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​Comprehensive Allergen Management in Food Businesses

​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
​Government Delays Tipping Law Changes

​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
​Saving For Tax

​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

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

​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
​Cheon Fat's Sales Suppression Battle with HMRC

​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

​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

​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

​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
​Why Food Photography Is Crucial for Your Business

​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
​A Sticky Situation: Morrisons vs. HMRC in VAT Debate

​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
​Episode 150: The Birds Bakery Story with Jamie Bird

​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

​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
​A Wet Warning: The Urgent Call from UK Farmers

​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

​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
​JD Wetherspoon's Impressive Half-Year Performance

​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
​Ofgem's Crackdown on Hidden Energy Fees

​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
​Scotland Paves the Way: A Future Free from Hen Cages

​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

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

​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

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
Point of View - ​Who Pays for Thames Water Crisis?

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

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

​£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+

​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
​Restaurant Owner Jailed Over £30K Covid Loan Fraud

​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
​Gail's Bakery CEO Refutes Sale Speculation

​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

​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
​Whitbread Refocuses: Pubs Out, Premier Inns Up

​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
​McDonald's Exits Sri Lanka

​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
​Record Surge in Pub Insolvencies Marks a Decade-High

​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
​Brighter Days Ahead for Prezzo

​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

​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

​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
​Sweet Heat: Crafting Your Own Thai Chilli Sauce

​Sweet Heat: Crafting Your Own Thai Chilli Sauce

Posted by Emma on 13th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Treat your customers with this homemade Thai sweet chilli sauce or nam chim kai. A single batch, and you'll wonder why you ever opted for store-bought. This sauce isn't just a favourite of mine for … read more
​The Ultimate Japanese Curry with Ceres Sauce

​The Ultimate Japanese Curry with Ceres Sauce

Posted by Stelios on 13th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Japanese Curry is the ultimate comfort food, known for its unique blend of sweet and savoury flavours in a thick, delicious sauce. With Ceres Curry Sauce as your starting point, creating this … read more
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