Blog - Page 5 - Ceres Shop

Fakeaways: The New Trend in Cost-Effective Dining

Posted by Emma on 4th Jun 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Point of View - When TikTok Gets It Wrong: McDonald's Sets the Record Straight

Posted by Stelios on 31st May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Dine-and-Dash Couple Jailed and Fined

Posted by Emma on 31st May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Episode 166 - Chipping Masterclass

Posted by Emma on 30th May 2024 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios and co-host David Miller take a deep dive into a subject near and dear to every fish and chip shop owner—chipping. If you think making great chip … read more

My Take on the VAT Pledge: Labour and Conservatives Stance

Posted by Stelios on 30th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Episode 165 - Andy Thrasyvoulou’s Journey in Fish & Chips

Posted by Emma on 29th May 2024 Reading Time:

In this episode, Mark Petrou interviews Andy Thrasyvoulou, a fish and chip industry legend and the 2002 Fish and Chip Shop of the Year winner. Andy shares his journey, starting from his family’s im … read more

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

Posted by Emma on 28th May 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Point of View - Burger Boom or Bust?

Posted by Stelios on 21st May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Episode 162: Navigating Mental Health and Industry Trends on The Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 21st May 2024 Reading Time:

In Episode 162 of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios is joined by co-hosts David Miller and David Nicolaou for a lively discussion spanning mental health, industry challenges, and sustainable business prac … read more

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

Posted by Emily on 20th May 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Point of View - Why Fewer Menu Items Mean More Customer Satisfaction

Posted by Stelios on 18th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Point of View - The Business Strategy Behind McDonald’s Menu Makeover

Posted by Stelios on 18th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

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

Posted by Emily on 18th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

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

Posted by Emily on 16th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Point of View - A Deep Dive into the Plight of Food Delivery Workers

Posted by Stelios on 16th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Pizza Pilgrims Reports Record Growth and Expands to New Locations

Posted by Emma on 16th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

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

Posted by Emily on 16th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Episode 160: Mark Petrou & Giovanni Fionda on Fish, Chips, and Innovation

Posted by Emma on 16th May 2024 Reading Time:

In a dynamic episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Mark Petrou sits down with Giovanni Fionda, winner of the Seafish Fish & Chip Shop of the Year 2010. Giovanni's journey from humble beginnings in … read more

Insights from the Seafood from Norway Inspiration Day

Posted by Stelios on 15th May 2024 Reading Time:

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 highligh … read more

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

Posted by Emily on 15th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Gordon Ramsay's Bold New Chapter

Posted by Emma on 11th May 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Episode 158: Insights from Fry Magazine's Reece Head

Posted by Emily on 7th May 2024 Reading Time:

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, with … read more

UK's New Rules for Single-Sex Toilets

Posted by Emily on 7th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

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

Posted by Emma on 7th May 2024 Reading Time:

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 Reading Time:

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

Episode 157: Mark Petrou in conversation with Gordon Hillan

Posted by Emma on 6th May 2024 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Mark Petrou sits down with Gordon Hillan, the celebrated owner of multiple award-winning fish and chip shops, including the prestigious Seafish Fish & Ch … read more

Yum Brands' Quarterly Sales Decline Surprises Market

Posted by Emily on 5th May 2024 Reading Time:

Yum Brands, the parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut, demonstrated its resilience in the face of a surprising decline in global same-store sales for the quarter. This dip, attributed to fluctuating … read more

From Fractions to Flops: The A&W Third-Pound Burger Story

Posted by Emma on 5th May 2024 Reading Time:

One food story that stands out in the history of fast food is A&W Restaurants' attempt to revolutionise their burger offering with their third-pound offering. This story, marked by mathematical cal … read more

Point of View - Will Cultured Meat Outpace Plant-Based Alternatives?

Posted by Stelios on 5th May 2024 Reading Time:

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

Episode 156 - Read The News with David Nicolaou

Posted by Emma on 3rd May 2024 Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios discusses the hospitality news with David Nicolaou from Auckley Friary. They discuss the following topics: Greggs Successfully Overcomes Tech … read more

Episode 154 - From University to Young Fish Fryer Winner: Lauren Kellaway's Journey

Posted by Emily on 3rd May 2024 Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Kelly Barnes kicks off her first stint as host by welcoming Lauren Kellaway from Kellaways Fish & Chips in Truro. The conversation starts with Lauren's academi … read more

Episode 153 - A Sit-Down with Mark Polley from John Dorys Group

Posted by Emily on 3rd May 2024 Reading Time:

Our recent podcast with Mark Polley, co-owner of the John Dorys Group, shared his insights into the thriving fish and chips industry. Operating seven successful outlets in Belfast, Marks's journey … read more

Wendy's to Open 400 Restaurants in the UK

Posted by Emma on 3rd May 2024 Reading Time:

Wendy's, the well-known US burger chain recognised for its distinctive square burgers, is setting ambitious goals for growth in the UK, with plans to establish up to 400 restaurants. This initiativ … read more

Concerns Arise as Convicted Deliveroo Rider Found Still Making Deliveries

Posted by Emily on 3rd May 2024 Reading Time:

Alarm has been raised within the community and beyond as Jenniffer Rocha, a 35-year-old Deliveroo rider from Aldershot, Hampshire, was found continuing her delivery work despite a recent grievous b … read more

Point of View - Britain's Welfare Dilemma

Posted by Stelios on 2nd May 2024 Reading Time:

In a recent speech, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak laid out a "moral mission" to overhaul the U.K.'s welfare system. He cautioned against the excessive "medicalisation" of everyday life challenges and … read more

McDonald's 2024 Q1 Review: Bigger Burgers and Market Challenges Define a Mixed Quarter

Posted by Emily on 2nd May 2024 Reading Time:

McDonald's recent earnings release for the first quarter of 2024 highlighted several key financial and operational challenges alongside innovative strategies to drive future growth. The company rep … read more

KFC Malaysia Temporarily Closes Outlets Amid Economic Strain

Posted by Emily on 2nd May 2024 Reading Time:

KFC Malaysia has temporarily closed numerous outlets nationwide due to challenging economic circumstances. This decision follows reports from local media suggesting the closures were in response to … read more

Mowgli Street Food Reports Financial Loss Despite Rising Sales

Posted by Emma on 2nd May 2024 Reading Time:

Nisha Katona, the renowned TV chef and entrepreneur, has witnessed her restaurant chain, Mowgli Street Food, dip into financial losses this year. Despite a proactive decision to maintain consumer-f … read more

Subway Completes $9.6 Billion Sale to Roark Capital

Posted by Emily on 2nd May 2024 Reading Time:

Subway, the world's leading sandwich franchise, has finalised its $9.6 billion (£7.7 billion) sale to Roark Capital, a prominent U.S. private equity firm. Roark Capital, recognised for investing … read more

Episode 152: Meet the Pod Squad - A New Chapter for the Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 1st May 2024 Reading Time:

The Ceres Podcast is back with a bang, and Episode 152 is a milestone worth tuning into. Not only does it mark a new chapter in the podcast’s journey, but it also introduces an exciting line-up of … read more

Episode 155: How Miller’s Turned Passion into a National Title

Posted by Emma on 1st May 2024 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, Mark Petrou sits down with David Miller, winner of the prestigious Fish & Chip Shop of the Year award. Together, they delve into the remarkable stor … read more

Point of View - The VAT Threshold Dilemma

Posted by Stelios on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

As someone deeply interested in the intersection of small business development and tax policy, I've been following a concerning trend among small British enterprises. An increasing number of these … read more

Point of View - Understanding California's $20 Fast Food Minimum Wage

Posted by Stelios on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

As an observer in the UK looking across the Atlantic at California's $20 (£16) per hour fast-food minimum wage law, you can't help but wonder if this will come to the UK as the tug-of-war between r … read more

Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat Enhance Checks Against Illegal Employment

Posted by Emily on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

According to government announcements, Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat are implementing stricter security measures in their apps to address illegal working practices. As delivery riders are self … read more

Whitbread Announces Job Cuts as Part of Expansion and Restructuring Strategy

Posted by Emma on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Whitbread, the parent company of Premier Inn, has announced plans to cut 1,500 jobs, approximately 4% of its total UK workforce, amidst its ongoing growth initiatives. The job reductions are linked … read more

Punch Pubs & Co Expands Portfolio with Acquisition of 24 Pubs

Posted by Emma on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Punch Pubs & Co has acquired 24 pubs from the Milton Three pub group, including the establishments from the Wear Inns portfolio that entered administration last year. Initially put on the marke … read more

Celebrating the Unsung Heroes: Independent Hospitality Week Kicks Off This May!

Posted by Emma on 30th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) is launching Independent Hospitality Week to highlight the contributions of independent hospitality businesses. Scheduled to run from May 6th to May … read more

UK's Deposit Return Scheme Postponed until 2027

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The UK hospitality industry has responded positively to the government's significant decision to postpone the implementation of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for drinks containers to October 2027 … read more

The Ceres Podcast: New Horizons, Fresh Voices!

Posted by Stelios on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

We're thrilled to announce a significant expansion of the Ceres Podcast family, marking a new era of bringing you new voices and different opinions. Stelios, our sole host for seven seasons, has pa … read more

Plastic Wet Wipes Ban: UK's New Legislation Targets Pollution

Posted by Emily on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The UK government is poised to enact legislation banning the sale of wet wipes containing plastic, a significant step to curb pollution in waterways and ecosystems. This new law, expected to be int … read more

Chorleywood: The Bread That Changed Britain – For Better or Worse?

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Over the last fifty years, a British innovation has made its way around the globe - from Australia to South America and even the supermarket shelves of France. Known as the Chorleywood Bread Proces … read more

UK's Relentless Rain Affects Growers' Contracts

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Growers in the UK face unprecedented challenges due to relentless rainfall, with lawyers cautioning them to stay informed about contractual obligations amidst the weather uncertainties.According to … read more

Point of View - Why Pret's Coffee Subscription Lost Its Brew

Posted by Stelios on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Pret's coffee subscription, once a pandemic-era essential, experienced a significant shift in popularity. Launched in September 2020 at £20 per month, with an enticing free offer for the first mont … read more

Record Number of Companies Register with Companies House

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

A remarkable milestone has been reached in the business landscape as Companies House reveals a historic surge in new company registrations. With 244,717 businesses incorporated in the first quarter … read more

Popeyes UK Surpasses £100 Million in Annual Sales

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Popeyes UK has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing £100 million in annual sales, as announced by CEO Tom Crowley. This growth comes as the brand approaches the opening of its 50th site. Th … read more

Wet Weather May Spike Wheat Prices

Posted by Emma on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Recent reports suggest that bread, biscuits, and beer prices might increase due to prolonged wet weather across the UK. According to the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), poor harvests … read more

MPs Initiate Inquiry into Persistent Staff Shortages in Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emily on 29th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Hospitality and Tourism has initiated an investigation into the persistent recruitment and retention challenges facing the hospitality industry. The inq … read more

Takeaway and Delivery Sales Start to Plateau

Posted by Emma on 28th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In March, takeaway and delivery sales among Britain's prominent managed restaurant groups showed little year-on-year growth, according to the latest Hospitality at Home Tracker by CGA by NIQ. Sales … read more

Sainsbury's Gains Momentum with Shifting Consumer Behaviours Post-Pandemic

Posted by Emily on 28th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

As the pandemic's impact wanes, customers are increasingly returning to physical stores, moving away from the surge in online shopping, according to Sainsbury's CEO Simon Roberts. Roberts highlight … read more

Perrier Recalls Two Million Bottles Over Contamination Concerns

Posted by Emily on 28th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Perrier has recently had to destroy two million water bottles following a contamination issue detected by French health authorities. The contamination, including E. coli, was found in a well at Ver … read more

From Truffle Mayo to McChoco: The Wide World of McDonald's Fries

Posted by Emma on 28th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Despite the consistent offerings of fast food across the United States, McDonald's proves far more eclectic and adventurous in its global locations. As a worldwide fast food titan, McDonald's has a … read more

Episode 151: Andrew Crook Discusses Industry Challenges

Posted by Emily on 24th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, we welcome back Andrew Crook for an insightful discussion. Andrew, a regular since the podcast's early days, delves into the current state and prospects of the … read more

The Story of Starbucks' Rise from Local Café to Global Phenomenon

Posted by Emily on 23rd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In the heart of Seattle's bustling Pike Place Market, amidst the eclectic mix of vendors and artisans, a small café opened its doors on March 30, 1971. This modest establishment, founded by three f … read more

Comprehensive Allergen Management in Food Businesses

Posted by Emma on 23rd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In the UK, over 2 million people live with food allergies, and an additional 600,000 have Coeliac disease. Thus, allergen management is a legal necessity and a crucial aspect of customer service in … read more

HMRC Launches Nationwide Blitz on Suspected Till Fraud in Takeaways

Posted by Emily on 22nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In a bid to tackle the growing concern of Electronic Sales Suppression (ESS), HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has undertaken a series of unannounced inspections across England. Over the past month, t … read more

Government Delays Tipping Law Changes

Posted by Emma on 22nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The government has postponed enforcing new regulations dictating the distribution of tips until October 1, 2024. This decision comes alongside the Department for Business and Trade's release of an … read more

London Fire Brigade Issues Warning Following Restaurant Fire

Posted by Emma on 22nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

London Fire Brigade has issued a stark reminder to restaurant owners following a fire outbreak in Petts Wood, London, on Sunday evening. The incident, which required the response of ten fire engine … read more

Saving For Tax

Posted by Emma on 22nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Managing taxes efficiently is crucial for both limited companies and sole traders. A proactive approach to saving for taxes ensures compliance and enhances financial strategy. For limited companies … read more

Hostmore Seals Deal to Acquire TGI Fridays

Posted by Emma on 22nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

TGI Fridays, an American casual dining staple, has faced years of hardship amid shifting consumer tastes. However, a recent acquisition deal by its largest franchisee, U.K.-based Hostmore, offers a … read more

Berni Brothers: Innovators of the Great British Steakhouse

Posted by Emily on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The Berni Inn story is a quintessential tale of post-war British innovation and cultural evolution. Founded in 1955 by Italian brothers Frank and Aldo Berni, alongside their partner Paul Rosse, the … read more

A Cup of History: The J. Lyons & Co. Story

Posted by Emily on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

J. Lyons & Co., founded in 1884 by Joseph Lyons and his brothers-in-law, Isidore and Montague Gluckstein, emerged from a tobacco business background. They made their first foray into the catering i … read more

Loungers Sets Rapid Expansion Pace with Ambitious 600-Site Target

Posted by Emma on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Loungers, the parent company of popular hospitality brands Lounge, Cosy Club, and Brightside, is rapidly expanding its presence across the UK. This year, the company has maintained an impressive pa … read more

Unilever CEO Shifts Focus from ESG to Core Business Growth

Posted by Emma on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Unilever's CEO, Hein Schumacher, has scaled back various environmental and social initiatives following his decision to re-focus the brand away from embedding social justice themes. Last year, Schu … read more

Nestlé Downplays Impact of Shareholder Vote on Nutrition

Posted by Emily on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Nestlé recently faced a significant challenge from a minority of its shareholders who advocated for a shift towards more nutritious products. Despite an 11 per cent shareholder vote in favour of th … read more

Cheon Fat's Sales Suppression Battle with HMRC

Posted by Emily on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Cheon Fat Limited, the operator of The Wok Inn, recently confronted HMRC in a first-tier tribunal (FTT) to dispute VAT and corporation tax assessments under section 455 of the Corporation Tax Act 2 … read more

Why Keep a Cash Reserve

Posted by Emma on 21st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of maintaining a cash reserve for unexpected situations. A robust cash reserve provides flexibility, allowing your business to seamlessly navigate d … read more

Understanding Gross Profit and Net Profit

Posted by Emily on 16th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Gross profit and net profit may seem like technical terms, but they are crucial in assessing your business's financial performance. Let's explore what each means and why it matters. What is Gr … read more

Profit Margin vs. Markup: A Clear Distinction

Posted by Emma on 16th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Profit margin and markup, though often confused, are distinct financial metrics crucial for effective pricing strategies. While both rely on revenue and costs, they serve different purposes in anal … read more

Point of View - Boosting Business Reputation with Words

Posted by Stelios on 15th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

During a recent conversation with a friend who owns several retail food outlets, she shared a nugget of wisdom about customer service that stuck with me. Instead of " sorry for the … read more

Why Food Photography Is Crucial for Your Business

Posted by Stelios on 15th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

As a small business owner in the food sector, I understand the undeniable importance of first impressions. " Don't judge a book by its cover," they say, yet visuals speak volumes in the world of … read more