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The Heat is On: A Fish & Chip Shop Owner's Guide to Summer Kitchen Safety

Posted by Emma on 15th May 2025       Reading Time:

Summer is well and truly upon us—and for fish and chip shop owners, that usually means longer days, busier counters, and a welcome boost in trade. Now is the ideal time to review your setup, ref … read more

Keep It Clean, Keep It Safe: Mastering Your Bain-Marie Maintenance

Posted by Emma on 14th May 2025       Reading Time:

In busy fish & chip shops and commercial kitchens, some of the most essential tools often go unnoticed—until something goes wrong. The bain-marie is one such piece of equipment. From fish an … read more

New Arrival: Ceres Heavy Duty Descaler –  Built Different

Posted by Emily on 14th May 2025       Reading Time:

There’s a new powerhouse in the Ceres cleaning range – and it means business. Introducing the Ceres Heavy-Duty Descaler, the latest addition to our best-selling cleaning line-up along … read more

From Farm to Fryer: What Every Chippy Should Know

Posted by Abby Barker on 11th May 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the Fish & Chip industry. In this column, Abby Barker, Frier at Millers Fish & Chips in Haxby, s … read more

Battered, Proud, and Welsh: Why Diversity Fuels Our Fish & Chip Trade

Posted by Zohaib Hussain on 7th May 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Zohaib Hussain, owner of Zero Plus Fish & … read more

Strong Crops, Weak Demand: What’s Next for UK Wheat?

Posted by Emma on 3rd May 2025       Reading Time:

Despite weather worries and shifting trade dynamics, the wheat market continues to trend downward, with the UK following suit. It’s a tale of two harvests—healthy domestic crops versus a w … read more

#215: Fire, Flood, and Fryers – Lorraine Arnold’s Unfiltered Journey

Posted by Emily on 3rd May 2025       Reading Time:

In Episode 215 of The Ceres Podcast, Kelly Barnes sits down with one of the industry’s most vibrant and candid voices—Lorraine Arnold of Pier Point Bar & Restaurant. If you’ … read more

Podquad 214 - Real Talk from Britain’s Chip Shop Insiders

Posted by Emma on 3rd May 2025       Reading Time:

In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast (Episode 214), Stelios Theocharous is joined by the full Podsquad—Mark Petrou, Kelly Barnes, David Miller, and David Nicolaou—for a dee … read more

National Fish and Chip Day 2025: Why It's More Than Just a Poster in the Window

Posted by Lynda Simmons on 2nd May 2025       Reading Time:

Lynda Simmons is the Secretary of NEODA and has worked in the food industry for over 30 years. She’s passionate about upholding standards and proudly founded National Fish and Chip Day. I've be … read more

Episode 213: Barry Dickman on Branding, Grit, and the Heart of Fish and Chips

Posted by Emma on 25th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Some stories grab you from the very first sentence, and Episode 213 of The Ceres Podcast is one of them. Hosted by Mark Petrou, this two-part conversation with Barry Dickman—founder of … read more

#212: Tradition, Grit & Cod – Inside Brent Watson’s Y-Pas Chippy

Posted by Emily on 25th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

There’s something magnetic about a great origin story—especially when it involves coal mines, racing pigeons, and an iconic Yorkshire chip shop that’s become a local institution. In … read more

Unlocking Potential: The Secret to Getting Ahead is Getting Started

Posted by Sarah Heward on 25th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the fryers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Sarah Heward, founder and co-owner of The Real Foo … read more

Rain, Russia, and the Rising Pound: What’s Shaping UK Wheat Markets?

Posted by Emma on 23rd Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Wheat prices in the UK have softened this past week, with May 2025 LIFFE feed wheat futures closing at £170.00 per tonne—down £2.50 on the week and £1.00 since the last market … read more

Episode 211: Leading with Grit – Inside the Multi-Award Winning Bells Fish & Chips

Posted by Emily on 21st Apr 2025       Reading Time:

In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, host Stelios sits down with Graham Kennedy, owner of the multi-award-winning Bells Fish & Chips Group in County Durham. What unfolds is more than a busi … read more

How Cameron’s Chip Shop Thrives on the Isle of Lewis

Posted by Emma on 21st Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Operating a fish and chip takeaway in today’s economy is tough enough, but running one on the island of Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides poses additional challenges. The costs of getting products … read more

How a Part-Time Job Turned into My Dream Career

Posted by Kieran Bulpit on 12th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Kieran Bulpit, Head Fryer of Linfords Fish & C … read more

Ignoring HMRC Letters? The Cost Could Be Devastating

Posted by Les Howard on 12th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

This guest article by Les Howard, a renowned VAT specialist and two-time Ceres Podcast guest, sheds light on the history of taxation—from ancient times to modern VAT. Curious to hear more f … read more

Fish, Chips & Me: Reclaiming a Story of Britain

Posted by Aman Dhesi on 11th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Aman Dhesi, co-owner of The Scrap Box ne … read more

Popeyes Takes Flight: First UK Airport Restaurant Lands at Birmingham

Posted by Emily on 11th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Popeyes, the fast-growing US fried chicken brand known for its bold New Orleans-inspired flavours, is setting its sights on UK travel hubs by announcing its first airport location. Through a stra … read more

Chick’n’Sours Eyes New Markets in Bold Delivery-Only Expansion

Posted by Emma on 11th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

The London-based fried chicken and cocktail concept Chick’n’Sours is poised for a significant delivery expansion after securing strategic support from Deliveroo an … read more

Mackerel: Once a Sustainability Hero, Now Teetering on the Brink

Posted by Emma on 11th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has warned restaurants, supermarkets, and fishmongers across the UK to stop serving Northeast Atlantic mackerel. In the latest Good Fish Guide upda … read more

Smashburger for Breakfast? Honest Smash + Grab Enters the Morning Market

Posted by Emma on 11th Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Honest Burgers has taken its Smashburger concept into new territory with the launch of its first breakfast menu at Smash + Grab, the fast-casual spin-off brand opened in London’s Liverpool … read more

Kirby’s Fish & Chips: How Andy Crombleholme Manages Two Thriving Shops

Posted by Emma on 3rd Apr 2025       Reading Time:

Andy Crombleholme has been in the fish and chip trade since he was 15. Now at 39, he owns and operates two successful shops - Kirby’s of Meanwood and Kirby’s of Horsforth.  He bo … read more

Farmers Protest Against Inheritance Tax Reform

Posted by Emma on 2nd Apr 2025       Reading Time:

A protest by British farmers over proposed inheritance tax changes has led to a dramatic – and symbolic – move: a two-week refusal to load milling wheat, the very grain used to make s … read more

Late with Your VAT? Why That Delay Could Now Cost You More

Posted by Emily on 2nd Apr 2025       Reading Time:

In April 2025, HMRC will increase the financial penalties for paying VAT or Income Tax late – and the changes are set to hit small businesses the hardest. This isn’t just another twea … read more

Episode 210 – Jo Hage & Lynda Simmons: Building the Buzz Around National Fish and Chips Day

Posted by Emily on 28th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

If you’ve ever wondered how a national food day comes to life—or why National Fish and Chip Day continues to grow in impact—then Episode 210 of The Ceres Podcast  … read more

Episode 209: George Morey on preserving 116 Years of Tradition at Knights Fish Restaurant

Posted by Emily on 28th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

In the bustling heart of Glastonbury, nestled among ancient buildings and modern pressures, sits one of the UK’s most storied fish and chip institutions: Knights Fish Restaurant. In Episode 209 … read more

#208: The Real Cost of Automation – McDonald’s AI, Greggs’ Slump & Domino’s Digital Domination

Posted by Emma on 28th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The Ceres Podcast’s latest News Review episode is a goldmine for anyone in the food and hospitality sector. Hosted by Stelios Theocharous and David Nicolaou, Episode 208 is as sharp as … read more

Hospitality Sector Demands Urgent Energy Market Probe

Posted by Emma on 27th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The UK's hospitality industry is calling for a formal investigation into what it describes as a "broken" energy market that continues to burden restaurants, pubs, and hotels with excessive costs and d … read more

A Spring Statement Without Substance: Hospitality’s Growing Discontent with the Chancellor

Posted by Emma on 27th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The hospitality sector has responded with disappointment and mounting concern to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Spring Statement, describing it as a missed opportunity to address the financial burde … read more

Wheat Prices Slide as Global Peace Talks Ease Market Tensions

Posted by Emma on 27th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Wheat markets continue to experience significant downward pressure in the UK and internationally as geopolitical shifts and favourable weather forecasts combine to reshape expectations for 2025. Here& … read more

20+ Winning Ideas to Skyrocket Your Sales on National Fish & Chip Day 2025

Posted by Stelios on 24th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Does the British public really need a reason to enjoy fish & chips? Of course not—but the tenth anniversary of National Fish & Chip Day on 6th June 2025 offers something special for fish … read more

Enough Is Enough: When the Customer Crosses the Line

Posted by Stelios on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

I recently read an article in The Telegraph about chefs fed up with being blackmailed for freebies, threatened with bad reviews, and publicly shamed over nonsense complaints. It sparked a flurry of co … read more

Po-Boy Power: The Sandwich That Fed a Movement and Won Over a Nation

Posted by Emily on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

When most people think of Louisiana, especially New Orleans, their minds conjure jazz, Mardi Gras, and that glorious, overstuffed sandwich known as the po-boy. Crunchy on the outside, soft in the midd … read more

Burger King UK Prepares for Expansion with £150m Refinancing Deal

Posted by Emma on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Burger King UK, the master franchisee of one of Britain’s most recognisable fast food brands, is preparing to enter talks with lenders as it pursues a major refinancing package to support a bold … read more

Wetherspoon Faces £60 Million Tax Blow Despite Climbing Sales

Posted by Emma on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon, the UK’s largest pub group, faces a stark financial challenge in the months ahead despite delivering solid sales growth and ongoing expansion. Chairman Tim Martin has sounded the … read more

Episode 207: Fish, Chips & Business Smarts – Lessons from Sarah Heward

Posted by Emily on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

When it comes to running a successful fish and chip shop, few people have a story as compelling as Sarah Heward’s. In Episode 207 of The Ceres Podcast, host Kelly Barnes sits down with Sara … read more

Getting VAT Wrong? How to Challenge HMRC and Reduce Penalties

Posted by Les Howard on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

This guest article by Les Howard, a renowned VAT specialist and two-time Ceres Podcast guest, sheds light on the history of taxation—from ancient times to modern VAT. Curious to hear more from L … read more

Hospitality Leaders Condemn ‘Flawed’ Extended Producer Responsibility Scheme

Posted by Emma on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Leading hospitality operators have united in opposition to the UK Government’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, arguing that the policy unfairly penalises businesses and will ultim … read more

Hospitality Sector Faces Struggles as Insolvencies Climb in January 2025

Posted by Emma on 21st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The UK hospitality sector faced another setback in January 2025, as the number of insolvencies surged by 21% compared to the previous month. According to the latest figures released on 18 March, the n … read more

American Seafood Chain Captain D’s Eyes UK Expansion with 20-Unit Deal

Posted by Emma on 17th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

US seafood restaurant brand Captain D’s is set to make its UK debut this summer, marking a significant step in its international growth strategy. The fast-casual chain has signed a&nbs … read more

McDonald's Franchises Face Scrutiny Over Workplace Harassment Allegations

Posted by Emma on 15th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued a stark warning to all McDonald's franchise owners across the United Kingdom, urging them to take immediate action to protect employees from … read more

A Timeless Tradition: How to Make Fish & Chip Day 2025 Your Biggest Splash Yet

Posted by Stelios on 14th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

I'll never forget the buzz we felt two years ago on Fish & Chip Day 2023 when we first joined forces with the Chelsea Pensioners. We delivered ingredients, frying expertise, and a good dose of cam … read more

Forget Lower VAT Let’s Fight for Something We Can Win

Posted by David Miller on 14th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

David Miller, co-owner of Millers Fish & Chips in Haxby and co-host of the Ceres Podcast Master Class. His shop won Seafish Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in 2018. Some things in life are inevi … read more

Why Professional Advice is Key to Business Success

Posted by Les Howard on 13th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

This guest article by Les Howard, a renowned VAT specialist and two-time Ceres Podcast guest, sheds light on the history of taxation—from ancient times to modern VAT. Curious to hear more from L … read more

The Ceres Podcast #206: Celebrating Success & Tackling Industry Challenges Head-On

Posted by Emily on 13th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The fish and chip industry constantly evolves, but what does the future hold? In The Ceres Podcast Episode 206, Stelios Theocharous is joined by the all-star panel of industry veterans: … read more

Employment Rights Bill Under Fire: MPs Warn of Rising Costs and Red Tape

Posted by Emma on 13th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

According to concerns of Conservative MPs, the Employment Rights Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, could impose significant financial and regulatory burdens on businesses. Durin … read more

Hospitality Sector Confidence Plunges as Tax Storm Looms

Posted by Emma on 12th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The confidence of businesses in the hospitality sector has plunged to its lowest point in two years as concerns mount over significant cost increases scheduled for April. The industry is bracing … read more

Domino’s Bets on Expansion Despite Sluggish Start to 2025

Posted by Emma on 12th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Domino’s Pizza Group plc, the UK and Ireland arm of the global pizza giant, has reaffirmed its commitment to growth despite facing a mixed start to 2025. The company reported a 2% increase … read more

#205 - Building a Business & Legacy: The Lee Family’s Fish & Chips Journey

Posted by Emily on 12th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

In the latest episode of The Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with the Lee family—Shane, John Henry, and Sonny—to discuss their fish and chip empire, the evolution of th … read more

Will Lower Milling Wheat Prices Hold, or Is a Rebound on the Horizon?

Posted by Emily on 11th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The UK wheat market is navigating a period of uncertainty, with prices slipping across key contracts. Global influences, including US tariffs, improved weather conditions, and shifting currency dynami … read more

France’s Bakers Push Back Against New Packaging Levy

Posted by Emma on 9th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

France’s bakers are up in arms over a new environmental levy that has added yet another financial burden to an industry already grappling with soaring costs. The tax, which applies to the paper … read more

Consumer Spending Shifts: Restaurant Delivery Sales Falter in January

Posted by Emily on 9th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The latest figures from CGA by NIQ’s Hospitality at Home Tracker reveal a decline in restaurant delivery sales across the UK, marking the first year-on-year drop since June 2023. Janua … read more

Bistrot Pierre’s Pre-Pack Rescue: A Lifeline for Some, a Loss for Others

Posted by Emma on 9th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Bistrot Pierre, the well-known French restaurant chain, has been thrown a lifeline after being bought out of pre-pack administration, securing the future of ten locations and preserving 394 jobs. Howe … read more

Women in Fish & Chips: Why the Industry Needs More Female Leaders

Posted by Sarah Heward on 8th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the fryers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Sarah Heward, founder and co-owner of The Real Foo … read more

How Fish and Chip Shops Can Support Fasting Employees During Ramadan

Posted by Zohaib Hussain on 8th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the fish and chip industry. In this column, Zohaib Hussain, owner of Zero Plus Fish & … read more

Abby Barker’s Frying Journey: From Pub Kitchens to Fish & Chips

Posted by Abby Barker on 7th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Welcome to this edition of Trade Talks, where we bring you insights straight from the friers of the Fish & Chip industry. In this column, Abby Barker, Frier at Millers Fish & Chips in Haxby, s … read more

"We're in a Turnaround": Starbucks CEO Calls for Urgent Change

Posted by Emma on 6th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has delivered a stark message to corporate employees: performance must improve, accountability must increase, and in-office presence is critical to the company's future. Add … read more

PizzaExpress Shareholders Set to Invest Millions in Debt Refinancing Move

Posted by Emma on 6th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

PizzaExpress shareholders are preparing to inject tens of millions of pounds into its parent company, Wheel Topco, as part of a critical debt refinancing plan. The move comes as Britain’s casual … read more

Just Eat Takes to the Skies with Drone Delivery Rollout

Posted by Emily on 6th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Just Eat Takeaway.com has taken a significant step towards the future of food delivery, launching its first drone-operated service in partnership with Manna Drone Delivery. The initiative, which debut … read more

McDonald’s AI Revolution: How Technology is Transforming the Golden Arches

Posted by Emily on 6th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

McDonald’s is embarking on a bold technological transformation, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing across its 43,000 restaurants worldwide. This ambitious overhaul aims … read more

UK Workers Win, but at What Cost? The Debate Over New Sick Pay Reforms

Posted by Emma on 6th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

In a landmark policy shift, the UK government has announced that over one million low-paid workers will now be entitled to 80% of their weekly salary as sick pay from the first day of illness. The mov … read more

Episode 204: How Yarm Road Fish & Chips Won Takeaway of the Year 2025

Posted by Emma on 5th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

How do you build a fish and chip shop worthy of a national title? That’s exactly what The Ceres Podcast host Mark Petrou and guest Will Burrell, owner of Yarm Road Fish & Chip … read more

FSA Strengthens Allergen Guidance for Food Businesses

Posted by Emma on 5th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has reinforced its guidance for food businesses, setting a clearer expectation for written allergen information and more assertive communication between staff and custo … read more

Uber Eats Bans Thousands of Couriers in Crackdown on Illegal Workers

Posted by Emma on 5th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

The gig economy faces renewed scrutiny as Uber Eats has removed thousands of couriers from its platform in response to growing concerns over illegal working practices. The crackdown follows mounting p … read more

Sales Slump Sends Greggs Shares to Two-Year Low

Posted by Emma on 4th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Greggs, the UK's largest bakery chain, has seen its share price tumble after reporting a slowdown in sales growth. The FTSE 250 retailer, known for its popular sausage rolls and steak bakes, revealed … read more

Martin Lewis Sparks a Fish & Chips Debate—Are We Missing the Real Issue?

Posted by Stelios on 4th Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Martin Lewis, the financial mastermind behind MoneySavingExpert, recently ran a poll on fish & chip prices across the UK, and, unsurprisingly, it got the British public talking. T … read more

Don't Let VAT Registration Catch You Off Guard

Posted by Les Hammond on 3rd Mar 2025       Reading Time:

This guest article by Les Howard, a renowned VAT specialist and two-time Ceres Podcast guest, sheds light on the history of taxation—from ancient times to modern VAT. Curious to hear more from L … read more

Government to ease back on employment rights reforms

Posted by Emma on 3rd Mar 2025       Reading Time:

In a significant policy reversal, the government is set to retract specific employment rights reforms, most notably the proposed right for workers to "switch off" outside working hours. Originally a c … read more

A Greener Future for Fish and Chips: Finney’s Leads the Way

Posted by Emma on 3rd Mar 2025       Reading Time:

Finney’s, a Welsh fish and chip operator based in Benllech, Anglesey, has emerged as a leader in sustainability following its recent win at the National Fish & Chip Awards. The business was … read more

The Secret Behind McDonald’s McNugget Shapes – And Why It Matters

Posted by Emma on 2nd Mar 2025       Reading Time:

McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets are a fast-food favourite worldwide, loved for their crispy coating and juicy interior. But have you ever noticed that they always come in the same four shapes? Ever … read more

Beyond the Whopper: The Story of America’s Other Burger King

Posted by Emma on 1st Mar 2025       Reading Time:

In the heart of Mattoon, Illinois, a small-town eatery is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit and legal intrigue. This is not your typical fast-food joint; this is the original Burger King, a family … read more

A Growing Divide: Could the EU Ban US Soybean Imports?

Posted by Stelios on 28th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

The European Union is exploring the possibility of restricting imports of food products that do not meet its regulatory standards, a move that could include a ban on US-grown soybeans. The proposed me … read more

UK Harvest Hurdles: Navigating the Challenges of Cereal and Oilseed Production

Posted by Emily on 28th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a year marked by challenging weather and shifting market dynamics, the UK’s cereal and oilseed sectors have faced notable obstacles. The 2024 harvest saw a significant downturn, with wheat pr … read more

Why the Plant-Based Boom is Facing Challenges

Posted by Emma on 28th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

For the past decade, we've been told that the future is plant-based. Investors poured billions into lab-grown meat and ultra-processed vegan alternatives, convinced they were backing the next food rev … read more

Will 2025 Be the Year UK Wheat Bounces Back?

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

UK wheat production is poised for a recovery in 2025, offering a glimmer of hope to an industry battered by a challenging 2024. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has released i … read more

Unlocking the VAT Flat Rate Scheme: Is It Right for Your Business?

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Imagine running a small business and facing the quarterly dread of VAT calculations—hours spent sifting through receipts, tallying up sales, and wrestling with HMRC forms. What if there were an … read more

Bonchon’s Signature Crunch Seeks a UK Home: Franchise Partner Wanted 

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Bonchon, the celebrated Korean fried chicken brand, is actively seeking a franchise partner to introduce its globally renowned concept to the United Kingdom. Established in Busan, South Korea, in 2002 … read more

Pubs and Restaurants Reel as January Spending Slump Bites

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a stark reversal of December’s festive buoyancy, Britain’s pubs, bars, and restaurants faced a sobering start to 2025. Like-for-like sales across these establishments plummeted by 1.3% … read more

Yarm Road Fish and Chips Crowned Best in Britain at National Awards

Posted by Emma on 26th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a dazzling tribute to Britain’s beloved fish and chip trade, Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington, County Durham, has clinched the coveted Takeaway of the Year title at the National Fish &a … read more

Starbucks Overhauls Strategy: Job Cuts, Menu Simplification, and a New Vision for Efficiency

Posted by Emily on 25th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Starbucks, the global coffee giant, is making significant changes to its operations, cutting 1,100 corporate jobs and simplifying its menu to reinvigorate its flagging business, particularly in its ho … read more

Restaurant Giants Demand Action: Protect Delivery Drivers from Rising Abuse

Posted by Emma on 25th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Leading restaurant and retail chains, including Dishoom, Pho, and Pizza Pilgrims, have urged the UK government to extend legal protections to delivery drivers, highlighting a 28% surge in abusive inci … read more

A Brief History of Taxation: From Joseph's Grain to VAT in the UK

Posted by Les Howard on 24th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

This guest article by Les Howard, a renowned VAT specialist and two-time Ceres Podcast guest, sheds light on the history of taxation—from ancient times to modern VAT. Curious to hear more from L … read more

A New Era for Food Delivery: Prosus Acquires Just Eat Takeaway.com in Bold European Move

Posted by Emily on 24th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a landmark transaction poised to reshape the European food delivery landscape, Prosus, a Netherlands-based technology investment group, has agreed to acquire Just Eat Takeaway.com for €4.1 bil … read more

Five Guys Faces £4m Tax Hit: Jobs and High Streets Hang in Balance

Posted by Emma on 23rd Feb 2025       Reading Time:

John Eckbert, chief executive of Five Guys in the UK and Europe, has issued a dire warning: Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Budget will slam his burger chain with a £4 million cost increase, dr … read more

From Suffering to Stunning: The Push for Prawn Welfare in British Supermarkets

Posted by Emma on 22nd Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a significant step forward for animal welfare, Waitrose, one of Britain’s leading supermarkets, has pledged to end the inhumane slaughter of king prawns across its supply chain by the end of … read more

From Boycotts to Burgers: McDonald's Navigates a Turbulent Market

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025       Reading Time:

McDonald's, the world's largest restaurant chain, has defied expectations with a modest yet significant recovery in global sales, buoyed by robust performances in international markets. For the three … read more

From Sandwiches to Spuds: Subway Tests a New Direction in the UK

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Subway has launched a trial of customisable jacket potatoes, branded as "Spudway," in 170 UK stores, beginning on 19 February 2025 and running until 15 April. This move expands the fast-food chain's o … read more

A Levy Too Far? Burnham’s Vision for Manchester Under Fire

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025       Reading Time:

In a bold move that has ignited fierce debate, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has proposed replacing the city’s voluntary visitor charge with a mandatory tourist tax. The announc … read more

#203 - Smoked Salmon, Business Battles, and Brexit: A Deep Dive with Lance Forman

Posted by Emily on 15th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

H. Forman & Son has been synonymous with quality smoked salmon for over a century, preserving a legacy of craftsmanship that has withstood the test of time. In Episode 203 of The Ceres Podcas … read more

How to Talk to Customers About Fish Prices – Free Printable Guide

Posted by Emma on 15th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Fish prices are climbing, and customers are asking questions. Some businesses react by posting bad news online or putting up negative letters or posters, but that’s not the answer. Well-inf … read more

Fast Food Giant Aims for 600 AI-Driven Locations by Year-End

Posted by Emma on 14th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Wendy’s is accelerating its adoption of artificial intelligence in its drive-thru operations, with plans to expand its AI-powered ordering system to as many as 600 locations across the United St … read more

£50,000 Loan Fraud Lands Gillingham Businessman in Extended Bankruptcy

Posted by Emma on 14th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

A former Chinese takeaway owner in Gillingham has been banned from acting as a company director after wrongfully claiming a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan during the Covid pandemic. The 55-year-old Mr … read more

The Pricing Dilemma: How Do We Get It Right?

Posted by Stelios on 14th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Pricing has been creeping back into discussion lately, and it's no surprise—it moves whenever commodity prices shift. In business, it's easy to take our eyes off the details when things feel sta … read more

Southern Comfort in the Capital: Slim Chickens Doubles Down on London

Posted by Emma on 12th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Slim Chickens, the American fast-casual fried chicken chain operated in the UK by Boparan Restaurant Group, is set to make a significant mark in London with two major openings next month. The brand's … read more

Pret A Manger Backtracks on Coffee Subscription Hike – What Changed?

Posted by Emily on 12th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Pret A Manger has reversed its decision to double the  Club Pret coffee subscription cost, opting to maintain the current £5-per-month fee instead of raising it to &poun … read more

Joe & the Juice Fined £95,000 for Serious Hygiene Breaches

Posted by Emma on 10th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

Two central London branches of Joe & the Juice have been fined a total of £95,000 after inspections uncovered serious hygiene violations, including mouse infestations. The café chain' … read more

McDonald's "Healthier Lifestyles" Claims Under Scrutiny in Planning Appeals

Posted by Emma on 7th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

McDonald's has repeatedly overturned local authority attempts in the United Kingdom to prevent it from opening new branches, insisting that it promotes "healthier lifestyles" and offers nutritious men … read more

Repeated Food Hygiene Failures Lead to Court Penalties

Posted by Emma on 6th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

A tandoori restaurant in Harlington, London, has been ordered to pay more than £22,000 in fines after an inspection uncovered a severe cockroach infestation. Heathrow Tandoori Limited and its ma … read more

Episode 202: Bobby Joyce Talks Fish Prices, Supply Challenges & Industry Survival

Posted by Emma on 6th Feb 2025       Reading Time:

The fish and chip industry is no stranger to change, but a few episodes of The Ceres Podcast have captured the challenges and opportunities ahead. On the back of Episode 199 with Gary W … read more