Business rates are one of the biggest pressures facing UK hospitality right now, and for many operators it feels like the cost that never stops rising. In this solo episode, Tim Mills breaks down what business rates are meant to do, how the system evolved, why it’s become such a flashpoint for pubs, restaurants and hotels, and what the latest changes could mean in 2026.

The episode explores the politics behind property taxation, the high street vs online giants debate, and why so many venues feel like they’re being taxed harder simply for operating in physical spaces. Tim also shares practical steps operators can take to reduce the impact where possible, plus how say86 is working to support hospitality businesses by helping them access better supplier costs, smarter services, and specialist support like rates brokers.

In this episode of the say86 podcast, we take a deep dive into how hospitality operators can rethink procurement as a commercial advantage, not a back-office task. From supplier relationships and cost control to consistency, scalability and smarter decision-making, we explore how procurement quietly shapes margins, guest experience and operational resilience.

With rising costs, tighter labour markets and increasing complexity across the industry, the way operators buy, source, and manage suppliers has never mattered more. This conversation looks at how procurement decisions impact everything from menu design to service flow, and why getting it right can unlock time, clarity and confidence for teams on the ground.

A must-listen for operators, founders and hospitality leaders looking to future-proof their business in 2026 and beyond.

In this episode of the say86 Podcast, host Tim Mills speaks with Brian Vujnovic and Robert Finvarb, founders of MIA Hospitality Management, a company built on the principles of Mastery, Innovation and Assurance. With decades of operational, ownership and development experience, they share a grounded look at how hospitality is changing, and what it now takes to run successful hotels.

Together, they discuss the state of the industry, from labour pressures and shifting guest expectations to the behind-the-scenes challenges that determine whether a property thrives. The conversation explores the influence of Gen Z, the rise of digital and AI-driven operations, and why many traditional approaches no longer hold up in today’s market.

Brian and Robert also outline where the biggest opportunities lie, what the next decade of hospitality might look like, and the operational gaps most owners still overlook. This is a candid, forward-looking discussion for operators, developers and anyone interested in the future of hotel management.