Blog - Page 7 - Ceres Shop

We’ve made the Supplier of the Year Award shortlist 2024!

Posted by Emily on 14th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

We’ve done it again! For a second year in a row, we’ve made the final of the Supplier of the Year Award at the 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards. We are super proud as this prestigious accola … read more

Investor Confidence Skyrockets in Scottish Hotels

Posted by Emily on 13th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

The allure of Scottish hotels continues to captivate investors, with sales volumes almost doubling in the past year, showcasing the sector's resilience amid economic challenges. A notable highlight … read more

Heathrow Airport Advocates for the Repeal of UK's VAT on Tourists

Posted by Emily on 13th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Heathrow Airport executives are championing the movement to reinstate VAT-free shopping for international visitors before the upcoming Spring Budget. Dale Reeson, Heathrow's Director of Operations, … read more

The Valentine's Strike by Deliveroo and Uber Eats Riders

Posted by Emily on 12th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

On Valentine's Day, a significant number of food delivery drivers, estimated at 3,000, plan to strike from 5 PM to 10 PM GMT. This protest will impact services across four major food delivery platf … read more

The Oakman Group Announces Strategic Divestiture of Seafood Pub Company

Posted by Emily on 12th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

The Oakman Group has decided to step back from the Seafood Pub Company management role, a business it effectively rescued in 2021 by preventing its collapse. This significant move transfers control … read more

Azzurri Group Announces Remarkable Financial Growth

Posted by Emily on 12th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Azzurri Group, a leading name in the UK's dining scene, has proudly announced a significant uplift in its financial performance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. The group, behind the popul … read more

Ukraine Targets Consistent Crop Area for 2024

Posted by Emily on 11th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Ukraine is gearing up to maintain its spring sowing area for 2024 at the same level as 2023, according to Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky in a recent interview with Reuters. Ukraine's agricultur … read more

UK Farmers Escalate Actions Against Cheaper Imports

Posted by Emma on 11th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

UK farmers are gearing up for intensified protests akin to those seen in France, expressing opposition to the influx of low-cost food imports facilitated by recent trade agreements. The initial demons … read more

This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the UK Hospitality Industry - Week 5

Posted by Emily on 11th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage. This article is crafted to inform you about the latest news, trends, and developments in th … read more

M&B's Bold Move into BBQ Territory

Posted by Emma on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) is set to unveil its latest venture, the Orleans Smokehouse, marking its first major brand introduction since the success of Miller and Carter. This move pits M&B directly … read more

Gaucho and M's Parent Company, Rare Restaurants, Targets Growth after Record Sales

Posted by Emma on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Rare Restaurants, the parent company of Gaucho and M, is on the brink of significant expansion, planning to launch 30 new sites after achieving a record-breaking revenue of £75.3 million. Under … read more

JD Wetherspoon Implements 3% Price Hike Amid Cost Pressures

Posted by Emma on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

JD Wetherspoon has implemented a strategic price adjustment across its bars and restaurants, responding to significant cost increases. The company, which operates 814 locations, has announced an av … read more

Cocoa Prices Reach New Peak Amid El Niño Concerns

Posted by Emma on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Cocoa prices have surged to an unprecedented high due to adverse weather conditions in West Africa, significantly affecting the chocolate industry. On the New York commodities market, cocoa hit a r … read more

Finalists Revealed: Supplier of the Year Award 2024

Posted by Emily on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards have unveiled the top three contenders for the prestigious Supplier of the Year award, with the winner set to be revealed in the upcoming weeks. This award highlig … read more

The Village Fish Bar: Perry Frangeskou Creates a Unique Takeaway Experience in Collingham

Posted by Emily on 9th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Located in a conservation area where the council rarely grants takeaway licences, The Village Fish Bar in Collingham, Newark, Nottinghamshire, is in a very enviable position. As well as being the o … read more

Neat Burger Embarks on Health-Conscious Rebranding with Expanded Menu

Posted by Emma on 8th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Neat Burger, the plant-based fast-food chain co-founded by Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, is set to undergo a significant transformation. Initially launched in London in 2019 as a plant-based alte … read more

Pret A Manger Bids Farewell to Veggie-Only Stores in Strategic Overhaul

Posted by Emma on 8th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Pret A Manger, the renowned sandwich chain, has announced it will transform its remaining vegetarian-exclusive outlets into standard branches, signalling an end to its Veggie Pret experiment. Launc … read more

CAMRA's Plea for More Council Authority

Posted by Emily on 6th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) is advocating for the government to provide additional safeguards for pubs to prevent them from being unlawfully converted or demolished. The organisation emphasises t … read more

Episode 142: A Crucial Conversation with Kate Nicholls OBE on the Future of UK Hospitality

Posted by Emily on 5th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the Ceres Podcast, host Stelios engages in a deep conversation with Kate Nicholls OBE, the influential chief executive of UKHospitality. Episode 142 marks a significant mom … read more

Point of View - The Risk of Featuring Rivals in Ads

Posted by Stelios on 5th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Let's talk about something I've noticed lately that's been quite puzzling: major brands featuring their competitors in their advertising campaigns. It's an old tactic rooted deeply in the playful j … read more

Global Wheat Production Faces a 13% Decline Due to Wheat Blast

Posted by Emma on 5th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

A recent study warns of a potential 13% reduction in global wheat production by 2050 attributed to the fungal disease wheat blast. This marks the first time an international team of scientists has … read more

Jeremy Hunt is rethinking the tourist tax in the U.K.

Posted by Emily on 5th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Jeremy Hunt is considering eliminating the tourist tax, responding to concerns that it prevents international visitors from receiving VAT refunds on their purchases. This move comes after calls for … read more

Wagamama to Fuel Growth with 10 New Openings Across the UK

Posted by Emma on 5th Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Wagamama is set to enhance its UK presence by launching ten new restaurants in 2024, marking an increase from the six openings in the previous year. The expansion will introduce Wagamama's pan-Asia … read more

Hawksmoor Sizzles with Record Turnover and Profits in 2023

Posted by Emily on 3rd Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Hawksmoor has announced a landmark year in 2023, achieving record turnover and profit levels. The company's turnover surged by over 20% to reach £90 million, signalling a year of robust growth and … read more

Point of View - The Rise of Self-Service Kiosks: You Tempted?

Posted by Stelios on 3rd Feb 2024 Reading Time:

When self-service kiosks first made their appearance in the UK, it was at McDonald's. The sight was novel, and many customers were initially hesitant to embrace this new way of ordering. However … read more

This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the UK Hospitality Industry - Week 4

Posted by Emily on 2nd Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage. This article is crafted to inform you about the latest news, trends, and developments in th … read more

Labour's Promise to Cap Corporation Tax at 25%

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pledged that a future Labour government would fix the corporation tax rate at 25%. Addressing over 400 senior business leaders at Labour's day-long summit with b … read more

Rising Stars: Meet the Finalists of the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year

Posted by Emma on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards has announced its top four finalists for the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Award, showcasing exceptional young talent in the industry. Initially planned for … read more

Parliamentary Debate Amplifies Call for VAT Reduction in UK Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

MPs from various parties supported the call for enhanced governmental aid to the hospitality industry, notably advocating a VAT reduction. This critical debate, initiated by Alyn Smith, SNP MP for … read more

Full Expensing: Transforming Capital Investment in the UK

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Starting from 1 April 2023 until 31 March 2026, UK corporations can benefit from a significant tax advantage. Full expensing allows a complete first-year tax deduction on qualifying plant or machin … read more

Allen Simpson: New Deputy Chief Executive at UKHospitality

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

UKHospitality has announced the appointment of Allen Simpson as its Deputy Chief Executive. Simpson, an experienced tourism, investment, and city marketing professional, transitions to this role fr … read more

The Alchemist's Growth Plan: £15M Investment Fuels Expansion

Posted by Emily on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

The Alchemist, a prominent bar and restaurant group, has recently announced a significant expansion plan. With a £15 million investment from OakNorth Bank, the group is set to open ten new location … read more

Various Eateries' Ambitious Roll-Out Despite Economic Hurdles

Posted by Emma on 1st Feb 2024 Reading Time:

Various Eateries, the company behind popular restaurant chains Noci and Coppa Club, has reported a pre-tax loss of £6.7 million. Despite this, the firm is optimistic about its future, foc … read more

Kaptain Karaage: The Container King

Posted by Emily on 31st Jan 2024 Reading Time:

While its setting may be low-key on a side street off the bustling Tollcross junction in the southwestern part of Edinburgh's city centre, Kaptain Karaage is anything but. Its industrial shipping c … read more

Caffè Nero Unveils First Drive-Thru Site at Stansted Airport This Spring

Posted by Emily on 31st Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Caffè Nero is set to open its inaugural drive-thru store at Stansted Airport this spring, which is a significant development for the UK's drive-thru sector. Positioned just 500 yards from the main … read more

Comptoir Group: A Year of Strategic Growth and Solid Performance

Posted by Emily on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In a year marked by strategic expansion and adherence to its growth plans, Comptoir Group, a renowned operator of Lebanese-Middle Eastern and North African-inspired restaurants, has reported a prom … read more

Episode 141 - Discover the Art of Coffee with Austen Morley on Ceres Podcast

Posted by Emma on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Are you a coffee business owner or someone who enjoys a good cup of joe? The latest Ceres Podcast episode featuring Austen Morley from Morley's Coffee is a must-listen. With his unique approach to … read more

Wingstop UK Sets Sights on Ambitious Growth in 2024

Posted by Emily on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Since its UK debut in 2018, Wingstop UK has been on a steady trajectory of growth. In a significant development, Lemon Pepper Holdings, the master franchisee for Wingstop in the UK, has unveiled pl … read more

Point of View - The Power of Accountability

Posted by Stelios on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

At the end of January, business people in the UK face a critical deadline: self-assessment taxes are due. Recently, while chatting with a client, it became evident that they hadn't prepared for thi … read more

Tortilla's Expansion: New UK Transport Hubs with SSP

Posted by Emma on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In collaboration with SSP, a leading global food travel business, Tortilla is set to open four new locations in UK transport hubs this year. As the UK's largest fast-casual Mexican restaurant brand … read more

UK Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold to Increase Significantly on April 4

Posted by Emma on 30th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Effective April 4, the UK government will elevate the minimum salary requirement for skilled worker visas from £26,200 to £38,700, marking a 48% increase. This substantial rise, first announced by … read more

Loungers Celebrate Milestone with Launch of 250th Venue

Posted by Emily on 29th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Loungers, a prominent national café, bar, and restaurant operator, marks a significant milestone with the opening of its 250th venue, underscoring its aggressive expansion strategy across the UK.Im … read more

Macclesfield's Vegan Eatery Introduces Meat Options Amid Business Challenges

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In an industry as dynamic as hospitality, adaptability is often key to survival. This truth has recently been underscored by Nomas Gastrobar, a formerly vegan restaurant in Macclesfield. Facing sub … read more

French Farmers Escalate Protests, Demand Government Action Amidst Agricultural Crisis

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In recent days, France's agricultural landscape has been marked by an upsurge in protests, reflecting deep-seated frustrations among the farming community. Europe's largest agriculture producer is … read more

The Ivy Goes to Market: Richard Caring Lists The Ivy Group for Sale

Posted by Emily on 28th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

"Richard Caring, known as the 'king of Mayfair' and a renowned billionaire, has initiated the sale of his interest in the famed The Ivy restaurant and its related establishments, valuing the busine … read more

The Stalemate in UK-Canada Trade Talks: Hormone-Treated Beef and Cheese Tariffs Fuel Dispute

Posted by Emma on 27th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant development that has stirred the trading waters, the United Kingdom has paused its trade negotiations with Canada. Central to this deadlock is the contentious issue of hormone-trea … read more

PPHE Hotel Group: On Track for a Robust 2024

Posted by Emma on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

PPHE Hotel Group is gearing up for what they anticipate to be another prosperous year in 2024. Having already surpassed their expectations for the full-year financial results of 2023, they've successf … read more

Aldi's New Website Section Highlights British Goods Following MP Campaign

Posted by Emily on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In a strategic move to promote local businesses, Aldi has introduced a 'Buy British' section on its website. This initiative positions Aldi as a front-runner in supporting British suppliers, fol … read more

This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the U.K. Hospitality Industry - Week 4

Posted by Emily on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage. This article is crafted to inform you about the latest news, trends, and developments in th … read more

Paddy & Scott's Coffee: A New Chapter Under Management's Wing

Posted by Emily on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In a significant move for the coffee industry, Paddy & Scott's Coffee, a renowned coffee wholesaler and café operator, has been acquired by its management team. The acquisition, led by CEO Jona … read more

Cardiff Spearheads Government-Endorsed Hospitality Jobs Program

Posted by Emily on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Cardiff has become the latest city to embrace an innovative government-backed scheme to train individuals for hospitality careers. This initiative, a collaboration between UKHospitality and Cambria … read more

JD Wetherspoon's Remarkable 10% Rise in Sales

Posted by Emma on 26th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In the latest financial review, JD Wetherspoon has demonstrated a notable performance, reporting a 10.1% increase in like-for-like sales over a 25-week period ending on January 21, 2024. This gr … read more

Announcing the 2024 Overseas Fish and Chip Shop Award Finalists

Posted by Emily on 24th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In an exciting development for 2024, the National Fish and Chip Awards have introduced a new category: the Overseas Fish and Chip Shop. This category aims to honour international businesses that ar … read more

Why Management Accounts are Crucial for Your Business

Posted by Emily on 24th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Just as you wouldn't drive a car without consulting its dashboard, navigating a business without management accounts is equally risky. How else would you know the speed and direction of your busine … read more

Understanding EBITDA: Understanding Its Role in Business

Posted by Emily on 24th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

EBITDA, or 'Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation,' is a key profitability metric. It limits a company's core performance by excluding non-core financial elements. However, … read more

Fish & Chips the Wright way

Posted by Emily on 24th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

“I would never have thought of doing this in the UK because there are so many fish and chip shops, but I came to the States and there was a niche. I grabbed it, ran with it and we’ve been really su … read more

Rockfish's Bold Move: £3m Fundraiser Following Tough Year

Posted by Emily on 23rd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Rockfish, led by Mitch Tonks, is embarking on a £3m fundraising initiative to fuel its expansion despite experiencing a challenging year. This move aligns with the seafood group's ambitions to … read more

Popeyes Launches First Travel Hub in London's Waterloo as UK Expansion Accelerates

Posted by Emily on 22nd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Popeyes is set to debut its first travel hub restaurant at London's Waterloo Station, marking a significant milestone in its aggressive UK expansion strategy. This initiative is part of a broader p … read more

Patty & Bun's Strategic Expansion Amid Financial Challenges

Posted by Emma on 22nd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Patty & Bun, a prominent name in the casual dining sector, remains committed to expanding its restaurant footprint despite experiencing a financial downturn. In its recent financial statements, … read more

Dine Brands Eyes UK Expansion with Innovative IHOP-Applebee's Duo

Posted by Emma on 22nd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Dine Brands Global, a prominent US casual dining operator, is strategically moving into the UK market with a unique dual-branded restaurant concept featuring its renowned IHOP and Applebee's chains … read more

Crisp Competition: Meet the Finalists of the Field to Frier Award

Posted by Emma on 22nd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards have announced a highly anticipated shortlist for their Field to Frier category, shining a spotlight on three exceptional chip shops from County Durham and Wales. The … read more

UK Pub Industry Faces Significant Decline with Over 500 Closures in 2023

Posted by Emma on 22nd Jan 2024 Reading Time:

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has reported a concerning trend in the UK's pub sector, with over 500 establishments closing their doors in 2023. This decline signifies a loss of cultur … read more

This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the UK Hospitality Industry - Week 3

Posted by Emma on 20th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage. This article is crafted to inform you about the latest news, trends, and developments in th … read more

Episode 140 - Geoff Whitehead from Dreams to Reality

Posted by Emma on 20th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

Stelios welcomes Geoff Whitehead, the current National Federation of Fish Friers Fish & Chip Shop of the Year winner, in an engaging episode 140 of the Ceres Podcast that promises insights, in … read more

Walkers' Sensations Poppadoms: A Crisp Debate in VAT Classification

Posted by Emily on 20th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In a recent high-profile VAT case, Walkers, a prominent crisp manufacturer owned by PepsiCo, found itself at the centre of a tax classification debate over its product, Sensations Poppadoms. The co … read more

Unfounded Fears: The Truth Behind Russia's Fishing Ban and the UK's Fish & Chips

Posted by Emma on 20th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

The recent announcement by Russia to revoke a longstanding fishing agreement with the UK, dating back to 1956, has stirred media attention and public concern, particularly regarding the potential i … read more

Fazenda Soars with Festive Success: Eyes on London and Europe

Posted by Emily on 18th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

South American restaurant chain Fazenda is exploring expansion opportunities following a record-breaking Christmas season. The group, which currently operates six restaurants, reported an impressiv … read more

Summary of Christie & Co's Business Outlook 2024: Navigating the Evolving UK Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emily on 18th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

This article provides a summarised overview of the "Business Outlook 2024" report by Christie & Co, focusing on the evolving dynamics within the UK hospitality sector. The report sheds light on … read more

Rising Concerns Over Imported Poultry: NFU and FSA Address Salmonella Risks

Posted by Emily on 18th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has voiced significant concerns regarding the safety of poultry products imported into the UK, particularly in light of recent reports of increasing Salmonella ent … read more

Robust Festive Growth in UK Hospitality Sector Amid Economic Challenges

Posted by Emma on 18th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

In December 2023, the UK hospitality sector, comprising pubs, bars, and restaurants, witnessed a substantial year-on-year sales growth of 8.8%. This finding, from the latest CGA RSM Hospitality Bus … read more

Top Contenders for the NFFF Quality Accreditation Champion Award 2024

Posted by Emily on 18th Jan 2024 Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards has unveiled its top three contenders for the coveted Quality Accreditation Champion Award. These finalists, hailing from various parts of the UK, represent the be … read more