Blog - Ceres Shop

Caffè Nero Brews Up Record-Breaking Christmas Sales

Posted by Emma on 21st Jan 2025

Caffè Nero has announced record-breaking results for its Christmas trading period in the UK, marking a significant milestone in its history. Over the five weeks between 25 November and 30 December 2 … read more

Hospitality Industry Braces for £1 Billion National Insurance Hike

Posted by Emma on 21st Jan 2025

The UK hospitality sector is preparing to shoulder a £1 billion cost as changes to National Insurance Contributions (NICs) come into effect this April. Approximately 774,000 workers in the industry … read more

Episode 195 of The Ceres Podcast: Behind the Fryer with Charlie Collins and Cem Oktem

Posted by Emma on 20th Jan 2025

The fish and chip industry is a cornerstone of British culture, but it’s also a reflection of the broader economic landscape, filled with challenges and opportunities. In Episode 195 of The Ceres Po … read more

How Menu Creep Could Be Costing Your Fish and Chip Shop

Posted by Stelios on 19th Jan 2025

Running a successful fish and chip shop is as much about efficiency as it is about great food. However, one challenge that often creeps up unnoticed is "menu creep" – the gradual expansion of menu i … read more

Chick-fil-A Returns to the UK with Northern Ireland Openings

Posted by Emma on 17th Jan 2025

Chick-fil-A, the renowned US-based fast food chain, is returning to the UK market with two new restaurant openings in Northern Ireland. In partnership with Applegreen, a motorway service area operat … read more

Casual Dining in 2025: Recovery, Growth, and New Opportunities

Posted by Emma on 17th Jan 2025

The casual dining sector in the UK is entering a recovery phase in 2025, marked by renewed growth opportunities and strategic expansion, according to Christie & Co’s latest Business Outlook re … read more

Battered but Not Beaten: Why Fish & Chips Must Rise to the Challenge

Posted by Stelios on 14th Jan 2025

When even a Greggs sausage roll starts to feel like a luxury, it’s clear the British economy is in deep water. But here’s the thing: while the cost-of-living crisis is squeezing the pennies from e … read more

A Global Wheat Market Update – 13th January 2025

Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025

In the UK, the wheat market has largely mirrored global trends, with prices remaining steady. Winter wheat planting has seen a much smoother season than last year, particularly in Essex and surround … read more

From California to Cardiff: Carl’s Jr Set to Open Its First UK Restaurant

Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025

The American fast-food giant Carl’s Jr is gearing up to open its first UK restaurant this April in Cardiff. Known for its chargrilled burgers, breaded chicken tenders, and creamy ice cream shakes, t … read more

A Fresh Start: Podsquad Episode 194 Review

Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025

The Ceres Podcast kicks off 2025 with an engaging, thought-provoking, and often humorous discussion in Episode 194. Stelios hosts an animated conversation with guests David Miller, Mark Petrou, and … read more

Greggs Under Pressure: Sausage Roll Price Hike Sparks Consumer Outrage

Posted by Emma on 13th Jan 2025

Greggs, the UK’s largest bakery chain, is facing scrutiny after raising the price of its iconic sausage roll to £1.30—a 5p increase—amid growing pressures from rising wages, taxes, and food costs. T … read more

Edinburgh’s Proposed 5% Tourist Tax: A Boon or Burden for Hospitality Businesses?

Posted by Emma on 8th Jan 2025

Edinburgh City Council is preparing to implement a 5% tourist tax on accommodation costs, a move set to take effect in July 2026 if approved. The levy, aimed at generating up to £50 million annually … read more

Bounce Back Loan Fraud Lands London Restaurateur in Jail

Posted by Emma on 8th Jan 2025

A London-based restaurant owner has been ordered to repay £37,426 within three months after fraudulently obtaining a Covid Bounce Back Loan. The court ruled that failure to comply would result in an … read more

McDonald’s CEO Reveals 29 Employees Fired Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Posted by Emma on 7th Jan 2025

McDonald’s UK has come under intense scrutiny following revelations of sexual harassment and other workplace misconduct across its outlets. Alistair Macrow, the company’s UK chief executive, disclos … read more

The Future of Palm Oil: From Small Farms to National Compliance

Posted by Stelios on 6th Jan 2025

Palm oil is a key ingredient in our everyday lives – a popular frying medium for fish and chips to the pastry in pies, cleaning products, animal feed, and even biofuel-powering cars and lorries. Yet … read more

British Farmers Grapple with Worst Harvests in Decades

Posted by Stelios on 5th Jan 2025

Newly released data reveals that British farmers have endured one of the most challenging harvests since records began, raising serious concerns about the nation’s food security. The Department for … read more

Chick-fil-A’s Second Bite at the UK Market

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

Chick-fil-A, the American fast-food giant known for its chicken sandwiches, is attempting a comeback in the UK five years after its initial venture faced backlash over its historical ties to anti-LG … read more

Wingstop UK Sold to Sixth Street in Landmark £400M Deal

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

The UK arm of Wingstop, the popular fast-casual chicken wing chain, has been acquired by US investment firm Sixth Street in a deal valued at over £400 million. The sale marks a significant milestone … read more

Pizza Hut UK: A New Chapter on the Horizon?

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

The future of Pizza Hut’s dine-in restaurant business in the UK could soon take a new direction, with reports indicating that its largest franchise operator, Heart With Smart (HWS), is in advanced t … read more

Why Britain's Businesses and Workers Are Stuck in the Middle of a Policy Tug-of-War

Posted by Stelios on 5th Jan 2025

Walking past my local café last week, I noticed two signs in the window. One read "Staff Wanted." The other announced reduced hours due to "rising costs." When I stopped to chat with the owner, a fr … read more

From Red to Black: Wingstop UK's Remarkable Turnaround Amid Sale Speculations

Posted by Emma on 21st Dec 2024

In a striking turnaround, Wingstop UK has reported a robust pre-tax profit of £3.5 million for the financial year ending 31 March 2024, a significant recovery from a £2 million loss the previous yea … read more

KFC's Saucy Adventure: A New Spin on Fast Food

Posted by Emma on 21st Dec 2024

In a bold departure from its iconic red and white branding, KFC is set to unveil a new restaurant concept, Saucy, in Orlando, Florida, next Monday. This venture marks a significant shift for the fas … read more

Billingsgate Wrap: Keeping the wheels turning

Posted by Emily on 18th Dec 2024

Despite arriving 20 minutes late to its Friday evening pitch due to cold weather delaying the van’s start, Billingsgate Wrap already has customers queuing for fish and chips. Even with an additional … read more

Chipping Wharf: Redefining Simplicity in East London’s Fish & Chips

Posted by Emily on 18th Dec 2024

Sitting across the table from Mustafa Has, owner of Chipping Wharf in Bow, East London, there is an immense sense of relief coming from him as he looks around, finally able to feel proud of wha … read more

Keeping Workplaces Safe: A Step-by-Step Guide to COSHH Assessments

Posted by Emma on 18th Dec 2024

Workplace safety is a cornerstone of good business practices, and adhering to regulations like the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) is essential. COSHH protects employees from harm … read more

The Future of Fast Food: Itsu's Tech-Driven Strategy Amid Wage Increases

Posted by Emily on 18th Dec 2024

In the bustling heart of London's Oxford Street, where the cost of doing business is sky-high, the founder of Itsu, Julian Metcalfe, is not one to shy away from challenges. The entrepreneur, who rev … read more

Unions Push for Day-One Sick Pay Reform: Can Businesses Keep Up?

Posted by Emma on 6th Dec 2024

The government faces increasing pressure from trade unions to enhance Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), raising questions about the economic implications of such reforms. At the heart of the debate is whet … read more

Cod in Crisis: How Illegal Fishing and Quotas Threaten the Barents Sea

Posted by Stelios on 5th Dec 2024

The Barents Sea, a critical hub for global whitefish supply, faces a perfect storm of declining fish stocks, economic reliance on Russian imports, and concerns over illegal fishing. As quotas are s … read more

Business Rates Relief Announced for Hospitality in Scotland

Posted by Emma on 5th Dec 2024

UKHospitality has cautiously welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement of a 40% business rates relief for hospitality venues with a rateable value of up to £51,000. The relief, set to take ef … read more

National Insurance Increase Faces Backlash Amid Hospitality Fears

Posted by Emily on 5th Dec 2024

Plans to raise employers’ National Insurance contributions in 2025 have sparked heated debate in parliament, with cross-party MPs warning of dire consequences for the UK’s hospitality sector. The p … read more

Doner Shack Relocates Headquarters to the US, Citing UK Tax Challenges

Posted by Emily on 2nd Dec 2024

The well-known kebab restaurant brand Doner Shack has announced plans to relocate its headquarters to the United States, a decision driven by what it describes as a challenging business environment … read more

The Soil Association's League Table Exposes UK's Best and Worst Children's Menus

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

A new report from the Soil Association has raised concerns about the quality of children's meals served at some UK restaurant chains. The agricultural charity claims that many of these meals are pr … read more

£338m Loungers Deal Sparks Shareholder Debate

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

A proposed £338 million takeover of Loungers, the café-bar group behind Cosy Club, Lounge, and Brightside, has met resistance from several of its largest shareholders. Fortress Investment Group, th … read more

December Special Offer: Clean & Sparkle with Ceres!

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

The festive season is here, and as we wrap up another incredible year, Ceres is thrilled to bring you a special December offer designed to make your post-Christmas cleanup a breeze. This month, whe … read more

Takeaway Sales Show Resilient Growth Amid Economic Challenges

Posted by Emily on 28th Nov 2024

New research indicates that Britain’s restaurant industry continues to enjoy robust delivery and takeaway sales growth, with a like-for-like increase of 4.8% in October. This marks a slight dip fro … read more

Wheat Market Update: Insights from the November Landscape

Posted by Emma on 28th Nov 2024

The wheat market has witnessed significant developments this month, shaped by geopolitical tensions, weather conditions, and shifting consumer demand. This report explores key factors influencing w … read more

UK’s Top Fish and Chip Shops Compete for Takeaway of the Year

Posted by Emily on 28th Nov 2024

The National Fish & Chip Awards unveiled the ten finalists vying for the prestigious takeaway of the Year title, showcasing the best fish and chip shops across the UK. This announcement marks t … read more

Loungers Acquired by US Firm Fortress in £338 Million Deal

Posted by Emma on 28th Nov 2024

Loungers, the operator behind popular UK dining brands Lounge, Cosy Club, and Brightside, has agreed to a £338 million acquisition by US-based investment firm Fortress. The deal values Loungers' sh … read more

London’s Historic Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets to Close

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2024

After centuries as pillars of London’s food supply, the Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market are set to close following a decision by the City of London Corporation to withdraw its o … read more

Episode 193: Andrew Crook Opens Up on Challenges in the Fish and Chip Industry

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2024

Episode 193 of The Ceres Podcast dives deep into the heart of the UK's fish and chip industry. Stelios sits down with Andrew Crook, President of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), to … read more

Illegal Hiring Scandal: Former Chatteris Restaurant Owner Banned for Seven Years

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2024

A former Cambridgeshire restaurant owner has been banned from holding a company director role for seven years after employing illegal workers, marking a significant enforcement of UK immigration la … read more

Pub Giant Mitchells & Butlers Sees Record Profits Despite Looming Labour Challenges

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2024

Mitchells & Butlers, the pub and restaurant group behind well-known brands such as All Bar One, Harvester, O’Neills, and Miller & Carter Steakhouse, has reported robust financial results fo … read more

Examining KFC’s Reversal on the Better Chicken Commitment: A Blow to Animal Welfare Progress?

Posted by Stelios on 26th Nov 2024

KFC’s decision to abandon its pledge to phase out fast-growing chickens by 2026 has reignited discussions about animal welfare and industry accountability. The company had committed to the Better C … read more

The Hospitality Sector’s Breaking Point: Why Insolvencies Are Rising

Posted by Emily on 26th Nov 2024

The UK’s restaurant industry is teetering on the edge of a financial precipice, with more than one in ten establishments facing imminent closure within the next 12 months. A new analysis from accou … read more

Calorie Counts on Menus: A Law That Missed the Mark?

Posted by Emily on 26th Nov 2024

Mandatory calorie labelling, introduced in April 2022 for businesses with more than 250 employees, aimed to encourage healthier eating choices. However, a recent study published in Nature Human Beh … read more

Towngate Fisheries: The Secret to Bradford's Best Fish & Chips

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2024

Towngate Fisheries in Idle, Bradford, is a small but busy fish and chip takeaway that thrives on its strong customer service. Manager Joanne Newman believes this sets it apart from the four other c … read more

Burnt Chef Project Launches Global Whistleblowing Service for Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2024

The Burnt Chef Project, a social enterprise dedicated to improving mental health in hospitality, has launched a global whistleblowing service aimed at addressing workplace concerns in the indu … read more

How Rafael Chandler Transformed Hillycroft Fisheries into a Local Favourite

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2024

For someone who didn't see fish and chips as a career when he started as a waiter for a local restaurant 22 years ago, it has served Rafael Chandler well. Today, he owns Hillycroft Fisheries in M … read more

The UK’s Top Fish & Chip Restaurants Battle for Glory

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2024

The National Fish & Chip Awards has announced the finalists for its prestigious Restaurant of the Year category. Five fish and chip establishments from across the UK have secured their place in … read more

National Insurance Hikes: The Cost to Jobs and Businesses

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2024

The UK’s recent Autumn Budget has sparked concern across various sectors, with the announcement of increased employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) set to come into effect from April 2025 … read more

Robinsons Fish & Chips: Tradition, Quality and Community at Heart

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2024

For fourth-generation frier Martin Robinson, fish and chips is more than just a business - it's a family legacy that can be traced back to a popular takeaway in Whitby in the 1940s. "My family st … read more

National Insurance Hikes Spark Uncertainty for Pizza Hut Franchise

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2024

The UK's largest Pizza Hut franchisee, Heart With Smart (HWS), is exploring options to address escalating financial pressures triggered by last month's Budget announcements. With a network of aroun … read more

Just Eat Sells Grubhub at a Fraction of Its Purchase Price

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2024

Just Eat Takeaway.com, the Dutch food delivery giant, has announced the sale of its US-based subsidiary Grubhub for an enterprise value of $650 million (£510 million). The figure represents a sharp … read more

Britain’s Best Chips: The 2025 Field to Frier Finalists Revealed

Posted by Emma on 22nd Nov 2024

Ten fish and chip businesses across the UK have been named as finalists in the Field to Frier category of the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards. The category honours those who demonstrate except … read more

Meet the Finalists for Newcomer of the Year 2025

Posted by Emily on 21st Nov 2024

Three fish and chip shops, each less than two years old, have earned their place as finalists in the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025 for the coveted Newcomer of the Year award. Representing th … read more

KFC Champions Youth Voices with New Advisory Board

Posted by Emily on 21st Nov 2024

KFC has taken a significant step in its commitment to youth employment by launching a Youth Advisory Board in partnership with Youth Beyond Borders, a youth-focused organisation. This initiative ai … read more

Episode 192: Weathering the Storm – Tim Barnes and Paul Goodgame on Challenges, Innovation, and People Power in Fish & Chips

Posted by Emma on 20th Nov 2024

The fish and chip industry is no stranger to challenges, but how do leading figures navigate unpredictable weather, staffing pressures, and economic uncertainties? In Episode 192 of The Ceres Podca … read more

Could Business Rates Reform Reshape the High Street?

Posted by Emily on 20th Nov 2024

The UK government has introduced draft legislation to permanently reduce business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties starting in 2026. This unprecedented measure aims to al … read more

Hospitality Industry Stagnates Amid Mounting Challenges

Posted by Emily on 20th Nov 2024

The UK's hospitality sector continues to face challenging conditions, with recent data revealing stagnant sales and warnings of potential financial turbulence ahead. Despite signs of resilience, bu … read more

Episode 191: Tackling the UK Budget, Business Challenges, and More

Posted by Emma on 16th Nov 2024

In Episode 191 of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios and co-host David Nicolaou take listeners on a lively journey through some of the most pressing issues affecting businesses and the economy today. From … read more

Episode 190: Masterclass Interview – From Farm to Fryer with Patrick Clabon and Stuart Mitchell

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2024

In Episode 190 of the Ceres Podcast, hosts Stelios Theocharous and David Miller (of Millers in Haxby) are joined by two industry heavyweights: Patrick Clabon from HG Bliss Farms and Stuart Mitch … read more

Episode 189: UK Hospitality's Kate Nicholls on the Triple Whammy of Taxes, Rates, and Wages

Posted by Emma on 5th Nov 2024

In Episode 189 of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, to explore the profound challenges facing the hospitality indust … read more

Market Report: The 2024 UK Potato Harvest

Posted by Stelios on 5th Nov 2024

This year has tested the resilience of UK growers, who have navigated challenging weather, financial pressures, and logistical hurdles to bring in the 2024 harvest. While pre-arranged contracts hav … read more

Hospitality Jobs Under Pressure as Employment Costs Rise by £2,500 per Worker

Posted by Emma on 3rd Nov 2024

In a recent analysis, UKHospitality has raised concerns over significant increases in the cost of employing full-time staff within the hospitality sector. According to their findings, businesses wi … read more

Crispy Crab Cakes with a Creamy Twist

Posted by Emma on 2nd Nov 2024

Crab cakes often feel like a luxury dish, but with this recipe, you can bring a gourmet taste to any food establishment. We’re using Ceres Fishcake Mix for a creamy interior texture and Ceres Rusti … read more

Episode 188: Untangling the Business Rates Knot with John Webber – The Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 1st Nov 2024

In Episode 188 of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios sits down with John Webber, Director & Head of Rating at Colliers, to dissect the implications of the latest UK budget and its impact on business rat … read more

Episode 187: Triumph, Challenges, and Lessons from Burton Road Chippy

Posted by Emma on 31st Oct 2024

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with Lesley Graves and Des Anastasiou, the dynamic duo behind Burton Road Chippy in Lincoln. Their story is one of resilience, … read more

Episode 186: Unpacking VAT investigations with Les Howard

Posted by Emma on 31st Oct 2024

In Episode 186 of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios welcomes back VAT expert Les Howard for another enlightening and engaging discussion on the complexities of Value Added Tax (VAT). From quirky tax cases … read more

Budget 2025: What It Means for Hospitality

Posted by Emma on 30th Oct 2024

The recent Autumn Statement, delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, outlines Labour’s first Budget in 14 years and introduces sweeping changes for the hospitality sector. Among the key proposals ar … read more

U.K. Budget 2024: What Lies Ahead?

Posted by Emma on 30th Oct 2024

Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced Labour's first Budget in 2010, marking a shift in economic strategy focusing on tax reform, social spending, and support for business sectors. Here's an in-depth … read more

Title: Episode 185: News Review with Jamie Russo – Greggs vs McDonald’s, VAT on Cake, and Government Overreach

Posted by Emma on 29th Oct 2024

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Stelios and guest Jamie Russo dive headfirst into a whirlwind of news stories, offering sharp insights, lively debates, and industry reflect … read more

Meet the 8 Young Finalists Set to Transform the UK Fish Frying Scene

Posted by Emma on 29th Oct 2024

The Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year competition, a highlight of the National Fish & Chip Awards, has announced its final eight semi-finalists, showcasing the UK’s most promising young tale … read more

Honest Burgers Sets Ambitious Growth Target as Sales Climb

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2024

Honest Burgers, the UK-based burger chain with 39 locations nationwide, has announced ambitious plans to significantly expand its business, aiming to quadruple its footprint by 2030. This goal f … read more

Minimum Wage Set for a Rise in 2025

Posted by Stelios on 29th Oct 2024

In a prelude to this year’s Budget, the Chancellor has announced that the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over will rise to £12.21 an hour starting April 2025. The government’s decisio … read more

Pizza Pilgrims Prepares for Next Chapter, Considers Reviving Slice Concept

Posted by Emma on 28th Oct 2024

Pizza Pilgrims, the UK-based pizzeria chain inspired by Neapolitan cuisine, has enlisted advisory support as it evaluates growth strategies, including a potential revival of its New York-style pizz … read more

High Demand Drives Flat Iron to Explore New Investment or Sale Opportunities

Posted by Emma on 28th Oct 2024

Flat Iron, the popular steakhouse chain, is considering strategic options for its future following an impressive year of record sales. In a move that has caught the attention of industry insiders, … read more

Haché Eyes Strategic Sale as Consumer Confidence Wanes in the Dining Sector

Posted by Emma on 28th Oct 2024

Premium burger brand Haché, known for its blend of high-quality burgers with a Parisian-inspired brasserie touch, has appointed Interpath Advisory to assess potential sale options amid an accelerat … read more

Greene King Expands Prison Kitchen Training to Empower Future Workforce

Posted by Emma on 28th Oct 2024

Greene King, a leading UK pub company and brewer, has expanded its efforts to support prison leavers by opening two new kitchen training facilities at HMP Onley and HMP Perth. These kitchens, desig … read more