The vital role of an accountant in your hospitality business.

Jun 1, 2024 | Hospitality

Running a hospitality business, whether it’s a pub, hotel, restaurant or any other service-oriented establishment, is a complex endeavour.

From managing daily operations to ensuring guest satisfaction, there are multiple aspects of a hospitality business that require careful attention. Amidst this intricate landscape, having an accountant becomes indispensable, serving as the financial backbone of your business.

In this article, we’ll explore the vital role an accountant plays in your hospitality enterprise.

Compliance with HMRC and Companies House

An accountant’s primary responsibility is to maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with HMRC and Companies House.
The hospitality sector is subject to various taxes, including VAT, employer’s national insurance, corporation tax and even machine games duty (in certain circumstances).

A specialist hospitality accountant, like Taxsure, will navigate these complexities, ensuring timely submissions, reducing the risk of penalties or late payment interest charges.

In the event of a tax investigation, Taxsure can represent your business on your behalf. We will provide HMRC with the necessary documentation to satisfy their enquiry.

Bookkeeping

In the hospitality industry, where cash transactions are prevalent, meticulous bookkeeping is crucial. An accountant will oversee the recording of all financial transactions, from guest payments to supplier invoices, ensuring transparency in your accounting system.

Taxsure uses Xero to maintain sound financial records for our clients. We include this comprehensive cloud-based accounting system for free with our hospitality accounting packages.

Payroll management

The hospitality industry is labour-intensive, and managing payroll can be a daunting task. Taxsure can streamline these processes, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, financial guidance for employee remuneration packages and compliance with pension regulations.

Tax planning

Taxsure identifies tax saving opportunities specific to the hospitality industry, such as deductions for staff parties, trivial benefits, acts and entertainment as well as capital allowances for equipment and utensils. We also advise on tax-efficient business structures and strategies to minimise tax liabilities.

Additionally, if your hospitality business plans to expand or renovate, Taxsure will advise on the tax implications and potential tax incentives or deductions available for such investments.

Finally, family-owned hospitality businesses, Taxsure can assist with estate and succession planning to mitigate inheritance tax charges and ensure a smooth transition of ownership to the next generation.

Budgeting and forecasting

Effective budgeting and forecasting are essential for the long-term success of any hospitality business. At Taxsure, we will collaborate with you to create realistic budgets based on historical data, market trends and future projections. These budgets will serve as a roadmap, guiding your operational and financial decisions.

Furthermore, we can provide you with a cash flow forecast, enabling you to anticipate potential shortfalls or surpluses and plan accordingly.

Click here to learn how you can improve cash flow for your hospitality business.

Financial performance analysis

Profitability is the lifeline of any business, and the hospitality industry is no exception. An accountant plays a pivotal role in analysing costs, identifying areas for improvement and thus maximising profitability. Taxsure utilises cloud-based technology to track expenses such as labour costs, stock, utilities and maintenance. We provide valuable insights into cost-saving opportunities for our clients in the hospitality sector.

Additionally, we perform profitability analysis on room rates, menu pricing and events sales. By understanding which areas are generating the most profit and which are under performing, you can make informed decisions to enhance your bottom line.

Strategic business advice

Beyond our accounting expertise, we serve as a trusted hospitality business advisor. By providing valuable insights and recommendations for strategic planning and decision-making. With our in-depth understanding of your business’ financials, market trends and industry best practices, Taxsure offers advice on growth opportunities and operational improvements.

Moreover, Taxsure goes above and beyond in evaluating the financial viability of new ventures, such as opening a new location, introducing a new menu or exploring alternative revenue streams. Our analytical skills and business acumen can help you make informed decisions that align with your long-term personal and business goals.

In conclusion

In the dynamic and competitive hospitality industry, having expert hospitality accountants by your side is invaluable.

Taxsure’s expertise extends far beyond crunching numbers; we serve as a strategic partner, guiding you through financial complexities, maximising profitability and ensuring the long-term success of your hospitality business.

With Taxsure by your side, you can make informed decisions, optimise your operations and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving hospitality sector.

Contact our specialist hospitality accountants today.

Contact us now for a professional service with a personalised approach.