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

Posted by Emma on 31st Oct 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Strategic Growth Drives Punch Pubs’ 44% Profit Surge

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Punch Pubs has reported a significant boost in profits, with a 44% increase in operating profit for the financial year ending 11 August 2024. The UK-based pub operator attributed much of this succe … read more

12p a Pint: The Struggle for Survival Facing UK Pubs

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

As the UK’s hospitality industry braces for potential upheaval, many pubs may face closure without renewed support from the government in the form of business rates relief. Stonegate Group, the cou … read more

National Fish & Chip Awards 2025: Ten UK Restaurants in the Running for Top Honour

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The National Fish & Chip Awards has revealed its selection of ten outstanding fish and chip restaurants across the United Kingdom, shortlisted for the prestigious Restaurant of the Year title. … read more

Rapeseed Oil Market Report: What’s Fuelling the Market Tightness

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The UK rapeseed oil market in 2024 faces significant challenges from domestic factors and shifting global dynamics. With UK rapeseed production impacted by reduced planting areas and variable weath … read more

Smoking Ban in Pub Gardens Under Review as Hospitality Industry Pushes Back

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The UK government is reconsidering plans to ban smoking in pub and restaurant gardens following significant opposition from the hospitality industry. Ministers and public health officials had initi … read more

McDonald’s Faces E. Coli Outbreak in the US, Onions Likely Source

Posted by Emma on 25th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

An E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s restaurants in the United States has led the fast-food giant to temporarily remove quarter pounders and fresh, slivered onions from menus in several states. … read more

House of Lords Proposes Bold Measures to Tackle UK Obesity Epidemic

Posted by Emma on 24th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In response to the growing obesity crisis in the UK, a cross-party House of Lords committee has proposed stricter regulations targeting food and drink companies. The recommendations focus on enforc … read more

Can a Simplified Menu Revive Starbucks’ Sales? CEO Thinks So

Posted by Emma on 23rd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Starbucks’ newly appointed CEO, Brian Niccol, has announced plans to streamline the coffee chain’s menu and pricing structure as part of a broader strategy to address falling sales and recapture cu … read more

Episode 184: The Journey of Austen Dack and the Evolution of Chippy Chat

Posted by Emma on 22nd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In Episode 184 of The Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with Austen Dack, publishing editor of Chippy Chat. Together, they unpack Austen’s fascinating career journey, the evolution … read more

Widespread Product Recalls Spark Concerns Over Peanut Contamination

Posted by Emma on 22nd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

A significant number of spice products, including dips, seasonings, and curry powders, have been recalled following concerns about potential peanut contamination. Over 70 products have been withdra … read more

McDonald's Profits Fall Despite Sales Growth: Inflation Takes a Bite

Posted by Emma on 22nd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

According to the company's latest financial results, McDonald's has reported a sharp decline in operating profit for its UK restaurants, with profits falling from £165 million in 2022 to just £11 m … read more

Turnover Up, Profits Down: The Mixed Financial Picture of the UK’s Top Restaurant Groups

Posted by Emma on 22nd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Profits at the UK’s largest 100 restaurant groups have fallen slightly over the past year despite a notable rise in turnover. New research from UHY Hacker Young reveals a 1% drop in overall profits … read more

170 Hospitality CEOs Demand Permanent Business Rates Relief

Posted by Emma on 21st Oct 2024 Reading Time:

As the Autumn Budget approaches, over 170 leaders from the UK’s hospitality industry are urging the government to implement lasting reforms to business rates, warning that the sector could face a f … read more

The Snowball Tax Case: A Look Back at the 2014 VAT Ruling

Posted by Emma on 20th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In 2014, two iconic Scottish confectionery companies, Lees of Scotland and Tunnock’s, found themselves at the heart of an unexpected legal battle. The question? Whether their beloved Snowballs—fluf … read more

Legal Distinction: Composite vs. Separate Supplies

Posted by Emma on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The distinction between composite supplies and separate supplies under VAT law is at the core of the KFC dip pot VAT case—and many similar cases. Composite Supply: A composite supply occurs whe … read more

HMRC Triumphs in KFC VAT Dispute Over Dip Pots

Posted by Stelios on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In a recent case, the First-Tier Tribunal (FTT) upheld HMRC’s decision that dip pots sold with KFC takeaway meal deals form part of a single, VATable supply of hot food. The ruling followed Queensc … read more

Autumn Budget 2024: Which Tax Rises Could Hit Businesses and Workers?

Posted by Stelios on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

As the Labour government prepares to reveal its Autumn Budget on October 30th, 2024, businesses and individuals are bracing for potential tax changes to close a £22 billion fiscal gap. With infl … read more

How Pro-Rata Works for Pay and Holiday Entitlement

Posted by Emily on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Employers often encounter the term “pro rata,” especially when dealing with part-time or temporary employees. But what does it mean to pay someone on a pro-rata basis? In essence, pro-rata pay invo … read more

Breaks at Work: What Are Your Employees Entitled To?

Posted by Emily on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Every business owner has an obligation to provide employees with certain rights regarding breaks. While the law doesn't require that breaks be paid, it's essential to understand what break entitlem … read more

Food Delivery Giants Face Off as Customer Loyalty Wavers

Posted by Emma on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The food delivery market faces significant shifts as competition rises and consumer behaviour evolves. Deliveroo and Just Eat, two of the UK’s leading takeaway platforms, have released their third- … read more

Corporation Tax in the UK: A Comprehensive Overview

Posted by Emily on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Corporation tax is charged on the profits of companies and other organisations operating in the UK. It’s paid annually based on a company’s taxable income, which includes earnings from trade, inves … read more

What Costa, Starbucks, and Peabody's Reveal About the Future of Coffee

Posted by Emma on 19th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

This week's headlines offer a telling glimpse into the state of the coffee industry, with three major players—Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Peabody's Coffee—facing unique challenges and opportunitie … read more

Episode 183: Peter Farrell’s Journey Through Triumph and Tragedy

Posted by Emma on 18th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In Episode 183 of The Ceres Podcast, host Stelios sits down with Peter Farrell, a hospitality leader with a remarkable story of resilience and reinvention. From working in Michelin-starred kit … read more

Hospitality Industry Faces Potential £914 Million Business Rates Hike in April

Posted by Emma on 16th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The hospitality sector in the UK is facing a significant increase in business rates, with a potential bill of £914 million by April if current policies remain unchanged. UKHospitality, a leading in … read more

Whitbread Streamlines Restaurant Portfolio in £56m Sale

Posted by Emma on 16th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Whitbread, the owner of Premier Inn, has sold 51 of its branded restaurants and bars for £56 million. The decision forms part of a broader strategy to shift focus from its restaurant operations and … read more

Experts Suggest Adding VAT to Cake to Plug Budget Gap

Posted by Emily on 15th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

As the UK government grapples with a looming £22 billion deficit ahead of the next Budget, speculation about where the Chancellor will find new revenue streams is rife. While potential tax hik … read more

The 40 Best Fish and Chip Shops in the Running for Takeaway of the Year Announced

Posted by Emma on 15th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Forty of the United Kingdom’s finest fish and chip shops have been shortlisted for the coveted Takeaway of the Year award as part of the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. Organised by the Natio … read more

Episode 182 - Mark Petrou talks to Stuart Fusco about the Fusco Family Legacy

Posted by Emma on 14th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Mark Petrou and Stuart Fusco come together for a fascinating discussion in this episode of the Ceres Podcast, giving listeners an insight into their personal and professional journeys within t … read more

Will Labour's Tax Proposals Stifle Business Growth?

Posted by Emily on 14th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Labour's recent hint at increasing employer National Insurance (NI) contributions has sparked significant concern from business leaders, with many warning of its potential impact on jobs and invest … read more

Navigating the New Sexual Harassment Law: What Employers Need to Know

Posted by Emily on 13th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Recent headlines about sexual harassment have put a spotlight on workplace culture, reminding employers across sectors of the importance of proactive policies. The introduction of the Worker Protec … read more

UK Wheat Harvest Suffers Major Blow Amid Wettest Season on Record

Posted by Emma on 13th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The UK has experienced its second-worst wheat harvest, driven by relentless wet weather over the past year. According to new data from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) … read more

Can Radical Candor Really Make You a Better Boss?

Posted by Stelios on 11th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Suppose you’re in any kind of leadership role, whether managing a small team or overseeing an entire organisation. In that case, you’ve likely grappled with the delicate art of giving and receiving … read more

TGI Fridays to Pay Workers Following Redundancy Dispute

Posted by Emma on 11th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

TGI Fridays has agreed to pay employees outstanding wages and benefits after initially refusing to do so. This decision comes after over 1,000 staff members lost their jobs when 35 TGI Fridays rest … read more

Tim Martin Opposes New Drink Size Regulations for Pubs

Posted by Emma on 11th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon Chairman Tim Martin has openly criticised recent proposals to introduce two-thirds pint measures in British pubs, labelling the idea as “slightly daft.” The suggestion, put forward b … read more

Labour’s New Employment Bill: Are We Really Ready?

Posted by Emma on 10th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

As a business owner, I always welcome changes that promise to improve the workplace, but the Labour government’s approach to the new Employment Bill concerns me. While some may see it as a step for … read more

Burnt Chef Project Doubles Mental Health Training in Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emma on 10th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The Burnt Chef Project, a leading mental health charity dedicated to the hospitality sector, has announced significant growth in its outreach efforts, as more than 24,000 e-learning modules were co … read more

Loungers Nears 300 Locations as It Outperforms UK Hospitality Market

Posted by Emma on 10th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Loungers, the all-day café and restaurant group, has reported continued growth, outperforming the wider UK hospitality market. In a trading update for the 24 weeks ending 6 October 2024, the compan … read more

Employment Reforms Raise Concerns in Business Sector Amid Major Worker Rights Overhaul

Posted by Emily on 10th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move aimed at transforming the UK’s labour market, the government has introduced the Employment Rights Bill, touted as the most sweeping overhaul of employment law in a generation. … read more

McDonald's Takes Legal Action Against Big Four Meat Packers Over Alleged Price Fixing

Posted by Emma on 9th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

McDonald's has filed a lawsuit against four of the largest meat processors in the United States, accusing them of conspiring to manipulate beef prices. The lawsuit targets Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill … read more

When Will the Government Stop Treating Us Like Children?

Posted by Stelios on 9th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Every day, we hear about another well-intentioned government policy to improve our health or guide us towards a better lifestyle. On the surface, these initiatives seem harmless, even helpful. But … read more

Wheat Market Update: Global Uncertainty Fuels Price Increases

Posted by Emma on 8th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

The wheat market has seen a notable upward trend in recent weeks, with geopolitical tensions and regional conditions significantly influencing prices. Global supply disruptions, driven by escalatin … read more

Popeyes UK Expands Footprint as Revenues Climb to £58 Million

Posted by Emma on 8th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Popeyes UK has reported significant revenue growth for the year ending 31 December 2023, positioning the business for continued expansion. Revenues reached £58.1 million, a sharp increase from £15 … read more

Food Hygiene Ratings Scandal: Businesses Exposed for Misleading Customers

Posted by Emma on 8th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

An undercover BBC investigation has revealed that food establishments across east London, including a Sainsbury's store, have been displaying inaccurate food hygiene ratings, misleading customers a … read more

UK TGI Fridays Saved by New Investors, Over 1,000 Jobs Lost

Posted by Emma on 8th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move for the UK’s hospitality sector, over 2,000 jobs have been saved following the sale of 51 TGI Fridays restaurants to Breal Capital and Calveton, the investors behind D&D L … read more

Wendy’s Achieves Nearly 50% Turnover Growth as UK Expansion Continues

Posted by Emma on 8th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Wendy’s, the American fast-food brand known for its square burgers, experienced significant growth in the UK market in 2023. The company reported a remarkable increase in turnover, rising by nearly … read more

Redcloak Fish Bar thrives with expert support and comprehensive product range

Posted by Emma on 7th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Utilising our comprehensive product range while also tapping into our industry expertise is resulting in business growth and improved customer satisfaction at Redcloak Fish Bar in the pre … read more

Burger & Lobster Sets Sights on New UK Openings After Successful Year

Posted by Emma on 4th Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Burger & Lobster is actively exploring opportunities to expand its presence across the UK in London and beyond. The restaurant group, known for its distinctive menu and global footprint, hopes … read more

A Day with Fred: My Journey to Chez Fred

Posted by Mark Petrou on 3rd Oct 2024 Reading Time:

When you get the chance to spend a day with the Boss and the opportunity to visit Chez Fred – it’s too good an offer to refuse…Sadly due to scheduling issues and various commitments on all sid … read more

12 Finalists Announced for the 2025 Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Competition

Posted by Emma on 1st Oct 2024 Reading Time:

Twelve young professionals from across the UK have been shortlisted for the prestigious Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Award, part of the highly regarded National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. … read more

Peanut and Mustard Contamination - Ceres Update

Posted by Stelios on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Recent news of mustard and peanut contamination has raised understandable concerns among consumers with allergies. In light of this, Ceres wants to assure customers that the safety of our products … read more

Rising Stars in Fish and Chips: Meet the Newcomer Finalists of 2025

Posted by Emma on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Five fish and chip shops, established in January 2023, have been selected for the coveted “Newcomer of the Year” award at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. These emerging businesses, located ac … read more

Calveton and Breal Capital in Advanced Talks to Acquire TGI Fridays UK Franchise

Posted by Emma on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Calveton and Breal Capital, the current owners of D&D London, are reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire the UK operations of TGI Fridays. This development follows the recent appointmen … read more

Mitchells & Butlers Outperforms Market as Inflation Eases

Posted by Emma on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Mitchells & Butlers, the operator of well-known brands such as Harvester, Toby Carvery, and All Bar One, has reported a 5.2% increase in like-for-like sales over the past year. The company attr … read more

Chick-fil-A Reveals UK Comeback with £74m Investment with Five New Restaurants

Posted by Emma on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Chick-fil-A, the American fast-food chain known for its signature chicken sandwiches, is set to make a notable return to the UK market. The company has confirmed opening its first permanent UK loca … read more

Punch Pubs Expands Portfolio with Acquisition of 14 New Sites

Posted by Emma on 26th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Punch Pubs & Co has expanded its portfolio by acquiring 14 new pubs from the real estate investment company Aprirose. This recent purchase adds to the company's extensive collection of over 1,3 … read more

Access Group Strengthens Hospitality Division with Acquisition of QikServe

Posted by Emily on 25th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move to enhance its presence in the hospitality sector, the Access Group, a leading provider of business management software, has acquired QikServe, a digital commerce platform spe … read more

Black Sea Tensions and Poor Harvests Drive Wheat Prices Up

Posted by Emma on 19th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Last week, wheat markets took an upward turn as global events and local harvest challenges played a pivotal role in shifting trends. From geopolitical tensions in the Black Sea region to disappoint … read more

Bars See Decline as Pubs and Restaurants Show Resilience in August

Posted by Emma on 19th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Recent data from the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker reveals that the UK's hospitality sector experienced a modest 1.3% year-on-year sales growth in August 2024. The tracker, which compiles da … read more

TGI Fridays UK in Crisis as Hostmore Files for Administration

Posted by Emma on 18th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Hostmore, the UK operator of the TGI Fridays franchise, has officially entered administration following its failure to secure a lasting financial solution. The hospitality company, which manages 87 … read more

What Counts as Junk Food in the Upcoming UK Advert Ban

Posted by Emma on 18th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

From October 2025, the UK will take a significant step toward addressing childhood obesity by banning online adverts for junk food. This new regulation will also apply to TV advertisements shown be … read more

Pret A Manger is Broadening Its Horizons

Posted by Emily on 18th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Pret A Manger has demonstrated a robust commitment to expanding its international footprint, with sales surpassing £1 billion in the last year. This marks a significant achievement for the sandwich … read more

Rude Restaurant Chain Karen's Diner Faces Closure as Parent Company Liquidates

Posted by Emily on 18th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The parent company behind the infamous restaurant chain Karen's Diner, known for its deliberately rude service, has entered liquidation just two years after its UK launch. Viral Ventures UK Ltd, th … read more

Reflections from the Isle of Ely Open Day

Posted by Stelios on 16th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

We kicked off the day bright and early at the home of our good friend and fellow podcaster, Mark Petrou. A bacon sandwich at his place is always a winner, and we were grateful to Mark and Clare for … read more

Hospitality Sector Braces for Financial Impact as Business Rates Relief Nears End

Posted by Emily on 16th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

UKHospitality, a prominent trade body representing the UK's hospitality industry, has raised serious concerns over the impending financial burden businesses could face without further government su … read more

Sourdough Starter Recipe

Posted by Nick on 16th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Kickstart your sourdough journey with just flour and water – it's easier than you think! Ingredients:To StartTo Feed200g Water200g Water200g Wright's Sonata Pizza Flour200g Wright's Sonata Piz … read more

Wright's Sonata Pizza Flour – Your Perfect Partner for Pizza!

Posted by Nick on 16th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

With the launch of Wright's Sonata Pizza Flour, we're here to give you a helping hand in the kitchen! Whether you're perfecting your pizza or trying something new, feel free to tweak these rec … read more

UK to Ban Junk Food Ads Before 9 pm by 2025

Posted by Emily on 13th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The UK government has confirmed plans to ban junk food advertisements from airing on television before the 9 pm watershed, with the changes set to take effect in October 2025. This move is part of … read more

Hospitality Sector Sees Job Vacancies Dip Post-Pandemic

Posted by Emily on 13th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The hospitality sector in the UK has reached a notable milestone, with job vacancies dropping below 100,000 for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to recent data rel … read more

The New Tipping Act: What You Need to Know

Posted by Emily on 13th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

A significant change is horizon for workers in the UK’s hospitality and service industries. The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, set to come into force on 1 October 2024, aims to bring mor … read more

Admiral Taverns Expands with Acquisition of 18 Marston's Pubs

Posted by Emma on 10th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move within the UK pub industry, Admiral Taverns has announced its acquisition of 18 freehold pubs from Marston's, further bolstering its growing portfolio. The newly acquired pubs … read more

Scottish Salmon Supplier Faces Scrutiny Over Welfare Violations

Posted by Emma on 9th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

A Scottish salmon farm, once a key supplier to Marks & Spencer (M&S), has admitted to "unacceptable lapses" in animal welfare practices. The revelations came after drone footage surfaced sh … read more

Workers on Minimum Wage to Receive Significant Pay Rise

Posted by Emma on 9th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The government is set to introduce a substantial increase to the minimum wage next year, with low-paid workers across the UK expected to benefit from a 6% rise. This proposed change, which would br … read more

Smashburger Returns to UK Expansion with Cambridge Opening

Posted by Emma on 9th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

American fast-food chain Smashburger has resumed its expansion in the United Kingdom, marking its first new opening in five years. The brand has taken over the former Chosen Bun site on Hills Road, … read more

Hostmore's Acquisition Plans for TGI Fridays Derailed by Legal Issues

Posted by Emma on 9th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Hostmore has withdrawn from its planned acquisition of the American-themed dining chain TGI Fridays. The decision comes after legal complications emerged, which impacted the deal's viability. … read more

Highway Use Challenges Continue to Hinder the Hospitality Industry

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The hospitality industry in England has long faced well-documented challenges such as staffing shortages, rising business rates, and increasing operational costs. However, one issue that has receiv … read more

A Tasty Tradition: Making Gluten-Free Fish and Chips

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

If you're considering offering gluten-free fish and chips, this guide will help you make informed decisions. We'll cover everything you need to know, from essential equipment to practical tips. … read more

Warwick Students Union Vegan Vision Faces Setback Due to Financial Realities

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The Warwick Students Union (SU) has announced its decision to abandon a previously approved plan to transition to a fully plant-based catering service by 2027, citing financial challenges. This rev … read more

How to Dispose of Frying Oil the Right Way

Posted by Emma on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Frying oil is a staple in every fish and chip shop; However, once it's served its purpose, the question arises: what do you do with used frying oil? Improper frying oil disposal, such as pouring it … read more

Episode 181: Unpacking VAT with Stelios & Les Howard

Posted by Emma on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Stelios and Les Howard from VAT Advice dive deep into the complexities of VAT (Value Added Tax) and how it affects various industries, mainly focusing on the food sector, small businesses, and char … read more

Richard Caring Nears £1 Billion Sale of Ivy Restaurant Collection

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Richard Caring is reportedly on the verge of selling a significant portion, if not all, of his controlling stake in The Ivy Collection for an estimated £1 billion. The prospective buyer, Si Adviser … read more

Drought Poses Significant Challenges for Ukraine's Winter Grain Sowing

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Ukrainian farmers have commenced the sowing of winter grain crops for the 2025 harvest, but weather forecasters have raised concerns about critically low moisture levels across much of the country' … read more

Small Businesses Fear Financial Strain from Labour's Sick Pay Plans

Posted by Emma on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Small businesses across the UK are expressing growing concerns over the potential financial consequences of proposed changes to statutory sick pay (SSP) under Labour's employment reform plans. The … read more

Chelsea Pensioners enjoy National Fish & Chip Day on us!

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Following its tremendous success last year, we were thrilled to be invited back to the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, home of the Chelsea Pensioners, on Friday (6th September) to celebrate Natio … read more

Glass Tax Could Shatter Traditional British Businesses, Warns Fentimans

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Fentimans has voiced serious concerns that a proposed glass tax could force the company to close its doors after more than a century of business. The tax, set to be part of the Department for Envir … read more

Wetherspoons Slashes Prices in VAT Protest: A Call for Tax Equality for Hospitality

Posted by Emily on 7th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon, one of the UK's largest pub chains, is set to reduce prices across its venues next week in a bold move to draw attention to the inequalities in the VAT system. The price reduction, … read more

Episode 180 - The Winning Recipe with Krispies' Tim & Kelly Barnes

Posted by Emily on 6th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Mark Petrou sits down with Tim and Kelly Barnes, owners of Krispies in Exmouth, to discuss their incredible journey from a holiday romance to running an award- … read more

Wagamama's Next Big Move: Plans to Open 60 New UK Locations

Posted by Emily on 5th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

The Restaurant Group (TRG) has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly increase the number of Wagamama restaurants across the UK, setting a goal of reaching 200 to 220 locations in the coming yea … read more

Empowering Future Chefs: Zest Quest Asia Launches Grant Scheme for 2025

Posted by Emma on 5th Sep 2024 Reading Time:

Zest Quest Asia, a renowned cooking competition focused on Asian cuisine, has introduced a new grant scheme to support college teams participating in the 2025 contest. Founded by acclaimed chefs Cy … read more