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Tourism businesses: we want to hear from you

New STEAM figures highlight the continued importance of tourism to North Kesteven, with visitor spending supporting local businesses, jobs, and attractions across the district.

Some standout figures include 3 million tourism visits within North Kesteven across a year, and day visits to the District generating £142m in 2025. But the data only tells part of the story.

North Kesteven District Council are launching a Tourism and Hospitality Business Survey to better understand the opportunities and challenges facing businesses, from rising costs and recruitment issues to seasonal trade. Your feedback will help shape future support and strengthen the visitor economy for everyone.

Please spare a few minutes to share your thoughts and take the survey, it closes on 30 November.

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Launch of a new tourism and hospitality business survey

New STEAM data confirms the ongoing importance of tourism to our local economy, with visitor spending helping to sustain businesses, jobs and visitor attractions across the district.

To build a clearer picture of the sector, North Kesteven District Council is seeking feedback through a new Tourism and Hospitality Business Survey.
Whether you’re facing rising operating costs, recruitment challenges or seasonal fluctuations, your insights will help inform future support and investment in the visitor economy.

Complete the survey before 30 November and make your voice heard.

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Register for the North Kesteven Tourism & Hospitality Networking Event

Calling all North Kesteven tourism and hospitality businesses – are you looking to grow your network and connect with industry peers?
Join our free Tourism & Hospitality Networking Event to share ideas, build partnerships and help strengthen the district’s visitor offer.
The event is free to attend but booking is essential. Register your free place: https://tourismandhospitalitynetworking.eventbrite.com
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Digital proof of age now accepted for alcohol sales

Changes to the Licensing Act 2003 came into force on 15 September 2026, allowing customers in England and Wales to use approved digital proof of age when purchasing alcohol.
Digital IDs are verified through secure authentication and displayed via a time-limited QR code. Businesses can choose to accept digital proof of age or continue requiring traditional forms of identification, such as a passport or driving licence.
Find out more here.
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Recognition for businesses that go the extra mile

Nominations for the 2026 NK Community Champion Awards are open, and give people the chance to shine a spotlight on a community-focused business that deserves recognition.

One of the awards celebrates businesses that make a positive difference through their support for local communities. The Duke of Wellington in Leasingham took home the title last year. Could your business be next?
Nominations close on 14 September.
Self-nominations are welcome, as are those from customers or community groups supported through a business’s generosity, such as donations, volunteering, or community-focused work.

Visit NK Community Champion Awards to nominate.

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Taste of Excellence Awards are now open

North Kesteven is home to many outstanding food, drink and hospitality businesses, and now is the time to celebrate them.

Whether you’re a business owner or a loyal customer, submit a nomination for the Taste of Excellence Awards and help recognise the people and places that make our district such a great place to eat, drink and visit.
The closing date for nominations is 31 August.

Cast your vote today!

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Tour of Britain – business engagement webinar

Could your business benefit from the Lloyds Tour of Britain coming to Lincoln?

Join the Visit Lincolnshire team for an exciting webinar and discover how your business can make the most of one of the UK’s biggest sporting events as the Lloyds Tour of Britain arrives in Lincoln on 2 September.

You’ll find out:

✅ How your business can get involved
✅ Ways to attract new customers and visitors
✅ Opportunities to maximise the economic impact of the event
✅ How you can help make this a landmark occasion for Lincolnshire.

It’s taking place on 29th July, from 7pm to 8pm.

Register your place.

The joining link will be emailed to registered attendees on the morning of the webinar.

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Latest Local Government Reorganisation update

Following the Government’s announcement on 16 July regarding Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Lincolnshire, businesses across North Kesteven can be reassured that there will be no immediate changes to council services, business support, funding advice, grants, or business rates.

The Secretary of State has indicated a preference for creating two new unitary councils across Greater Lincolnshire, replacing Lincolnshire County Council and the seven district councils from 1 April 2028. Elections for the new “shadow councils” are expected in May 2027.

For businesses, it’s very much business as usual. North Kesteven District Council’s Economic Development team will continue to provide support, including:

✅ Business advice and guidance
✅ Information on funding and grant opportunities
✅ Networking and growth support
✅ Help for businesses looking to start, expand or invest
✅ Ongoing access to council services

The current councils will continue operating and delivering services until 31 March 2028, ensuring continuity for businesses, residents, and communities throughout the transition.

For further information, visit the North Kesteven District Council website or contact the Economic Development team at [email protected].

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Tour of Britain brings major opportunity for Lincolnshire businesses

The Tour of Britain arrives in Lincolnshire on 2-3 September 2026, bringing significant visitor spend and national exposure.
With thousands expected and strong dwell time in Lincoln, businesses can boost trade across retail, hospitality and attractions. Now is the time to prepare.
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Young entrepreneurs invited to trade at NK Young Traders events

North Kesteven District Council is offering young people the chance to gain hands-on business experience through two NK Young Traders events this August.

Young traders can showcase and sell their products at events in Sleaford (8 August) and Ruskington (15 August), alongside popular family activities and community attractions. Interested young people can apply via: https://www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/visitors-leisure/markets