Blog - Ceres Shop

Hub Box's Struggle, Survival, Rescue

Posted by Emily on 25th Jul 2024

South West-based burger chain Hub Box has been bought out of administration by South West Restaurants, preserving the future of its ten restaurants and securing the jobs of 300 staff members. The a … read more

Popeyes Opens First UK Train Station Restaurant

Posted by Emily on 24th Jul 2024

Popeyes has inaugurated its first restaurant within a UK train station, marking a significant milestone for the Louisiana-based chicken chain. The new establishment, located in London Waterloo, cov … read more

Day Three of the Fish & Chip Study Program in Ålesund

Posted by Stelios on 24th Jul 2024

I'm used to early starts, but fitness and exercise are not my forte. To me, Mount Aksla might as well be Mount Everest, but to everyone else, it's just 418 steps. Walking up Mount Aksla was Tiril, … read more

Tortilla's Impact on Revenue Following Deliveroo Decision

Posted by Emily on 24th Jul 2024

Fast-casual Mexican restaurant group Tortilla has reported a decrease in revenue for the half-year ending 30 June 2024. The company's revenue has fallen by £1.2 million compared to last year's peri … read more

Restaurants Triumph Over Pubs in June Sales Despite Football Fever

Posted by Emily on 24th Jul 2024

According to the latest CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker, restaurant sales outpaced pub sales during June, even though the Euros were expected to boost pub sales. Britain's leading hospitality … read more

Fishmonger Fined £13,000 After Viral Video Exposes Hygiene Breaches

Posted by Emily on 24th Jul 2024

A fishmonger in East London has been fined a total of £13,000 following the release of a viral video showing an employee smashing frozen fish onto the pavement. The footage, recorded behind Moon … read more

Day Two of the Fish & Chip Study Program in Ålesund

Posted by Stelios on 24th Jul 2024

This morning, we were all enthusiastic as we made our way to the port, where the crew of the Osterfjord awaited us. The Østervold family, led by Christian and Marlen Haugland Østervold, welcomed us … read more

Starmer Unveils Skills England to Transform UK Workforce Training

Posted by Emily on 23rd Jul 2024

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced the launch of Skills England, a new initiative aimed at revolutionising the training of UK workers and reducing the nation's dependence on foreign labour. … read more

Wetherspoon's Tim Martin Commends Rachel Reeves

Posted by Emily on 22nd Jul 2024

Tim Martin, the outspoken CEO of the JD Wetherspoon pub chain, has commended the new Labour Chancellor Rachel Reeves, acknowledging her solid economic background. He has simultaneously called for s … read more

Why I Think Pret-A-Manger Was Right to End Free Coffee

Posted by Stelios on 22nd Jul 2024

In a bold move reminiscent of a plot twist in a business thriller, Pret A Manger has decided to end its famous free coffee subscription. As someone who frequents Pret and has observed its evolution … read more

Hospitality Insolvencies Rise 20% in a Year

Posted by Emily on 22nd Jul 2024

Insolvencies within the hospitality sector have risen significantly over the past year, according to the latest government statistics. The data, released on 19 July, shows a 20% increase in insolve … read more

Pret A Manger Revamps Coffee Subscription Model

Posted by Emily on 18th Jul 2024

Pret A Manger is set to discontinue its current five-coffees-a-day Club Pret subscription and replace it with a more traditional discount model. Beginning on 3 September, Club Pret membership will … read more

Brewing Up Changes: Brewhouse & Kitchen's Mixed Progress

Posted by Emily on 17th Jul 2024

Brewhouse & Kitchen, the UK's largest brewpub chain, has reported mixed progress for the fiscal year ending 30 September 2023. Despite some setbacks, the company has shown resilience and adapta … read more

England's Farming Incomes Drop by £1 Billion

Posted by Emily on 17th Jul 2024

According to the latest government statistics, farming incomes in England dropped by over £1 billion last year, a stark revelation of the economic challenges facing the agricultural sector. Th … read more

Decline in Cereal and Oilseed Rape Cultivation Reaches Two-Decade Low

Posted by Emily on 17th Jul 2024

In a significant development, Great Britain has reported the lowest cultivation area for cereals and oilseed rape (OSR) in over two decades, primarily attributed to adverse weather conditions. Acco … read more

Sandwich Sandwich Sets Sights on Global Expansion from London Launch

Posted by Emma on 17th Jul 2024

Sandwich Sandwich, a family-run business from Bristol, has unveiled ambitious expansion plans, positioning itself to compete with established giants such as Pret a Manger and Subway. Founded by Nic … read more

Antic Hospitality Group Enters Administration

Posted by Emma on 17th Jul 2024

A collection of 13 beloved pubs and bars in South and East London, part of the Antic hospitality group, have entered administration. This portfolio includes well-known establishments such as the Ba … read more

A New Chapter for the South West Burger Group Hub Box

Posted by Emma on 17th Jul 2024

In a significant development, the burger chain Hub Box has been successfully bought out of administration. This acquisition, led by South West Restaurants and headed by Hub Box’s original founder, … read more

The King's Speech: What it Means for the Hospitality Industry

Posted by Emma on 17th Jul 2024

The new government has unveiled its priorities for the upcoming year in the inaugural King's Speech, setting a packed legislative agenda that includes significant changes to workers' rights and mea … read more

Wheat Market Update: Impact on the UK Wheat Market

Posted by Emily on 17th Jul 2024

The recent developments in the global wheat market have significant implications for the UK. This report focuses on how these changes, particularly regarding wheat quality, could impact the UK whea … read more

Wales Weighs Ban on Free Drink Refills to Foster Healthier Choices

Posted by Emma on 15th Jul 2024

In a significant move towards promoting healthier lifestyles, the Welsh government is considering a ban on free drink refills at restaurants and cafés. Health Secretary Eluned Morgan has initiated … read more

Tesco Suspends Pig Supplier Amid Disturbing Welfare Violations

Posted by Emily on 10th Jul 2024

Tesco has temporarily suspended one of its pork suppliers, Cross Farm in Holsworthy Beacon, Devon after activists from Animal Equality released footage depicting severe animal welfare violations. T … read more

Coffee Prices Set to Rise for Another Year, Lavazza Warns

Posted by Emily on 10th Jul 2024

UK consumers will likely face rising coffee prices until at least mid-next year, as the coffee industry grapples with significant challenges, according to Lavazza. The Italian coffee company's vice … read more

Azzurri Group Partners with Dave's Hot Chicken

Posted by News on 10th Jul 2024

Azzurri Group has announced its partnership with the renowned US brand Dave's Hot Chicken to open 60 new locations across the UK. The first of these outlets is slated to launch in London early next ye … read more

Record-Breaking Year for Loungers: Revenue, Profit, and Expansion Soar

Posted by Emily on 10th Jul 2024

Loungers has reported a remarkable year of growth and expansion. The company announced a significant increase in group revenue, reaching £353.5 million, marking a 24.7% rise compared to the prev … read more

How IKEA and Costco Mastered Employee Retention

Posted by Emily on 7th Jul 2024

IKEA is known for some eye-catching statistics. In a single year, it distributes 2.5 billion wooden dowels, the little sticks that hold its furniture together, and 50 million Allen keys. Over 25 ye … read more

Opinion - Labour's Victory: What Lies Ahead for the UK?

Posted by Stelios on 5th Jul 2024

The Labour Party has clinched a decisive victory in the UK general election, securing a substantial majority of 209 seats, totalling 410. Keir Starmer is set to become the new Prime Minister, heral … read more

Opinion - Labour's New Era: What it Means for Food, Drink, and Trade

Posted by Stelios on 5th Jul 2024

Well, it's happened. After 14 years of Conservative governance, the UK has a new left-wing government. The Labour victory, confirmed by the BBC in the early hours of July 5th, signifies a seismic p … read more

Keeping Your Company Handbook Up-to-Date: Why It Matters

Posted by Emma on 5th Jul 2024

Updating your company handbook regularly is crucial to ensure that your HR policies and procedures remain relevant and effective. Changes in case law, new legislation, and societal or technological … read more

How Labour's Election Win Could Transform Hospitality

Posted by Emily on 5th Jul 2024

Sir Keir Starmer has become the UK's first Labour Prime Minister since 2010, securing a significant majority with a landslide victory in the general election. With Labour holding a parliamentary ma … read more

FREE Chip Shop Owners Open Day - Join Isle of Ely on the Farm!

Posted by Emma on 3rd Jul 2024

Isle of Ely Produce and Chippy Chat invite chip shop owners and managers to their annual open day on Sunday, September 15th, 2024. This is one of the premier FREE industry events of the year! … read more

Steakhouse Chain Hawksmoor Explores £100m Valuation Sale

Posted by Emily on 3rd Jul 2024

Hawksmoor, the renowned high-end steakhouse chain, is allegedly up for sale. The move could value the business at approximately £100 million. The chain has enlisted the investment bank Stephen … read more

Premium Access: Deliveroo Introduces Exclusive Subscription Service

Posted by Emily on 2nd Jul 2024

Deliveroo has unveiled an exclusive "invite-only" subscription service, Plus Diamond, which allows users to order from high-end restaurants and specialised grocery stores. The new service is priced … read more

Deliveroo Avoids Takeover by American Giant DoorDash

Posted by Emily on 2nd Jul 2024

Deliveroo has recently attracted interest from the American food delivery company DoorDash, which considered acquiring the British firm. However, the potential deal fell through due to a disagreeme … read more

McDonald's Halts McPlant Burger Rollout in the US

Posted by Emily on 2nd Jul 2024

The future of McDonald's plant-based burger, the McPlant, appears bleak in the United States after underwhelming trial results. Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald's US operations, confirmed at the … read more

Itsu Sets Ambitious Expansion Plans in Motion

Posted by Emily on 2nd Jul 2024

Itsu, the Asian-inspired fast food chain founded by Julian Metcalfe, has unveiled its ambitious plans to double its UK portfolio. To achieve this, the company has partnered with Savills, a renowned … read more

Pizza Pilgrims Profits Soar Amidst Strategic Expansion

Posted by Emma on 2nd Jul 2024

Pizza Pilgrims has reported a significant increase in pre-tax profit, doubling its earnings as part of a strategic nationwide expansion. Founded in 2012 by brothers Thom and James Elliott, the grou … read more

Day One of the Fish & Chip Study Program in Ålesund

Posted by Stelios on 1st Jul 2024

When Ceres clinched the Supplier of the Year Award at the NFFF National Fish & Chip Awards, I had no clue that this accolade would soon whisk me away to Norway for a three-day study trip. … read more

UK Farmers Struggle as Wet Winter Leads to Significant Drop in Crop Yields

Posted by Emily on 1st Jul 2024

According to a new analysis, the UK is facing a significant drop in food production, with estimates suggesting a nearly 10% reduction due to one of the wettest winters on record. The Energy and Cli … read more

British Restaurant Delivery Orders Increase in May

Posted by Emma on 29th Jun 2024

Britain's top-managed restaurant groups saw a remarkable surge in delivery sales in May, as reported by CGA by NIQ's latest Hospitality at Home Tracker. This surge represents the highest year-on-ye … read more

Welcome Relief as Foodservice Inflation Dips to 4.6% in May

Posted by Emma on 29th Jun 2024

In a significant development for the food service sector, year-on-year inflation as measured by the CGA Prestige Foodservice Price Index (FPI) fell to 4.6% in May, marking a 28-month low. This figu … read more

The Döner Dispute Between Turkey and Germany

Posted by Emily on 29th Jun 2024

Germany's beloved döner kebab, a staple millions enjoy, is at the centre of an international conflict. The döner kebab, consisting of thin slices of veal served in toasted bread with salad and savo … read more

How to Upgrade Your Potato Peeling and Chipping Process

Posted by Emma on 27th Jun 2024

Are you ready to enhance your potato peeling and chipping efficiency but unsure about using chipping baskets? Our guide will help you save money on water, reduce costs on chip preparation formula, … read more

George’s - where the customer is king

Posted by Emma on 24th Jun 2024

George’s in Bourne, Lincolnshire, is a successful takeaway that turns over an impressive £1million a year with a business model that closes at 8pm and isn’t open on Sundays. However, the journey … read more

Opinion - Election Promises and the Financial Reality

Posted by Stelios on 23rd Jun 2024

As the general election looms, all the major parties make grand tax promises. Labour, the Conservatives, and the Liberal Democrats have plans to woo voters. But let's be honest for a moment: what d … read more

Election Insights for Farming: What Each Party Offers

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

As the UK heads towards the 2024 General Election, each political party has unveiled its manifesto outlining what it plans to do for the farming sector if elected. Here’s a breakdown of the key com … read more

Election Insights for Hospitality: What Each Party Offers

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

As the general election approaches, hospitality professionals must understand how each party's manifesto could impact their industry. Here's a breakdown of what the main political parties are promi … read more

Summary: The Labour Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

The Labour Party's 2024 manifesto is a detailed plan to transform the United Kingdom by addressing the many challenges its citizens face. Restoring Hope and Ending Conservative Chao … read more

Newcastle Implements Takeaway Ban to Combat Obesity

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

Newcastle City Council has taken a significant step in the battle against obesity by banning new takeaway establishments in most areas. This decision, made during a cabinet meeting on Monday, clear … read more

Summary: The Conservatives Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 11th Jun 2024

The Conservative Party's 2024 manifesto outlines a detailed vision for the future of Britain, focusing on economic growth, tax cuts, family support, education, national security, and more. Here's a … read more

Serving Britain: Creating Places Where People Want to Live, Work, and Invest

Posted by Emily on 10th Jun 2024

The UK hospitality sector is a cornerstone of the nation's economic and social fabric, generating £140 billion in economic activity and £54 billion in tax receipts annually. Employing 3.5 million p … read more

Score Big with Your Customers: Promotions for Fish & Chip Shops During the UEFA Euro 2024

Posted by Emily on 10th Jun 2024

Football fever is sweeping the nation, and as a fish and chip shop owner, you have a golden opportunity to score big with your customers! The UEFA Euro 2024 championship is a time of excitement, ca … read more

Summary: The Liberal Democrat Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 10th Jun 2024

The Liberal Democrats have unveiled their manifesto for 2024, aiming to provide a fair deal for all Britons. This manifesto addresses various issues, from the economy and public services to climate … read more

Opinion - What the Next Government Won't Tell Us

Posted by Stelios on 10th Jun 2024

Every election season (and in between), many in the hospitality industry get their hopes up. You dream of lower VAT rates, better margins, and more government support. Yet, this ends up in disappoi … read more

UKHospitality's Toolkit for Political Engagement

Posted by Emma on 6th Jun 2024

UKHospitality has unveiled a comprehensive election toolkit, encouraging hospitality operators to invite parliamentary candidates to visit their venues before the upcoming General Election on 4 … read more

UK Health Authorities Investigate Widespread E.coli Outbreak

Posted by Emma on 6th Jun 2024

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed a significant outbreak of E.coli, with 113 reported cases nationwide since 25 May. The outbreak is believed to be linked to a contaminated food i … read more

Sustainable Scampi: Separating Fact from Fiction

Posted by Stelios on 6th Jun 2024

Recent media reports have raised alarms about the environmental impact of scampi fishing, prompting calls for a detailed investigation. The claims in the complaint have caused concern among co … read more

Ex-Fish and Chip Shop Owner Admits to £19,000 Covid Grant Fraud

Posted by Emma on 4th Jun 2024

A former fish and chip shop owner from North London has been found guilty of fraudulently obtaining Covid business grants worth over £19,000. Huseyin Bozkina, residing in Blanchard Grove, Enfiel … read more

Fakeaways: The New Trend in Cost-Effective Dining

Posted by Emma on 4th Jun 2024

Britons increasingly turn to supermarket-bought "fakeaways" to enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home on a budget. According to sales data from Ocado, a leading online grocery retailer, the popular … read more

Takeaway Spending Falls for the First Time in Four Years: What's Behind the Decline?

Posted by Emma on 4th Jun 2024

Consumers are reducing their expenditure on takeaways and fast food, marking the first decline in this category since May 2020, as revealed in a recent report by Barclays. The report indicates that … read more

Challenging Times Ahead for UK Hotels: Wage Increases and Weather Woes

Posted by Emma on 4th Jun 2024

The UK hotel industry is grappling with a range of challenges as recent increases in the national minimum wage (NMW) and adverse weather conditions exert pressure on profits. According to research … read more

Environmental Damage Linked to Scampi Sourcing: Call for Investigation

Posted by Emily on 3rd Jun 2024

A recent complaint by the charity Open Seas has urged the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to investigate the environmental sustainability of scampi sourcing. The charity claims that sc … read more

Mastering Customer Interaction in Your Fish & Chip Shop

Posted by Emma on 1st Jun 2024

In the fast-paced food takeaway industry, competition is fierce, and customer expectations are higher than ever. One crucial element makes all the difference: how you approach and engage your walk- … read more

Dine-and-Dash Couple Jailed and Fined

Posted by Emma on 31st May 2024

A couple who used their children to evade paying over £1,000 in restaurant bills has been jailed. Bernard McDonagh, 41, and his wife Ann McDonagh, 39, were caught on CCTV dining and dashing at a Sw … read more

Opinion - When TikTok Gets It Wrong: McDonald's Sets the Record Straight

Posted by Stelios on 31st May 2024

In today's fast-paced digital world, misinformation has become an alarming issue, particularly with the rapid circulation of "news" via social media. Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald's USA, r … read more

My Take on the VAT Pledge: Labour and Conservatives Stance

Posted by Stelios on 30th May 2024

As the general election approaches, the political landscape is heating up with pledges and promises from the main parties. One significant promise that caught my attention is the Value Added Tax … read more

#164 - Master Class - Potato Peeling with David Miller & Stelios

Posted by Emma on 27th May 2024

In episode 164 of the Ceres Podcast, "The Potato Peeling Episode," hosts David Miller and Stelios focus on optimising potato preparation for the fish and chip industry. This episode is part of the … read more

Episode 163: Demetri Lawton Discusses the Fish & Chips on the Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emily on 27th May 2024

The host welcomes Demetri Lawton in this episode, marking his first appearance on the Ceres Podcast. The conversation begins with reflecting on their previous interactions and meetings, including a … read more

High Inflation Hits Greene King's Profits Despite Revenue Growth

Posted by Emily on 27th May 2024

Greene King grappled with a challenging year as high inflation and 'global macroeconomic headwinds' in food, labour, and utility costs significantly impacted its profits, reducing them by a stag … read more

Labour vs Conservatives: Key Policies Leading Up to the UK General Election

Posted by Emma on 26th May 2024

On a rainy May afternoon in Whitehall, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak surprised many by announcing a general election for July 4. This decision was influenced by a recent slowdown in inflation to just … read more

M&B Reports Significant Profit Increase as Inflation Eases

Posted by Emma on 24th May 2024

Mitchells & Butlers (M&B), the hospitality giant behind popular brands such as All Bar One, Toby Carvery, and Miller & Carter, has reported a significant profit increase for the past half-year, wit … read more

Deliveroo Drivers Rally Against 'Soul-Destroying' Work

Posted by Emma on 24th May 2024

Deliveroo drivers in London, representing diverse communities, including Brazilian, Bengali, Romanian, and British riders, recently staged a powerful protest during the company's annual general mee … read more

Carl's Jr. Eyes UK Growth, Partners with Boparan Restaurant Group

Posted by Emma on 23rd May 2024

Carl's Jr., a renowned Californian burger brand, is set to expand into the UK market through a strategic partnership with Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG). This new master license agreement grants BR … read more

Hospitality Industry Calls for Support Ahead of Election

Posted by Emily on 23rd May 2024

With the announcement of a general election set for July 4th, key figures in the UK hospitality sector are urging all political parties to prioritise the industry's needs. UKHospitality, the Nation … read more

Hospitality Sector Closure Rate Declines in Early 2024

Posted by Emily on 22nd May 2024

The hospitality sector in Britain has shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. The rate at which venues are closing has significantly decreased in the first quarter of 2024. Data from … read more

UKHospitality Advocates for Interest Rate Reduction

Posted by Emma on 22nd May 2024

UKHospitality has urged for a decrease in interest rates following the latest Office of National Statistics (ONS) data, which indicates a significant drop in inflation to its lowest point in nearly … read more

Foodservice Inflation Trends Toward Stability Amid Broader Economic Optimism

Posted by Emily on 22nd May 2024

The latest figures from the Foodservice Price Index reveal that inflation in the sector is 'returning towards more normal levels,' showcasing a significant year-on-year drop of 2.5%. This data, pre … read more

Opinion - Burger Boom or Bust?

Posted by Stelios on 21st May 2024

The enduring appeal and ever-growing financial influence of burgers in the UK's fast food landscape make for a compelling study of consumer trends and business strategy. Andy Li, CC0, via Wiki … read more

#161 - Master Class with David Miller & Stelios - The Potato Selection Episode

Posted by Emily on 20th May 2024

Join hosts David Miller and Stelios in the inaugural episode of the Ceres Master Class, where they delve deep into the crucial topic of sourcing chipping potatoes for fish and chip shops. With over … read more

Unraveling the Dine-and-Dash Dilemma in UK Restaurants

Posted by Emily on 19th May 2024

The disturbing trend of dine-and-dash is not merely an inconvenience but a burgeoning crisis threatening the viability of the UK's hospitality sector. It begs the question: Does economic hardship d … read more

Gordon Ramsay Group Eyes Global Expansion with Pizza East and Other Brands as Turnover Approaches £100m

Posted by Emily on 18th May 2024

Gordon Ramsay Restaurants is gearing up for significant domestic and international expansion with its Pizza East brand, which was acquired in February 2023. This marks the first time the renowned c … read more

Keep It Simple: The Art of Streamlining Your Business with KISS

Posted by Emily on 18th May 2024

In the bustling business world, simplicity can be your most effective strategy. The "Keep It Simple, Stupid" (KISS) principle champions straightforwardness and clarity in every aspect of operations … read more

Opinion - The Business Strategy Behind McDonald’s Menu Makeover

Posted by Stelios on 18th May 2024

As a supplier to the fish and chip industry and a fervent advocate for both business growth and iconic business models like McDonald's, I have been closely observing the strategic moves of the Gold … read more

Opinion - Why Fewer Menu Items Mean More Customer Satisfaction

Posted by Stelios on 18th May 2024

I have come to appreciate a seemingly counterintuitive truth: less really can be more, especially when it comes to menu options. This realisation is rooted deeply in the psychological phenomena kno … read more

Ceres Podcast Episode 159: A Journey Through Triumph and Tragedy with David Nicolaou

Posted by Emily on 16th May 2024

In this thought-provoking episode of the Ceres Podcast, our host Stelios introduces us to David Nicolaou, the man behind Auckley Friery near Doncaster. David's narrative is a blend of personal and … read more

Pizza Pilgrims Reports Record Growth and Expands to New Locations

Posted by Emma on 16th May 2024

Pizza Pilgrims has experienced substantial growth, with revenue rising to £29 million in the year ending June 25, 2023. This represents a 37% increase from the previous year, with pre-tax profits s … read more

Opinion - A Deep Dive into the Plight of Food Delivery Workers

Posted by Stelios on 16th May 2024

Recent research by the City University of New York (CUNY) paints a distressing picture of the gig economy landscape for food delivery workers in New York City. This study, detailed in the Jour … read more

Soaked Soils and Short Supplies: UK's Food Production Crisis

Posted by Emily on 16th May 2024

This winter's extreme rainfall has poised the UK to face a significant decline in food production. As the country reels from one of the wettest winters on record, an analysis predicts that food sel … read more

Norwegian Seafood Council's Health, Innovation, and Sustainability Trends for 2024

Posted by Emily on 15th May 2024

In 2024, the global seafood industry, guided by insights from the Norwegian Seafood Council, is poised at a transformative juncture, driven by dynamic trends that intertwine health, technology, and … read more

Insights from the Seafood from Norway Inspiration Day

Posted by Stelios on 15th May 2024

When Ceres scooped up the Supplier of the Year Award at the NFFF Fish & Chip Awards in January, I was over the moon—though you might not guess it from my expression in the photos! The real high … read more

Gordon Ramsay's Bold New Chapter

Posted by Emma on 11th May 2024

Gordon Ramsay is boldly moving with the launch of the UK's highest restaurant at 22 Bishopsgate, London. This ambitious endeavour comes when his restaurant empire is experiencing a challenging fina … read more

Wheat Prices Hit Eight-Month High: Conflict and Weather to Blame

Posted by Stelios on 11th May 2024

Wheat prices have surged to an eight-month high, a significant development driven by geopolitical tensions and severe weather conditions. According to Bloomberg data, Chicago SRW wheat futures expe … read more

Lidl UK Implements Third Wage Increase in a Year to Stay Competitive

Posted by Emma on 11th May 2024

Lidl UK, the British arm of the German supermarket group, has announced a significant wage increase for its employees, marking the third raise in the past twelve months. Effective from June, the … read more

China Makes History with First-Ever Approval of Gene-Edited Wheat for Commercial Growth

Posted by Emily on 11th May 2024

China has marked a significant milestone in agricultural biotechnology by approving the first gene-edited wheat variety for commercial growth. This approval is part of Beijing's broader strategy to … read more

How JD Wetherspoon is Winning Despite Economic Challenges

Posted by Emma on 9th May 2024

JD Wetherspoon, is demonstrating remarkable resilience and is poised to exceed City analysts' and shareholders' expectations for annual profits. Despite the ongoing cost of living crisis, the compa … read more

UK's New Rules for Single-Sex Toilets

Posted by Emily on 7th May 2024

In a recent government initiative, new restaurants, bars, and other non-domestic buildings in England will soon be required to install single-sex toilets, addressing an apparent demand for such fac … read more

Ceres Podcast Episode 158: Insights from Fry Magazine's Reece Head

Posted by Emily on 7th May 2024

In this enlightening episode, our host Stelios engages with Reece Head, a renowned authority in the fish and chips industry and a pivotal figure at Fry Magazine & the Fry Top 50 Awards. Reece, … read more

Price Cap Proposal: Germany's Strategy to Tackle Rising Doner Costs

Posted by Emma on 7th May 2024

With the doner kebab, a staple of the Turkish community, now at the heart of a fiery political debate in Germany, the average citizen is feeling the pinch. The doner kebab, once a pocket-friendly m … read more

Heineken Announces £39 Million Investment to Revitalise UK Pubs

Posted by Emma on 6th May 2024

Heineken has committed to investing £39 million into its UK operations, explicitly targeting the refurbishment of numerous pubs within its Star Pubs chain. This significant financial commitment wil … read more

Opinion - Will Cultured Meat Outpace Plant-Based Alternatives?

Posted by Stelios on 5th May 2024

In 2013, venture capitalist Peter Thiel expressed his disappointment with the underwhelming progress of modern technology, stating, "We were promised flying cars, and instead, we got 140 characters … read more