Blog - Page 2 - Ceres Shop

Tragic Death of Schoolgirl After Allergic Reaction to Costa Hot Chocolate

Posted by Emily on 10th Aug 2024

A 13-year-old girl from Barking, East London, tragically died after suffering a severe allergic reaction to a hot chocolate purchased from a Costa Coffee branch. Hannah Jacobs, who had lived with s … read more

Episode 177 - Adrian Tweedale’s Fish & Chip Journey

Posted by Emma on 6th Aug 2024

Adrian Tweedale, owner of the Elite Fish & Chip chain, joined Mark Petrou for an insightful conversation on the Ceres Podcast. Reflecting on his journey in the industry, Adrian shared stories that … read more

Episode 176: Exploring the World of Seed Potatoes with Terry Jones from Meijer Potato

Posted by Emily on 5th Aug 2024

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, hosts Stelios and David Miller dive deep into the fascinating world of seed potatoes with Terry Jones, UK Sales Manager at Meijer Potato. While many in t … read more

Whiteheads switches to Ceres Gluten Free Batter Mix to grow its business

Posted by Emily on 3rd Aug 2024

Catering to dietary requirements is the way forward, says Geoff Whitehead, owner of Whiteheads Fish & Chips in Hornsea, East Yorkshire, but he admits it can be expensive and requires the right setu … read more

Day Three of the Fish & Chip Study Program in Ålesund

Posted by Stelios on 25th 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

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

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 Østerfjord awaited us. The Østervold family, led by Christian and Marlen Haugland Østervold, welcom … 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

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

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

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

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

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

Episode 175: From Sculpture Degrees to Fish Frying Masters

Posted by Emma on 19th Jul 2024

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with James Ritchie and Bonny Layhe, the duo behind Simpsons Fish & Chips, winners of the coveted Fish & Chip Shop of the Year in 201 … 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

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

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

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

Azzurri Group Partners with Dave's Hot Chicken

Posted by Emily 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

Episode 174: A Hot Debate on the Ceres Podsquad

Posted by Emma on 10th Jul 2024

In this engaging episode of the Ceres Podsquad, Stelios is joined by industry experts David Miller, Mark Petrou, David Nicolaou, and Kelly Barnes for an insightful and spirited discussion about the … read more

Episode 173: Pre-Cut Chips Masterclass

Posted by Emma on 10th Jul 2024

In the latest episode of Ceres Podcast Masterclass, Stelios sits down with co-host David Miller to dive deep into the growing trend of pre-prepped chips. These ready-to-use chips, often referred to … 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

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

Point of View - 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

Point of View - 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

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

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

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. Ph … 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

Episode 172: Allen Simpson on VAT Reform, Business Rates, and the Future of Hospitality

Posted by Emma on 27th Jun 2024

In this engaging episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios welcomes Allen Simpson, Deputy CEO of UKHospitality, for a dynamic conversation on the current state of the hospitality sector and its broader … 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

Point of View - 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

Episode 171 - An Interview with Paul Graham of PG Chips

Posted by Emma on 21st Jun 2024

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios and David Miller sit down with Paul Graham, founder of PG Chips, to delve into the family legacy of potatoes, business reinvestment, and the future of … read more

Episode 170: Mark Petrou and Alistair Horabin Talk Challenges, Health, and Fish & Chips

Posted by Emma on 21st Jun 2024

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with Alistair Horabin, a well-known figure in the fish and chip industry, for a candid conversation about business, personal grow … read more