The owner of Cambridge’s celebrated A&B Guesthouse, Inga Grigaitiene, is looking to the Chancellor’s 2025 Autumn Budget for reassurance that small hospitality businesses will not face additional financial burdens in the months ahead.
From her guesthouse on Tenison Road, Inga reports that independent accommodation providers are contending with growing wage bills, commission charges from online booking services, and escalating utility and upkeep costs.
“Running a guesthouse is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a constant balancing act,” said Inga. “By the time you cover wages, cleaning, energy bills, and the high fees charged by booking platforms, there’s often very little left. I’m hopeful the Chancellor will recognise that small, independent hospitality businesses need relief, not more costs.”
She points out that the charm and warmth offered by independent guesthouses are central to Cambridge’s appeal as a destination.
“Guests love staying in independent places like ours because of the character, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality,” Inga added. “We’re proud to represent the heart of local tourism, but every new financial burden makes it harder to keep going. I really hope this Budget supports small businesses rather than pushing them to the brink.”
Inga is urging the government to consider supportive measures such as ongoing rate relief and VAT adjustments to help protect the survival of small hospitality providers.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.aandbguesthousecambridge.com.
