Blog

​Trade Associations Lobby for Fair Business Rates Adjustment

Posted by Emily on 7th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Leading trade associations, including UKHospitality and the British Beer and Pub Association, have urgently appealed to the Chancellor to adjust the forthcoming April business rates to reflect curr … read more

​2024 Budget Overview: Key Takeaways for the Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emma on 7th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

The hospitality sector expressed disappointment following Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's unveiling of the 2024 Budget. Despite high hopes, the industry's call for a VAT reduction went unheeded. In what i … read more

​Gaucho Launches VAT-Free Lunch to Advocate for Hospitality VAT Reduction

Posted by Emily on 6th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

In a strategic move, Gaucho has announced it will offer a VAT-free lunch every Friday throughout March, starting on the 8th. This initiative will be available at all 10 of Gaucho's central London l … read more

​Point of View - Surge Pricing Like Your Uber Fare

Posted by Stelios on 5th Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Imagine a future where the price of your fish and chips fluctuates based on the time of day. This future is closer than it might seem. The concept, known as "dynamic pricing," has made headlines wi … read more

​Episode 147: Charlie Collins on Winning Customers and Cutting Costs

Posted by Emma on 2nd Mar 2024       Reading Time:

In episode 147 of the Ceres Podcast, the return of Charlie Collins, who previously appeared in episode 62, brings an insightful exploration of the resilience and strategic adaptation required in th … read more

​The Business Guide to Dynamic and Surge Pricing Models

Posted by Emma on 2nd Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Dynamic pricing and surge pricing are pivotal strategies in the modern business landscape, offering flexibility and responsiveness to market demands. Understanding the nuances between these models … read more

​Hyatt and IHG Triumph in 2023: Record Profits and Expansion Amid Surging Travel Demand

Posted by Emma on 2nd Mar 2024       Reading Time:

In the competitive hospitality sector, Hyatt and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) reported significant growth and expansion in 2023, reflecting a strong demand for travel and a robust performanc … read more

​Covid Loan Fraud Leads to Suspended Sentence for Takeaway Owner

Posted by Emily on 2nd Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Zaman Shaa, the former director of Shaa Ventures Ltd., which operated Chutneys Indian Takeaway in Salisbury, faced legal consequences for misappropriating a Covid relief loan. In August 2020, Shaa … read more

​Wendy's Clarifies Pricing Strategy Amid Dynamic Pricing Speculation

Posted by Emily on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Wendy's recently addressed rumours about altering its pricing model to charge more during peak hours. The speculation was sparked by comments from Wendy's CEO, Kirk Tanner, which were widely misint … read more

​Papa John's Announces Closure of 50 UK Outlets to Cut Losses

Posted by Emily on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Papa John's has announced plans to shut down around 50 company-owned restaurants across the UK. This decision is part of a strategic move to address financial losses and enhance operational effi … read more

​Episode 146: John Molnar's Vision for The Cod's Scallops

Posted by Emma on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

In this engaging episode 146 of the Ceres Podcast, we reconnect with John Molnar, the force behind The Cod's Scallops. With outlets spread across Nottingham and an outpost in Harborne, Birming … read more

​Spotlight on Excellence: National Fish and Chip Awards Unveil 2024 Winners Full List

Posted by Emma on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

The National Fish and Chip Awards is a hallmark event celebrating the pinnacle of the fish and chip industry. Hosted by comedian Rob Beckett, the ceremony highlighted domestic achievements and ackn … read more

​Whiteheads Fish and Chips: Setting the Sustainability Bar High

Posted by Emma on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Whiteheads Fish and Chips, located in Hornsea, East Yorkshire, has been awarded the prestigious title of the UK's leading fish and chip shop in environmental stewardship at the National Fish and Ch … read more

​Rising Star: Jamie Russo Clinches Young Fish Frier 2024 Title

Posted by Emma on 1st Mar 2024       Reading Time:

Jamie Russo of Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven, Scotland, has been awarded the prestigious Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year 2024. Winning this accolade places him in the esteemed company of pas … read more

​French's Fish Shop: Crowned Quality Accreditation Champion at National Fish & Chip Awards

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

French's Fish Shop in Wells Next The Sea has been honoured as the Quality Accreditation Champion of 2024 by the National Fish and Chip Awards. This accolade comes after a rigorous evaluation throug … read more

​Jojo's Fish and Chips Crowned Mobile Operator of the Year 2024

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Staffordshire's Jojo's Fish and Chips has been declared the top Mobile Operator of the Year at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024. Jojo's emerged victorious amid stiff competition after a compr … read more

​Redcloak Fish Bar Shines as Newcomer of the Year at National Awards

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In an impressive victory, Redcloak Fish Bar in Stonehaven was awarded the title Newcomer of the Year at the National Fish and Chip Awards. This recognition marks a significant milestone for the Sco … read more

​Stockport Talent Shines at National Fish and Chip Awards

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Stockport's very own Taylors have reason to celebrate as team member Jamie Toland has been honoured with the inaugural Employee of the Year award at the National Fish and Chip Awards. This new awar … read more

​Bells Fish and Chips Crowned Multiple Operator of the Year 2024

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Bells Fish and Chips has been honoured as the Multiple Operator of the Year at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024, setting a benchmark for excellence in the industry. Competing against notable … read more

​Zero Plus Fish & Chips Triumphs in Marketing & Innovation Award

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Zero Plus Fish & Chips has been recognised for its exceptional marketing and innovative customer engagement strategies, securing the prestigious Marketing & Innovation Award at the National … read more

​Ship Deck Secures Top Spot in National Fish and Chip Awards 2024

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Caerphilly's Cardiff's Ship Deck has been honoured with the National Fish and Chip Awards' Takeaway of the Year title in a notable industry achievement. Celebrating its 36th anniversary, the Nation … read more

Ceres ​Celebrates Supplier of the Year Award win!

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

We are over the moon to have won the Supplier of the Year category at The National Fish & Chip Awards 2024 in London yesterday. This prestigious event, hosted at the Park Plaza Westminster … read more

​Knights Fish Restaurant NFFF Restaurant of the Year 2024

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Knights Fish Restaurant in Glastonbury has been named the Restaurant of the Year at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2024, a testament to its excellence in the fish and chip industry. Competing ag … read more

​The Real Food Café Claims the Prestigious National Award for Staff and Training Development

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

The Real Food Café has been honoured with the Staff and Training Development Award for a significant achievement at the National Fish and Chip Awards. This accolade underscores the café's commitmen … read more

​Bells Fish and Chips Emerges as the Top Contender for the Field to Frier Award

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a remarkable showcase of expertise and quality, Bells Fish and Chips in County Durham has triumphed over national competition to win the Field to Frier Award at this year's National Fish and Chi … read more

​Wright's Fish & Chips: Bringing Authentic British Taste to Atlanta

Posted by Emma on 29th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Wright's Fish and Chips, located in Cumming, has proudly secured the first-ever Overseas Fish and Chip Shop Award at the distinguished National Fish and Chip Awards 2024. This accolade celebrates i … read more

This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the UK Hospitality Industry - Week 7

Posted by Emma on 25th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage or news that could affect hospitality. This article is crafted to inform you about the … read more

​Episode 145: Paulo de Tarso Mastering the Art of Hospitality

Posted by Emma on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In the compelling 145th episode of the Ceres Podcast, we dive deep into the life and insights of Paulo de Tarso, a name that has become a hallmark of excellence in hospitality. From washing po … read more

​Accor Shatters Earnings Record with Over €1 Billion EBITDA in 2023

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Accor has surpassed the €1 billion EBITDA threshold for the first time, propelled by robust demand. This milestone underscores a year of remarkable financial performance for the global hospitali … read more

​Sustained Growth in the Delivery and Takeaway Industry Amid Economic Challenges

Posted by Emma on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

The delivery and takeaway sector in the UK's top-managed restaurant groups has seen a 4% increase in sales compared to January 2023, according to the latest Hospitality at Home Tracker by CGA by … read more

​Seven-Year Ban for Restaurant Owner Over Illegal Employment

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In Hertfordshire, the proprietor of the Taste of Raj, an Indian restaurant and takeaway, has received a seven-year prohibition on serving as a company director. This action comes after it was disco … read more

​Sticks'n'Sushi Gears Up for UK Expansion with £22M Funding

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Sticks'n'Sushi has obtained a £22 million loan from OakNorth Bank, earmarked for its ambitious UK expansion strategy. This financial boost follows the January acquisition by McWin, a private equity … read more

​MCR Hotels Acquires London's BT Tower for £275 Million

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a landmark deal, BT Group announced the sale of the iconic BT Tower in Fitzrovia, London, to North American hotel giant MCR Hotels for £275 million. MCR Hotels, recognised as the third-larges … read more

​Salt Bae's Nusr-Et London Celebrates a 44% Surge in Profits

Posted by Emily on 21st Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Salt Bae's iconic Nusr-Et steakhouse, nestled in the heart of London's Knightsbridge, has reported a remarkable 44% increase in profit before tax, rising to £3.3 million, according to the latest fi … read more

​Vapiano Aims for Significant UK Growth

Posted by Emily on 21st Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Vapiano, the esteemed Italian dining group, plans to expand its UK footprint significantly. The company, known for its inviting pizza and pasta offerings, currently boasts five locations across the … read more

​Pho Eyes National Growth After Stellar Year

Posted by News on 21st Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Pho, the Vietnamese restaurant chain supported by TriSpan, is set to enhance its national presence by launching six to seven new locations this year, building on a 'strong' performance in 2023. Dir … read more

​Pret A Manger Announces Price Reductions on Top-Selling Items

Posted by Emily on 19th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a strategic move to address previous price increases, Pret A Manger has announced significant cuts on its six most popular items. This decision follows a period of heightened scrutiny over its p … read more

​Celebrating Excellence: 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards Finalists Complete List

Posted by Emma on 18th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

It's exciting to see the finalists for the 2024 NFFF National Fish and Chip Awards, a celebration of excellence in the fish and chip industry. A big shoutout to all our customers and friends who ha … read more

​Coca-Cola Defies Market Trends with Strong Sales Growth

Posted by Emily on 17th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a challenging consumer goods market, Coca-Cola has demonstrated resilience and strategic acumen by posting a notable increase in sales volumes despite higher product prices. This performanc … read more

​This Week in Hospitality: Key Media Stories on the UK Hospitality Industry - Week 6

Posted by Emily on 17th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Welcome to our weekly round-up, where we delve into the mainstream media's hospitality industry coverage or news that could affect hospitality. This article is crafted to inform you about the … read more

​Business Alarm at Labour's 'Full Fat' Workers' Rights Proposals

Posted by Emily on 17th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Businesses across the UK are expressing concerns over Labour's proposed comprehensive overhaul of employment laws, dubbed the "full fat" approach. Spearheaded by Angela Rayner, the deputy leader of … read more

​Episode 144 - Reading The News with Jim Cowie

Posted by Emily on 16th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In this episode of the Ceres Podcast, Stelios discusses the hospitality news with Jim Cowie from the Seafood Matters Podcast. They discuss the following topics: Unfounded Fears: The Truth … read more

​Pontins Faces Legal Action Over Discrimination Against Irish Travellers

Posted by Emily on 15th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Pontins has been issued an unlawful act notice by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) for engaging in discriminatory practices against Irish Travellers. The EHRC's investigation reveale … read more

​Tortilla Parts Ways with Deliveroo in Strategic Overhaul

Posted by Emma on 15th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a strategic move to refine its delivery operations, Tortilla has concluded its delivery partnership with Deliveroo. The decision is part of Tortilla's broader strategy to improve its profitabili … read more

Episode 143: George's Tradition with Nick Hogan

Posted by Emily on 15th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In the latest episode of the  Ceres Podcast, Season 7, Episode 143, Stelios had the privilege of sitting down with Nick Hogan, the managing director of George's Tradition, a name synonymous … read more

​Rhubarb Hospitality Collection's Profitable Turnaround

Posted by Emily on 14th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

Rhubarb Hospitality Collection (RHC), a distinguished London-based caterer and restaurant operator, has triumphantly returned to profitability, according to its latest financial disclosures. With e … read more

​Government Escalates Penalties for Employing Illegal Workers

Posted by Emily on 14th Feb 2024       Reading Time:

In a bold move to combat illegal employment, the government has significantly increased fines for businesses caught employing illegal workers. Starting from 13 February, the penalties have surged t … read more

​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