Blog - Page 6 - Ceres Shop

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

Domino's Completes £62m Acquisition of Irish Franchise

Posted by Emma on 14th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Domino's Pizza Group (DPG) has strategically expanded its operations by acquiring Shorecal Limited, the principal Domino's franchise in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, for £62 mill … read more

A Sticky Situation: Morrisons vs. HMRC in VAT Debate

Posted by Emily on 14th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The ongoing debate over VAT on snack bars has taken a new twist as the First Tier Tribunal (FTT) revisits the case between Morrisons and HMRC. This legal battle focuses on whether certain snack bar … read more

Legal Tensions at Gordon Ramsay's York & Albany as Squatters Move In

Posted by Emily on 14th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Gordon Ramsay's York & Albany pub and boutique hotel near Regent's Park in London has been occupied by squatters. The group has fortified their position, using kitchen appliances to barricade e … read more

Episode 150: The Birds Bakery Story with Jamie Bird

Posted by Emma on 14th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In the 150th episode of the Ceres Podcast, Jamie Bird of Birds Bakery steps into the spotlight for his first appearance, bringing stories from a bakery that's touched the hearts of many in Der … read more

The Rise and Fall of Little Chef

Posted by Emma on 14th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In 1958, the British roadside witnessed the birth of a beloved institution: Little Chef. The brainchild of catering mogul Peter Merchant and caravan manufacturer Sam Alper, this chain was inspired … read more

Episode 149: Marcus French on Sustaining a Century-Old Business

Posted by Emma on 10th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In episode 149 of the Ceres Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Marcus French, the heart and soul behind the renowned French Fish Shop in Wells-next-the-Sea. A third-generation frier, Marcus br … read more

Point of View - The Fight Against Shop Worker Assaults, is Britain angry?

Posted by Stelios on 10th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Recently, I was waiting in a Greggs. I noticed a sign declaring a "zero tolerance" policy on the wall. It made me think that abuse towards staff must be becoming standard in local shops and emergen … read more

A Wet Warning: The Urgent Call from UK Farmers

Posted by Emma on 10th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

According to farming organisations, the UK's food production sector is under significant stress following a period of record-breaking rainfall. This unprecedented weather has severely impacted crop … read more

Resilience of Meat Consumption in the UK

Posted by Emma on 9th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Despite evolving dietary preferences over the past five years, influenced by Covid lockdowns and escalating food prices, meat continues to be a central component of meals for many in the UK. Recent … read more

Wendy's to Boost UK Presence with New Restaurant Openings

Posted by Emma on 9th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Wendy's is set to significantly expand its presence in the UK, announcing a series of new restaurant openings throughout the year. This ambitious expansion strategy targets northern and southern En … read more

Point of View - McDonald's Decisions: More Than Meets the Eye?

Posted by Stelios on 8th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

I've been diving deep into McDonald's recent move to buy back its 225 restaurants in Israel. Honestly, the more I think about it, the more I see it as an intelligent business strategy rather tha … read more

The B Corp Blueprint: Elevating Business Standards in the UK

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In the UK, B Corporations (B Corps) are at the forefront of a transformative business movement, blending profit with purpose to address societal and environmental challenges. Verified by B Lab, B C … read more

Prime's Fall from Grace: The Bubble Bursts on Viral Success

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In a startling turn of events, Prime, once heralded as the pinnacle of viral soft drink brands, has seen its sales plummet in the first quarter of 2024. Data from NIQ reveals a significant drop, wi … read more

Nestlé at the Crossroads: Health Activism and Corporate Responsibility

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Nestlé is facing scrutiny from a coalition of shareholders led by ShareAction. The shareholders accuse the company of overly depending on products high in salt, sugar, and fats - collectively known … read more

British Consumers Tighten Belts, Impacting Retail Sales

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

British consumers reduced their spending on food last month, leading to stagnant retail sales following an impressive start to the year. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retai … read more

JD Wetherspoon's Impressive Half-Year Performance

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon's first-half sales have surged by 10%, outpacing the broader pub industry, leveraging its pricing advantage to maintain a leading position. During the period up to January 28, lik … read more

Nestlé Water Springs Contamination: What You Need to Know

Posted by Emily on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Recent findings reveal faecal contamination at the French springs from which Nestlé sources water for its mineral brands. The National Agency for Food Safety (Anses) uncovered "transient microbiolo … read more

UK's Surge in Wheat Imports Amid Crop Challenges, Reports AHDB

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB) has highlighted significant concerns regarding the UK's winter crops for the 2024 harvest, indicating a considerable impact on this seaso … read more

Krispy Kreme & McDonald's: A Sweet Expansion Across the U.S. by 2026

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The recent announcement from Krispy Kreme about their nationwide expansion of doughnuts in all McDonald's restaurants across the U.S. by the end of 2026 has sent its shares soaring by 23%. This exp … read more

Frying with Ambition: How Prices Fish & Chips Reeled in Success

Posted by Emily on 7th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

James Price is a driven, forward-thinking operator who is constantly looking at how he can get more customers through the door of his takeaway, Prices Fish & Chips in Ringwood. He’s had to because … read more

The Last Squirt: How McDonald's and Heinz's Partnership Came to a Sticky End

Posted by Emma on 6th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In 2013, the fast-food industry witnessed a significant corporate strategy shift when McDonald's announced the end of its long-standing partnership with Heinz. This decision, marking the ending of … read more

Ofgem's Crackdown on Hidden Energy Fees

Posted by Emma on 6th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move towards enhancing transparency within the energy sector, Ofgem has announced the introduction of new measures to regulate energy brokers more effectively. This decision comes … read more

Wetherspoon Unveils New £2.5m Pub at London's Waterloo Station

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In an exciting development for London's hospitality scene, JD Wetherspoon has announced the opening of a new pub at London Waterloo station, following a substantial £2.5 million investment. Named t … read more

Point of View - Unpacking France's American Fast Food Obsession

Posted by Stelios on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

I've discovered something fascinating: despite France's rich culinary heritage, its people have a growing appetite for American fast food. In 2023, France emerged as Europe's third-largest market f … read more

The Breakfast Club trims costs in a bid to boost performance

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The Breakfast Club's strategic approach to cost management has significantly enhanced its financial outcomes, as evidenced by the recent fiscal report for the year ending 31 March 2023. Catsteps Ca … read more

A Closer Look at Food Price Inflation: Hospitality Versus Retail

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

The latest report from the CGA Prestige Foodservice Price Index highlights a persistent gap in food price inflation between the hospitality sector and retail. As of March 2023, both sectors experie … read more

McDonald's Regains Control: A Strategic Acquisition in Israel

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move underscoring its commitment to the Israeli market, McDonald's Corporation has announced the acquisition of its Israeli franchise from Alonyal Ltd. This pivotal deal encompasse … read more

Unilever's Strategic Overhaul: Spinning Off Ice Cream

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Unilever, the conglomerate behind beloved brands like Marmite and Magnum, is taking decisive action to rejuvenate its business. The company announced it will separate its €8 billion ice cream divis … read more

Scotland Paves the Way: A Future Free from Hen Cages

Posted by Emily on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Scotland is on the brink of a pioneering shift in animal welfare, with a proposed ban on caging laying hens, setting a precedent within the UK. The Scottish government has launched a consultation a … read more

The Impact of New Import Common User Charge

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

As the UK adjusts to its post-Brexit reality, the government's introduction of common user charges (CUC) for importing food from the EU has sparked widespread concern across the food industry. … read more

Calorie Count Concerns: A Scottish Report's Warning

Posted by Emma on 4th Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Public Health Scotland has cautioned Scottish hospitality businesses about displaying calorie counts on their menus. This warning stems from a report titled "Exploring the Perspectives of People wi … read more

Episode 148: Jamie Russo's Story

Posted by Emma on 2nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In episode 148 of the Ceres Podcast, Jamie Russo, the young and dynamic owner of the Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven, makes his debut appearance, sharing an insightful journey from worker to a … read more

Revolution Bars Group Faces Uncertain Future with Share Suspension

Posted by Emma on 2nd Apr 2024 Reading Time:

Revolution Bars Group has temporarily suspended its shares on the AIM market due to a delay in publishing its semi-annual financial results. The company missed the 30 March deadline to file its fin … read more

Point of View - Who Pays for Thames Water Crisis?

Posted by Stelios on 1st Apr 2024 Reading Time:

In the unfolding drama of Thames Water, a crisis threatens not just the future of Britain's largest water company but the very principles of utility regulation and consumer protection. As a consume … read more

UK National Living Wage Increase 2024

Posted by Emily on 31st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In April 2024, the UK will witness a noteworthy rise in the national living wage, elevating it from £10.42 to £11.44 per hour. This adjustment extends eligibility to individuals aged 21 and 22, mar … read more

Richard Caring Tests New Waters with Bill's Café & Bar Initiative

Posted by Emma on 31st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Richard Caring is embarking on an exciting venture to gauge interest in a new café bar concept derived from his successful casual dining chain, Bill's. This innovative pilot aims to establish a nat … read more

Sodexo to Introduce Carbon Labels on Menus Across Over 300 UK Locations

Posted by Emma on 31st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Sodexo is set to introduce carbon labelling on menus at over 300 of its UK and Ireland sites by the end of 2024. The company is responding to the increasing customer demand for dishes with a minima … read more

Travelodge's Revenue Breaks Through £1 Billion Mark

Posted by Emma on 31st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Travelodge has surpassed £1 billion in revenue, marking a significant milestone fuelled by robust demand from business travellers and tourists. The budget hotel chain unveiled its annu … read more

Baking Success: Greggs Claims 2% of Hospitality Market

Posted by Emma on 31st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Greggs now garners £2 from every £100 spent in the UK's hospitality sector. This revelation comes from the company's latest trading update, highlighting a substantial 27% increase in annual prof … read more

St Pancras International Welcomes New Restaurant Shake Shack

Posted by Emma on 28th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Shake Shack is set to launch its inaugural train station outlet in the UK at the bustling St Pancras International, marking a significant expansion of the American burger franchise. Slated for an e … read more

£63 rise in statutory sick pay is overdue, MPs say

Posted by Emma on 28th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Members of Parliament (MPs) have deemed an increase in statutory sick pay (SSP) both necessary and overdue, emphasising the importance of finding a middle ground that supports employees without ove … read more

Proposal to Extend National Living Wage to 18+

Posted by Emma on 28th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The Low Pay Commission (LPC) proposes a significant shift towards economic fairness by recommending that the government extend the National Living Wage eligibility to individuals aged 18, down from … read more

When Food Delivery Goes Wrong: A Grievous Assault Case

Posted by Emma on 27th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a startling event, a delivery rider, Jenniffer Rocha, 35, has admitted to grievously injuring a customer by biting off his thumb. The incident, which unfolded near the victim's home in Aldershot … read more

Restaurant Owner Jailed Over £30K Covid Loan Fraud

Posted by Emily on 27th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

A Turkish restaurant owner was imprisoned after being convicted of fraudulently acquiring a £30,000 Covid Bounce Back Loan and attempting to dissolve his company without alerting his creditors. Ilh … read more

Kate Nicholls OBE Appointed as National Chair of the Institute of Licensing

Posted by Emma on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The Institute of Licensing (IoL) is proud to announce the election of Kate Nicholls OBE as its new National Chair, starting 1st April 2024 along side her role as chair of UKHospitality. Alongs … read more

Settlement Awarded in Uber Eats Facial Recognition Bias Case

Posted by Emma on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

An Uber Eats driver, subjected to racially biased facial-recognition technology, has secured a settlement. Pa Edrissa Manjang's experience with the app's Microsoft-powered verification system led t … read more

Gail's Bakery CEO Refutes Sale Speculation

Posted by Emma on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Tom Molnar, CEO and co-founder of Gail's Bakery, has clarified recent speculations about the company being put up for sale, labelling such rumours as 'inaccurate'. Despite a report from Sky News … read more

Little Caesars Pizza Marks Its London Entry

Posted by Emma on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The American pizza chain Little Caesars has inaugurated its inaugural London branch in Greenford. Franchisee Rajan Sandhu leads this venture and follows closely after the brand's new outlet in Top … read more

43 Papa Johns Locations to Close in UK Business Revamp

Posted by Emily on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a bold move towards optimising its business for future growth, Papa Johns has announced the closure of 43 of its restaurants across the UK. This decision is part of a comprehensive business revi … read more

Whitbread Refocuses: Pubs Out, Premier Inns Up

Posted by Emma on 26th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Whitbread, owner of Premier Inn hotels, actively seeks to sell or repurpose approximately a third of its Beefeater and Brewers Fayre pubs. This decision emerged after evaluating the company's 400-s … read more

JD Wetherspoon Achieves Record Sales Despite Reduced Pub Count

Posted by Emma on 22nd Mar 2024 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon has unveiled impressive half-year results, showcasing a significant sales increase, nearly reaching the £1bn mark. Over the 26 weeks leading up to January 28, 2024, the company witne … read more

Our Conversation with Paul Goodgame on TCG's Acquisition of Toffs of Muswell Hill

Posted by Emma on 21st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The Chesterford Group (TCG) is thrilled to announce its acquisition of the esteemed Toffs fish and chip restaurant in Muswell Hill, marking a significant expansion. This strategic move took place o … read more

Greggs Successfully Overcomes Technical Glitch, Resuming Normal Operations

Posted by Emily on 21st Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a swift response to this morning's technical difficulties, Greggs has effectively rectified the issue that necessitated the temporary closure of several of its UK outlets. The disruption, primar … read more

McDonald's Exits Sri Lanka

Posted by Emma on 20th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a decisive move, McDonald's has ended its partnership in Sri Lanka, leading to the closure of all 12 outlets within the country, as confirmed by the company's legal representative, Sanath Wijewa … read more

Boosting UK Tourism: The Urgent Need for Increased Funding

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The Tourism Alliance, representing 70 industry bodies, has spotlighted a critical underinvestment in the UK's tourism sector. With only 81p allocated per capita for international marketing, the … read more

Coca-Cola Bottler Demands Action on Recycling Before Election

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the sole licensed bottler for Coca-Cola in Europe, is pressing the UK government to enact a deposit return scheme (DRS) law for single-use drink containers before th … read more

Knoops: Crafting the Future of Hot Chocolate, One Shop at a Time

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

William Gordon-Harris, the driving force behind Knoops, a burgeoning hot chocolate brand, harbours grand ambitions. What began as a serendipitous encounter with a small artisan shop in Rye has f … read more

Nespresso Dives Into the UK Coffee Scene with Its Premier Café

Posted by Emma on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In the bustling coffee market of the UK, dominated by giants like Costa Coffee, Starbucks, and Pret a Manger, Nespresso is making a bold move. The brand, famously endorsed by George Clooney and Dav … read more

New Apprenticeship Funding Boost for Small Businesses

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The UK Government has announced significant reforms to the apprenticeship system to support small businesses and enhance workforce development. As of 1 April, small businesses will benefit from ful … read more

Hospital-Linked Listeria Outbreak Claims Lives, Inquest Finds

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

An inquest into the tragic deaths of two patients at Manchester Royal Infirmary reveals a concerning link to chicken mayonnaise sandwiches tainted with listeria. Beverley Sowah, a 57-year-old retir … read more

Record Surge in Pub Insolvencies Marks a Decade-High

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

The UK pub industry faced a severe challenge in 2023, witnessing nearly 800 insolvencies, the highest figure in over ten years. Data from Price Bailey, a leading accountancy firm, reveals that 769 … read more

From Sprite to Evian: The Label-Less Revolution in Beverage Packaging

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a pioneering move towards sustainability, Coca-Cola has embarked on an experiment in the UK by removing labels from Sprite bottles. This trial is not just about reducing packaging waste; it's a … read more

Brighter Days Ahead for Prezzo

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

Prezzo's financial landscape is looking up after a pivotal year. In 2023, the restaurant chain achieved profitability, a testament to its extensive restructuring efforts. This turnaround followed a … read more

McDonald's Responds to Consumers Eating at Home

Posted by Emily on 17th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In the face of economic constraints, McDonald's has observed a trend where more consumers, particularly those with limited income, are opting to dine at home instead of eating out. According to McD … read more

McDonald's Focus Shifts: Size Over Premium

Posted by Emily on 17th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

McDonald's has determined that its customers prefer larger, more fulfilling burgers over premium options. CFO Ian Borden revealed at the UBS Global Consumer and Retail Conference that this approach … read more

McDonald's Points to Third-Party Provider for Global Service Interruption

Posted by Emma on 17th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

McDonald's attributed the technical issues that halted its operations last Friday to a third-party service provider. The worldwide disruption affected order-taking in critical markets, incl … read more

Greggs Announces Generous Staff Bonuses Following a Record-Breaking Profit Year

Posted by Emily on 15th Mar 2024 Reading Time:

In a display of exceptional financial performance, Greggs will distribute £17.6 million in bonuses among its employees, celebrating a remarkable 27% increase in annual profits. This announcement co … read more