Big Yellow considering VAT fight
Big Yellow Group said its focus on London and the South East had helped it grow revenues ahead of expectations in the first quarter.
Big Yellow Group said its focus on London and the South East had helped it grow revenues ahead of expectations in the first quarter.
But with the introduction of VAT on self storage from October set to weigh on profits, the firm said that it was considering legal action to stop it.
"HM Treasury is pressing ahead with plans to introduce VAT and we expect the implementation to be confirmed following approval of the Finance Bill in Parliament later this month," Big Yellow said.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
"We have received a legal opinion from a leading tax counsel that there may be grounds to challenge the decision, and we are currently considering our legal options."
Any appeal to tax commissioners cannot take place until after the VAT hike comes in.
However, the firm said that strong revenue growth in the three months to the end of June would help mitigate the impact of the tax hike.
It said total revenue for its 54 wholly-owned stores was £16.9m, up 10% on the previous year.
Like-for-like revenue per available foot was £20.45 for the quarter, an increase of 10%.
Total revenues from its 12 partnership stores was up 36% to £1.9m.
"We are encouraged by the continuing strong performance of this business," said Chief Executive James Gibson.
"This growth is being driven by our London, South East and large metropolitan focus, coupled with the continued investment we are making in our store operations, market leading brand and online platform."
Sign up for MoneyWeek's newsletters
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
-
What happens if you can’t pay your tax bill, and what is "Time to Pay"?
Millions are due to file their tax return this Friday as the self-assessment deadline closes. Though the nightmare is not over until you pay the taxman what you owe - or face a penalty. But what happens if you can't afford to pay HMRC your tax bill, and what is "Time to Pay"?
By Kalpana Fitzpatrick Published
-
What does Rachel Reeves’s plan for growth mean for UK investors?
Rachel Reeves says she is going “further and faster” to kickstart the UK economy, but investors are unlikely to be persuaded
By Katie Williams Published