Scouse Family Behind Home Bargains Among UK’s Top Taxpayers

The Morris family, founders of Home Bargains, have emerged as one of the UK’s top taxpayers. According to The Sunday Times Tax List 2026, they paid £209.1 million in tax last year, placing them seventh on the list. This significant tax contribution highlights their success and growth within the retail sector.

Home Bargains: A Storied History

Home Bargains, originally known as Home and Bargain, started as a single store in Old Swan, Liverpool, in 1976. Tom Morris, the founder, was only 21 years old at the time. Over the past five decades, the family-owned business has expanded to over 500 locations across the UK, making it a prominent name in discount retail.

Financial Contributions and Community Support

• Last year, the Morris family contributed £209.1 million in taxes.
• Home Bargains is part of TJ Morris Ltd, which encompasses their retail operations.
• The company recently donated £2.5 million to Zoe’s Place, a children’s hospice.
• A partnership is underway with the builder of Beetham Tower for a high-rise development in Liverpool.

Tax List Highlights

The Sunday Times Tax List 2026 revealed that the top 100 taxpayers were responsible for a total tax contribution of £5.758 billion, an increase from £4.985 billion the previous year. To qualify for this prestigious ranking, individuals or families must pay at least £11 million in tax, a figure that has increased by £500,000 since 2025.

Notable Taxpayers

This year’s list is diverse, including various sectors. Some notable entries include:

• Fred and Peter Done of Betfred, the highest contributors at £400.1 million.
• Harry Styles, former One Direction star, at number 54 with a payment of £24.7 million.
• Footballers Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah, with tax contributions of £16.9 million and £14.5 million, respectively.
• JK Rowling (number 36, £47.5 million) and Ed Sheeran (number 64, £19.9 million).

Shifts in Tax Residency

This year’s report noted that six taxpayers have left the UK in the past year. Additionally, eight others have been living offshore for an extended period. Individuals such as Nik Storonsky, Malcolm Healey, and Eddie Hearn are included in this count.

Robert Watts, compiler of The Sunday Times Tax List, remarked on the diversity of the entries, noting an increasing representation of various professions. The growth in tax contributions has largely been attributed to rising corporation tax rates, with fourteen entries exceeding £100 million in tax payments.

The substantial contributions from businesses and individuals reflect the ongoing economic landscape in the UK. As the sector evolves, Home Bargains continues to play a crucial role in this narrative.