Blog - Page 8 - Ceres Shop

The Festive Tale of Panettone's Charming Journey to Britain

Posted by Emma on 12th Nov 2023

Once upon a time, in the bustling Christmas markets of London, nestled among the twinkling lights and festive cheer, a delightful Italian treat began to make its mark. Panettone, a sweet and airy b … read more

The Ingenious Geometry Behind Pringles' Unique Crunch

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023

The iconic Pringles crisp, renowned for its addictive crunch and flavour, holds a secret in its form – a marvel of engineering: the hyperbolic paraboloid shape. "Once you pop, the fun don't stop, … read more

Domino's Pizza Group Experiences Decrease in Delivery Orders Amid Rising Cost of Living

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023

On November 9, Domino's Pizza Group announced a decrease in meal deliveries for the third quarter. This downturn is attributed to customers reducing their orders due to the escalating cost of livin … read more

McDonald's UK Chief Faces Parliamentary Inquiry Over Workplace Culture Concerns

Posted by Emily on 10th Nov 2023

The head of McDonald's in the UK, Alistair Macrow, has been summoned to appear before Members of Parliament (MPs) to address mounting concerns about a troubling work environment at the fast-food gi … read more

Seeds of Strategy: Russia's Agricultural Exports in the Wake of Western Sanctions

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023

In a recent dialogue in Kazakhstan, Russian leader Vladimir Putin emphasised the importance of enhancing transport routes for wheat and fertilisers within Asia. This strategic move comes as Russia … read more

JD Wetherspoon Raises a Glass to Increasing Sales Amid Energy Concerns

Posted by Emma on 10th Nov 2023

JD Wetherspoon is celebrating a boost in sales, outshining the general market with its competitive pricing strategy. The company announced a 9.5 per cent uplift in like-for-like sales for the 14 we … read more

Taxing Times: Alcohol Duty Debate Heats Up Pre-Autumn Statement

Posted by Emily on 9th Nov 2023

The beverage sector is calling on the Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, to honour his commitment to reducing inflation by scrapping the proposed hike in alcohol duty in his forthcoming Autumn Statement. … read more

Expansion on the Menu: Domino's to Trial Uber Eats Service

Posted by Emily on 9th Nov 2023

Domino's Pizza Group is set to experiment with a new collaboration with the delivery service Uber Eats in the upcoming year to bolster its expansion efforts. Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via … read more

The Top 20 Contenders for Britain's Best Fish and Chip Takeaway in 2024

Posted by Emma on 9th Nov 2023

The esteemed National Fish and Chip Awards have unveiled the top 20 fish and chip shops vying for the prestigious Takeaway of the Year category title. After rigorous evaluation, considering fa … read more

M&S: A Profit Turnaround as Strategy Yields Results

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023

Marks & Spencer has delivered a robust financial update that's turning heads in the business community. The figures for the fiscal year's first half are striking: a 56% surge in pre-tax profits … read more

Salmonella Outbreak Attributed to Kebabs After Fatality in Austria: Further Cases Anticipated

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023

In a concerning development across the European Union, nine individuals have been hospitalised, and one has succumbed following an outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis ST11. The European Food Safety … read more

Ferrero's Path to a Greener Future: Navigating New EU Deforestation Laws

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023

Choosing products that don't harm forests should be the norm, not an option. That's what Ferrero Group believes as it gears up for the new EU rules to stop deforestation. Ferrero, the company behin … read more

Suspension of Irish Beef Exports to China Following BSE Case

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023

The brisk trade of Irish beef to China has come to a sudden standstill. The cause? The emergence of an atypical BSE case in a cow within Ireland's borders. The case was confirmed following stringen … read more

End of an Era: The Caramac Bar Bids Farewell After 64 Sweet Years

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023

Devotees of the classic Caramac are expressing profound disappointment following Nestlé's confirmation that the caramel-flavoured bar will be retired after a 64-year legacy. Nestlé has acknowl … read more

Bitter Bite: Patisserie Valerie's Collapse Leads to Long-Awaited 2026 Trial

Posted by Emily on 8th Nov 2023

The unfolding saga of the once-celebrated high street favourite, Patisserie Valerie, has turned towards a lengthier courtroom drama, with the key figures accused of fraud now set to stand trial in … read more

UK Faces Critical Shortage of Food Safety Officers

Posted by Emma on 8th Nov 2023

According to recent research findings, the UK's hospitality sector and its customers could be threatened due to an alarming shortage of food safety officers The latest yearly review by the Foo … read more

A Chronicle of Fish & Chips

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

To say Mike Pili knows a story or two about fish and chips would be a vast understatement. As he shares a host of anecdotes from more than 60 years of experience in the trade, we can’t help bu … read more

Millions could get a 'huge pay increase' next year in 2024

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

Next year, many could see a significant boost in their pay. The Chancellor, Jeremy Hunt, has hinted that the national living wage might increase to £11 per hour by April 2024. However, recent proje … read more

Accusations Levelled at Coca-Cola, Danone, and Nestlé Over Environmental Claims

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

Coca-Cola, Danone, and Nestlé are facing allegations of falsely advertising their plastic water bottles as "100% recycled." These claims have prompted a consumer watchdog alongside environmental or … read more

Burger King Adopts Touchscreen Ordering

Posted by Emma on 7th Nov 2023

Burger King is updating its ordering process, bringing touchscreen kiosks to modernise customer interactions. This move indicates a significant shift towards digital in the fast food industry. … read more

Beyond Meat to Cut 10% of Staff Following Sales Downturn

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

Beyond Meat, a leading plant-based food manufacturer, is set to cut its workforce by 10% after its third-quarter sales fell short of expectations. Pascal Shirley, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimed … read more

China Ramps Up Wheat Imports Amid Crop Shortfalls

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

China has increased its wheat imports, securing roughly 2 million tonnes from Australia's new crop and an additional 2.5 million tonnes from France. This move counters the severe damage to nearly a … read more

The British Hospitality Sector's Appeal for Business Rate Support

Posted by Emily on 7th Nov 2023

The UK's beloved local pubs and hospitality venues stand at a critical juncture, facing an unprecedented financial challenge. As relentless cost increases threaten the heart of British social life, … read more

McDonald's Israel Goodwill Gesture Sparks International Debate

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023

A gesture of goodwill has become a flashpoint for controversy among McDonald's franchisees in the Middle East and Asia following the brand's Israeli branch's decision to donate meals to Israeli hos … read more

Carlsberg CEO Condemns 'Theft' of Russian Business Amidst Exit Challenges

Posted by Emma on 2nd Nov 2023

The chief executive of the Danish beer maker Carlsberg has accused Moscow of "stealing" the company's Russian operations. This follows the confiscation of Carlsberg's assets in Russia in July, n … read more

Protest Involving Live Mice at Birmingham McDonald's Restaurants Sparks Investigation

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023

McDonald's has issued a stern denouncement following a series of protests at their Birmingham outlets, where live mice - stained in the colours of the Palestinian flag - were released by individual … read more

Top 10 Shortlist for the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year Award

Posted by Emily on 2nd Nov 2023

Following a three-year interlude, the prestigious Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year category is poised for a triumphant comeback at the 2024 National Fish and Chip Awards. In the wake of nu … read more

French Towns vs. the Big Mac

Posted by Emily on 1st Nov 2023

The residents of Sérignan-du-Comtat, a picturesque village in Provence, were appalled to discover this summer that their local restaurant was about to become a McDonald’s. More than 800 of them hav … read more

Leon Restaurants to Launch within Asda Stores Following £2 Billion Acquisition

Posted by Emma on 1st Nov 2023

Asda has assumed control of the Leon restaurant chain following a £2 billion transaction to purchase a substantial portion of its affiliate, EG Group's UK operations. Leon Restaurant, Old Compton … read more

May your Christmas - and New Year - be merry and bright!

Posted by Emily on 31st Oct 2023

Christmas is just around the corner and although it can be tempting to leave your festive marketing until the last knockings, getting your skates on early will always pay off, especially this year … read more

Byron's establishments dwindle to single digits after more shutdowns

Posted by Emily on 31st Oct 2023

The embattled burger brand Byron has witnessed its number of branches diminish to a mere few after a series of recent closures. Malcolmxl5, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons The company … read more

Golden Returns: McDonald’s Posts Impressive Quarterly Rise

Posted by Emily on 30th Oct 2023

McDonald’s has exceeded market expectations in terms of both profit and revenue for the third quarter. Nextarity2, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons The company disclosed profits of $3.19 … read more

Point of View - Response to Jan Moir's Daily Mail Tom Kerridge Article

Posted by Stelios on 29th Oct 2023

I wanted to address misconceptions in Jan Moir's Daily Mail piece on Tom Kerridge's Harrods venture. The general public has misconceptions about what makes excellent fish & chips, and this oft … read more

Unravelling the Mystery of Nitrates in Your Food

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023

Nitrates often conjure images of chemistry experiments or agricultural fertilisers rather than something you'd find on your dinner plate. However, these compounds are more than scientific curiositi … read more

Easy Guide to TUPE

Posted by Emma on 29th Oct 2023

TUPE is like a safety net for workers when another business takes over the company they work for. It makes sure that employees don't just lose their jobs or rights because of this change. Brea … read more

Behind the Numbers: Mastering The Balance Sheet

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023

In the UK, businesses must prepare and submit balance sheets annually. But what exactly is a balance sheet, and why is it crucial? This easy-read guide breaks it down for you. What Is a Balanc … read more

The Disappearing British Pub: A Crisis in the UK's Social Landscape

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023

The British pub scene, a cornerstone of the nation's cultural heritage, is threatened like never before. For the first time since we've begun keeping track, the UK is home to fewer than 100,000 est … read more

UK Urged to Restrict Sugar Production to Combat Obesity

Posted by Emily on 29th Oct 2023

Health and environmental experts have urged the government to limit the United Kingdom's sugar output to address the nation's obesity epidemic, as detailed in a new collaborative report. Alupu … read more

Climate Crisis and Crime: A Perfect Storm Brews in the Olive Oil Industry

Posted by Emily on 28th Oct 2023

In recent months, the olive oil industry has faced a multifaceted crisis. Not only are production levels plummeting due to extreme weather conditions, but a spate of thefts in producer countries li … read more

Five Guys Embark on Major Expansion: 140 New UK Outlets Projected

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023

In a strategic business move, Five Guys is set to expand its UK market presence significantly. John Eckbert, Chief Executive, has outlined a plan for the renowned American burger chain to establish … read more

Over 1,000 Cats Saved from Slaughter in China

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023

In China, police have liberated over 1,000 cats destined for slaughter and fraudulent sale as pork or mutton, as per reports by media affiliated with the state. The force, responding to inform … read more

KFC Temporarily Closes Lesotho Outlets Amid South African Bird Flu Crisis

Posted by Emily on 27th Oct 2023

KFC has declared the closure of all its outlets in Lesotho following a severe bird flu outbreak in the adjacent nation of South Africa. Gafirita jean d'amour Uwimana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimed … read more

AG Barr Welcomes Tropical Flavour with £12.3M Rio Purchase

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

AG Barr, the creators of Irn-Bru, are introducing a tropical twist to their expanding collection following the acquisition of the soft drink brand Rio in a deal worth £12.3 million. Image Sour … read more

Heineken's UK summer beer sales subdued by surging prices and inclement weather

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

Global sales volumes witnessed a 4.2% decline as prices escalated by 9.5%, contributing to a 2% sales increase, reaching €9.6bn. Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Co … read more

Will Pizza Express Owner Outbid Apollo? Inside the Tense Takeover Struggle for Wagamama's TRG

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

The owner of Pizza Express, Wheel Topco, is potentially setting its sights on a takeover bid for Wagamama, currently under the umbrella of The Restaurant Group (TRG). Stephen Shaw at English W … read more

Unilever Responds to a Washed-Out Ice Cream Season

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

This summer witnessed a steep decline in ice cream sales, partly owing to inclement weather, reports the producer of Ben & Jerry's and Magnum, Unilever. The company, custodian to other familiar … read more

No More Finger Lickin' Goods on Deliveroo as KFC Opts Out

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

The renowned fried chicken franchise KFC and delivery powerhouse Deliveroo have called time on their collaboration, unable to find common ground on commission rates. Consequently, from today, 26 Oc … read more

Revel in the Crispy Triumphs: Top 10 Contenders for the "From Field to Frier" Honour – National Fish and Chip Awards 2024

Posted by Emily on 26th Oct 2023

The stage is set to celebrate the unsung heroes behind every scrumptious bite of Britain's beloved fish and chips. Ten stellar establishments have risen, battering away fierce competition to secure th … read more

Ronald McDonald: The Making of a Marketing Phenomenon

Posted by Emily on 25th Oct 2023

Dive into the captivating history of how Ronald McDonald, a mere mascot, climbed the ranks to become a legend in marketing and branding. Few figures have imprinted themselves into cultural consciou … read more

A Slice of History: The Saga of McDonald's Ill-Fated McPizza

Posted by Emily on 24th Oct 2023

Do you remember when McDonald's tried to tantalise our taste buds with slices of cheesy goodness? Yes, we're talking about the legendary McDonald's pizza, albeit not so successful. The McPizza saga … read more

Ceres Media Training Day a success

Posted by Emily on 24th Oct 2023

We did it! Our first Ceres Media Training Day took place yesterday (Monday 23rd October) at The Doubletree Hilton hotel in Coventry and we were astounded with the turnout. Over 60 fish and chip sho … read more

Whitbread sees big profit rise as Premier Inn serves more customers

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

Whitbread, the company behind Premier Inn hotels, is seeing a big boost in profits. They've had a 30% increase in the past six months. Why? Well, their Premier Inn chain is doing well, mainly becau … read more

McDonald’s Tense Balancing Act Amid Middle East Turmoil

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

McDonald's, an iconic American fast food chain, has been embroiled in the political turmoil stirred by the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas. This unexpected entanglement arose after McDonal … read more

Pret A Manger is expanding in the US with a new partnership

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

Pret has shifted most of its US business into a joint venture with Dallas Holdings. This deal involves Dallas taking over the running of 50 Pret stores located in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washin … read more

Deliveroo on the Rebound: Recent Figures Signal Turnaround in Fortunes

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

The UK's fondness for doorstep food delivery is returning, propelling a resurgence in sales for one of the foremost entities in the sector. Deliveroo, headquartered in London and operational across … read more

Higher prices take a toll on Nestlé

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

The global surge in consumer prices has significantly impacted spending, contributing to slower sales growth at Nestlé, the world's largest food and beverages company. This slowdown comes in light … read more

Just Eat Experiences Dip in Takeaway Orders as Diners Flock Back to Restaurants

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

Just Eat Takeaway has noted a decline in food deliveries with the resurgence of customers dining in restaurants. In the quarter leading up to September's end, the platform registered 235.3 million … read more

Digital Transformation Takes Centre Stage as McDonald's Innovates to Stay Ahead

Posted by Emily on 21st Oct 2023

Despite the prevalent inflation fears that coloured 2022, one American fast-food giant, McDonald's, seems to have found a solution. In October, McDonald's reported robust financial results for … read more

Udderly Sustainable: McDonald's and FrieslandCampina Shaping the Future of Dairy Farming

Posted by Emily on 18th Oct 2023

McDonald's and FrieslandCampina, two major players in the food industry, are joining forces to tackle climate change by cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions within the dairy farming sector. … read more

New Urgency for Banning 'Forever Chemicals' in Food Packaging

Posted by Emily on 18th Oct 2023

The BEUC, a notable European consumer group, is pushing hard for a rapid ban on 'forever chemicals' used in food containers. This action comes after alarming findings that these chemicals are wides … read more

UK's Post-Brexit: Redefining Wine with Relaxed Alcohol Rules

Posted by Emily on 18th Oct 2023

The UK government is set to simplify wine rules after Brexit, especially for low-alcohol wines. Right now, a drink must have at least 8.5% alcohol to be called "wine" due to old EU laws. Drinks wit … read more

Tip Tensions: Miller & Carter's Shared Earnings Approach Stirs Staff and Union Concerns

Posted by Emily on 18th Oct 2023

The steakhouse chain Miller & Carter is facing criticism over a new policy that affects waiting staff's tips to supplement the wages of chefs and other kitchen employees. Simon Cobb, CC0, via … read more