Oli Khan reflects on BCA's 65-year history, the pressures facing hospitality and the association's 2025 policy priorities.
Over nearly three decades, I have witnessed moments of pride, unity, and achievement, as well as times of challenge and renewal. Through it all, the BCA has remained a steadfast symbol of strength, resilience, and community spirit within the British Bangladeshi catering industry.
Now, in my second year as President of the BCA UK, I am deeply honoured to celebrate the 65th anniversary of this distinguished organisation. This milestone stands as a tribute to the tireless dedication of our past leaders and members, whose vision and commitment have shaped the BCA into the respected institution it is today. I extend my sincere gratitude to each of them for their enduring service and sacrifice over the past six and a half decades.
Founded in 1960, the BCA has been at the very heart of the Great British curry industry — an industry that has become an integral part of British culture and identity. The BCA is rightly regarded as the "mother of all organisations" and the "mother of all awards." Our first awards ceremony, held in 1995 at Baylis House Hotel in Slough, marked the beginning of a proud tradition that continues to celebrate culinary excellence and entrepreneurial achievement across the United Kingdom.
Yet, despite our collective successes, the hospitality sector faces serious challenges. Rising costs — from National Insurance contributions and goods prices to soaring utility bills — are putting enormous pressure on small and medium-sized businesses. According to government statistics, around 35 such businesses close every single day. Urgent government intervention is needed to provide grants, accessible loans, and a reduction in VAT to help these vital enterprises survive.
The hospitality industry is a cornerstone of the UK economy — supporting jobs, driving growth, and sustaining communities. Since the last Budget, however, our sector has lost nearly 90,000 jobs. By contrast, over the previous decade, the industry created an average of 26,000 jobs each year. To restore stability and growth, I urge the Chancellor to consider three key measures in the upcoming Budget:
- Lower Business Rates to Revitalise High Streets. Apply a maximum rateable value discount for hospitality businesses under £500,000 to ensure relief reaches those most in need.
- Reform National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to Boost Employment. Extend NIC exemptions to young people and those returning from welfare, encouraging job creation, and reducing the benefits burden.
- Reduce VAT on Hospitality to Drive Investment. Align with our European counterparts by lowering VAT for hospitality — a targeted, affordable measure that will protect jobs and stimulate growth.
Furthermore, the recent immigration policy changes introduced on July 22, 2025, have placed additional strain on the sector. By removing most hospitality roles from the Skilled Worker visa list and raising skill and salary thresholds (now at RQF Level 6), the government risks creating a severe shortage of skilled workers, including chefs and restaurant managers, within just a few years down the line. This policy urgently needs reconsideration.
I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated Award committee convenor — Atik Rahman and his team, Chefs committee head Shamsul Alam Khan, Restaurant committee head M.K. Zaman Jewel, Shohidul Haque Choudhury, Jila Miah and rest of the committee members for their exceptional hard work in making this celebration possible. My sincere thanks also go to our sponsors, supporters for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Finally, I would like to thank all my predecessors and the current National Executive Council and members for their unwavering support.
Together, we are stronger. Thank you all for standing beside the BCA and for your continued commitment to the Great British curry industry. Thank you.
Transcribed from the 2025 BCA Awards programme. Line breaks and clear scan errors have been normalised for readability.