Business rates specialist, Ruddle Merz, who have significant expertise in the leisure sector, are providing advice to senior professionals within the golf club industry about saving money on business rates.
Ruddle Merz have saved golf club clients in excess of £210,500 to date on business rates. Over the past 13 years they have worked with courses across the country. For one course alone Ruddle Merz made a saving of £91,000.
Ruddle Merz is speaking for the first time at the GCMA National Conference (Barcelo Hinckley Island Hotel in Leicestershire from 16-18 November). Nick Sercombe, director of surveying service from Ruddle Merz will be talking to members about the opportunities for possible business rates savings and how time is running out to get savings on the 2005 ratings list.
All firms have to pay business rates; no matter how large or small the operation and in England alone business rates cost in excess of £18 billion and property costs are widely regarded to be the second largest business outlay after salaries.
Keith Lloyd, chief executive of GCMA commented, “This is the first time that we have had a business rate specialist come and talk to members. In the current economic climate anything that can possibly save money is welcome news.”
Allan Milton, director at Ruddle Merz, added, “Many companies pay business rates without question, but there are certain changes in circumstance that could enable a potential reduction in rates. In some instances this saving can also be backdated. If factors beyond a company’s control affect trade or turnover a rate reduction can be requested.
“Examples include nearby road works, building work, including work done by the organisation itself, or even unforeseeable events like a fire, specifically in this sector Ruddle Merz has achieved temporary rate relief for a golf course which was disrupted when its bunkers were being renovated over a period of months thus causing problems for members and visitors alike. If a company has never challenged their business rates it is well worth making enquiries especially as rebates can sometimes be backdated and rates can be reviewed as far back as 2005.”
He added, “We know that many golf clubs are suffering financially because member numbers are dwindling and “corporate” days have been reduced as all companies cut costs. It therefore makes sense to look closely at business rates to ensure they are not being overpaid.”
With an HQ in Rutland and newly opened office at No 1 Poultry, London, Ruddle Merz advises clients across a whole range of business sectors on saving money on business rates.
Ruddle Merz www.ruddlemerz.co.uk