UK hospitality business confidence rises to 53% in Q3, NIQ survey shows

• UK hospitality business confidence rose to 53% in the third quarter of 2026 from 37% in the previous quarter.
• Revenue matched or exceeded year-earlier levels at 84% of businesses; 57% reported profits at or above last year's levels.
• Only 11% of independent operators were optimistic about business prospects, the lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Rising energy bills affected 68% of operators, while 84% were concerned about food and drink inflation.
• Operators sought VAT cuts, lower National Insurance contributions and extended business rates support ahead of the October 28 Budget to unlock investment.

Disclaimer: This news brief was created by Public Technologies (PUBT) using generative artificial intelligence. While PUBT strives to provide accurate and timely information, this AI-generated content is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as financial, investment, or legal advice. NIQ Global Intelligence plc published the original content used to generate this news brief on October 26, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained therein.