Thousands of jobs could be at risk as a result of a revaluation process, it’s been claimed.
The Northern Ireland Food To Go Association warned that Reval2026, carried out by Land & Property Services, was putting at risk businesses like cafés, takeaways, food trucks and local producers central to communities across Northern Ireland.
It warned that “more than 100 small food businesses and local producers could close if rates bills rise sharply, placing thousands of local jobs at risk and accelerating the loss of independent traders from high streets”.
Chief executive Michael Henderson said the sector faced a “tipping point”. “This is about small, independent food businesses. These are family-run cafés, takeaways and food trucks that employ local people who provide an essential service to our local communities every day.”
Draft figures released by LPS, part of the Department of Finance, show overall Net Annual Values (NAVs) have increased by around 15%, with sharp rises across hospitality-linked properties.
NAVs are combined by LPS with rates set by Stormont and councils in order to determine levels of business rates.
Mr Henderson added: “For many food-to-go businesses, even a relatively small increase in rates could be enough to push them over the edge and this could result in closures which could be avoided…
“When small food businesses disappear, they are rarely replaced. Empty units follow, jobs are lost and communities lose familiar places that people depend on every day…
“These businesses keep town centres alive and support local employment. Improved rental evidence does not mean improved viability, costs remain high, footfall is fragile and many small food businesses are hanging on by a thread.”
He said the association has now required an urgent meeting with Finance Minister John O’Dowd to discuss the potential impact of Reval2026.
“These businesses are not just balance sheets or valuation figures. They are the heartbeat and backbone of local communities, providing jobs, skills and everyday services people rely on. We need to make sure their voices are heard before it’s too late.”
Michael Henderson, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Food To Go Association
News Catch Up – Thursday 22 January
Kiera Campbell, chair of the Northern Ireland Food To Go Association, said: “Our members want to keep trading, employing and serving their communities, and it’s our role to make sure their voices are heard as rates decisions are taken.
“We are calling for meaningful engagement to ensure rates policy reflects the realities faced by cafés, takeaways, mobile operators and local producers across Northern Ireland. We want to ensure rates reform is fair, proportionate and does not undermine local economies.”
Angela McGrath, the Commissioner of Valuation for Northern Ireland, said last week: “LPS will review any new or relevant information ratepayers wish to bring forward now and make updates where appropriate before the new valuation list takes effect in April 2026.”