAT on ticket sales from 20% to 5% for the next three years. Rostron explains that
Supporters of the initiative can join the movement by visiting the newly launched campaign website, which outlines the industry’s challenges and provides resources for engaging with policymakers. By advocating for this VAT reduction, festival-goers can play a crucial role in preserving the vibrant cultural landscape and ensuring the longevity of their favorite events.
In a landscape where festivals are facing unprecedented challenges, the ‘5% for Festivals’ campaign offers a beacon of hope and a tangible way for the community to rally together in support of the music scene.
Check out the AIF Website Here
Find out more about “5% for Festivals” Here
