Insights - Posts - Ceres Shop

The Future of Palm Oil: From Small Farms to National Compliance

Posted by Stelios on 6th Jan 2025

Palm oil is a key ingredient in our everyday lives – a popular frying medium for fish and chips to the pastry in pies, cleaning products, animal feed, and even biofuel-powering cars and lorries. Yet … read more

Examining KFC’s Reversal on the Better Chicken Commitment: A Blow to Animal Welfare Progress?

Posted by Stelios on 26th Nov 2024

KFC’s decision to abandon its pledge to phase out fast-growing chickens by 2026 has reignited discussions about animal welfare and industry accountability. The company had committed to the Better C … read more

Could Business Rates Reform Reshape the High Street?

Posted by Emily on 20th Nov 2024

The UK government has introduced draft legislation to permanently reduce business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties starting in 2026. This unprecedented measure aims to al … read more

The Snowball Tax Case: A Look Back at the 2014 VAT Ruling

Posted by Emma on 20th Oct 2024

In 2014, two iconic Scottish confectionery companies, Lees of Scotland and Tunnock’s, found themselves at the heart of an unexpected legal battle. The question? Whether their beloved Snowballs—fluf … read more

HMRC Triumphs in KFC VAT Dispute Over Dip Pots

Posted by Stelios on 19th Oct 2024

In a recent case, the First-Tier Tribunal (FTT) upheld HMRC’s decision that dip pots sold with KFC takeaway meal deals form part of a single, VATable supply of hot food. The ruling followed Queensc … read more

Autumn Budget 2024: Which Tax Rises Could Hit Businesses and Workers?

Posted by Stelios on 19th Oct 2024

As the Labour government prepares to reveal its Autumn Budget on October 30th, 2024, businesses and individuals are bracing for potential tax changes to close a £22 billion fiscal gap. With infl … read more

What Counts as Junk Food in the Upcoming UK Advert Ban

Posted by Emma on 18th Sep 2024

From October 2025, the UK will take a significant step toward addressing childhood obesity by banning online adverts for junk food. This new regulation will also apply to TV advertisements shown be … read more

The New Tipping Act: What You Need to Know

Posted by Emily on 13th Sep 2024

A significant change is horizon for workers in the UK’s hospitality and service industries. The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, set to come into force on 1 October 2024, aims to bring mor … read more

How IKEA and Costco Mastered Employee Retention

Posted by Emily on 7th Jul 2024

IKEA is known for some eye-catching statistics. In a single year, it distributes 2.5 billion wooden dowels, the little sticks that hold its furniture together, and 50 million Allen keys. Over 25 ye … read more

How Labour's Election Win Could Transform Hospitality

Posted by Emily on 5th Jul 2024

Sir Keir Starmer has become the UK's first Labour Prime Minister since 2010, securing a significant majority with a landslide victory in the general election. With Labour holding a parliamentary ma … read more

Keeping Your Company Handbook Up-to-Date: Why It Matters

Posted by Emma on 5th Jul 2024

Updating your company handbook regularly is crucial to ensure that your HR policies and procedures remain relevant and effective. Changes in case law, new legislation, and societal or technological … read more

Summary: The Labour Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

The Labour Party's 2024 manifesto is a detailed plan to transform the United Kingdom by addressing the many challenges its citizens face. Restoring Hope and Ending Conservative Chao … read more

Election Insights for Hospitality: What Each Party Offers

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

As the general election approaches, hospitality professionals must understand how each party's manifesto could impact their industry. Here's a breakdown of what the main political parties are promi … read more

Election Insights for Farming: What Each Party Offers

Posted by Emma on 20th Jun 2024

As the UK heads towards the 2024 General Election, each political party has unveiled its manifesto outlining what it plans to do for the farming sector if elected. Here’s a breakdown of the key com … read more

Summary: The Conservatives Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 11th Jun 2024

The Conservative Party's 2024 manifesto outlines a detailed vision for the future of Britain, focusing on economic growth, tax cuts, family support, education, national security, and more. Here's a … read more

Summary: The Liberal Democrat Manifesto for 2024

Posted by Emma on 10th Jun 2024

The Liberal Democrats have unveiled their manifesto for 2024, aiming to provide a fair deal for all Britons. This manifesto addresses various issues, from the economy and public services to climate … read more

Score Big with Your Customers: Promotions for Fish & Chip Shops During the UEFA Euro 2024

Posted by Emily on 10th Jun 2024

Football fever is sweeping the nation, and as a fish and chip shop owner, you have a golden opportunity to score big with your customers! The UEFA Euro 2024 championship is a time of excitement, ca … read more

Serving Britain: Creating Places Where People Want to Live, Work, and Invest

Posted by Emily on 10th Jun 2024

The UK hospitality sector is a cornerstone of the nation's economic and social fabric, generating £140 billion in economic activity and £54 billion in tax receipts annually. Employing 3.5 million p … read more

Sustainable Scampi: Separating Fact from Fiction

Posted by Stelios on 6th Jun 2024

Recent media reports have raised alarms about the environmental impact of scampi fishing, prompting calls for a detailed investigation. The claims in the complaint have caused concern among co … read more

Mastering Customer Interaction in Your Fish & Chip Shop

Posted by Emma on 1st Jun 2024

In the fast-paced food takeaway industry, competition is fierce, and customer expectations are higher than ever. One crucial element makes all the difference: how you approach and engage your walk- … read more

Labour vs Conservatives: Key Policies Leading Up to the UK General Election

Posted by Emma on 26th May 2024

On a rainy May afternoon in Whitehall, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak surprised many by announcing a general election for July 4. This decision was influenced by a recent slowdown in inflation to just … read more

Unraveling the Dine-and-Dash Dilemma in UK Restaurants

Posted by Emily on 19th May 2024

The disturbing trend of dine-and-dash is not merely an inconvenience but a burgeoning crisis threatening the viability of the UK's hospitality sector. It begs the question: Does economic hardship d … read more

Keep It Simple: The Art of Streamlining Your Business with KISS

Posted by Emily on 18th May 2024

In the bustling business world, simplicity can be your most effective strategy. The "Keep It Simple, Stupid" (KISS) principle champions straightforwardness and clarity in every aspect of operations … read more

Norwegian Seafood Council's Health, Innovation, and Sustainability Trends for 2024

Posted by Emily on 15th May 2024

In 2024, the global seafood industry, guided by insights from the Norwegian Seafood Council, is poised at a transformative juncture, driven by dynamic trends that intertwine health, technology, and … read more

Comprehensive Allergen Management in Food Businesses

Posted by Emma on 23rd Apr 2024

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

Why Food Photography Is Crucial for Your Business

Posted by Stelios on 15th Apr 2024

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

The B Corp Blueprint: Elevating Business Standards in the UK

Posted by Emma on 7th Apr 2024

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

Enhancing Customer Experience in Fast-Food: The Rise of Self-Service Kiosks

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2024

In the fast-paced world of fish and chips, quick service and fast-casual dining, the significance of customer experience cannot be overstated. While the quality of food and service remains paramoun … read more

Barclays Consumer Report: Understanding the UK's Shift to Experience-Based Spending

Posted by Emily on 30th Dec 2023

In the face of escalating living expenses, Britons are recalibrating their spending patterns, emphasising value and experiences over material purchases. Platdujour, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Com … read more

Meatless Mandates: How UK Councils Are Steering Away from Animal Products and Consumer Rights.

Posted by Emily on 14th Dec 2023

Councils in the UK are at a pivotal point, deciding between exclusive plant-based menus and a more inclusive approach that embraces all food sources. This debate goes beyond personal dietary choice … read more

Fowl Play? Examining the UK's Reluctance to Adopt the Better Chicken Commitment

Posted by Emma on 1st Dec 2023

A significant shift in welfare standards has been brewing in the UK's chicken industry. Yet, despite pressing concerns and concerted efforts by activists, the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC) has no … read more

McDonald's Strategic Investment in Dark Kitchens Drives Revenue Growth

Posted by Stelios on 27th Nov 2023

In the ever-evolving world of fast food, adaptability is critical to staying competitive. McDonald's, the global fast-food giant, has recognised the importance of catering to the changing needs of … read more

Frozen at sea prices down - but is price the whole story?

Posted by Emily on 13th Nov 2023

Some fish & chip shop owners have told us the price of frozen sea fish has halved since the beginning of the year, but is that the case for all? We look at the broader picture. While prices of … 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

Recyclable, Compostable, Biodegradable: What's the Difference?

Posted by Emily on 12th Oct 2023

A regular takeaway coffee cup can linger for 30 years before breaking down, and some single-use cutlery might last 1,000 years! There's been a growing urgency to find alternatives to non-recyclable … read more

Understanding 'Wishcycling' and How to Recycle Properly

Posted by Emily on 12th Oct 2023

Recycling can be somewhat perplexing, especially with the differing rules on what can and cannot be put in our recycling bins. This guide aims to shed some light on the issue, focusing on the conce … read more

Dealing with Mental Health at Work

Posted by Emily on 9th Oct 2023

Mental health isn't the easiest topic to deal with, but it's becoming increasingly important to be mindful of your staff's well-being at work as part of your duty of care. But it’s not always obvio … read more

The Business Case for Above-Average Salaries

Posted by Emily on 7th Oct 2023

While money isn't the sole motivator for job performance, it undeniably plays a pivotal role. Making decisions about employee pay is a nuanced task for business leaders and HR professionals. Fact … read more

Umami-Rich Ingredients for a Next-Level Pantry

Posted by Stelios on 23rd Sep 2023

Umami is the hard-to-describe flavour that elevates our cooking, earning its title as one of the five fundamental tastes. Coined by Japanese biochemist Kikunae Ikeda over a century ago, it epi … read more

The Truth About Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Posted by Stelios on 23rd Sep 2023

Have you ever wondered about MSG? Is it truly a headache-inducing culprit? Should you incorporate it in your recipes? Well, let me take you on a journey, backed by science, to discover the truth. … read more

Sizzle, Not Fizzle: Unlock the Power of Regular Fryer Boil Outs

Posted by Emily on 6th Sep 2023

Why Should You Prioritise a Boil Out? We've all been there, haven't we? When you acquire something new, you vow to maintain it impeccably, only for your good intentions to slip away over time. … read more

Rising Food Prices in India Have Global Implications

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Sep 2023

India is grappling with a steep rise in food prices due to adverse climate conditions like the driest August in over 100 years. The inflation rate for food items has soared above 11%, causing domes … read more

Managing Foam in Frying: Strategies for Oil Management

Posted by Emily on 27th Aug 2023

Have you ever wondered about the causes of foaming and how it can be prevented? We'll explain several reasons why your frying oil might be prone to foaming and offer some frying tips to ensure your … read more

The Dark Side of the Gig Economy: A UK Perspective

Posted by Emily on 26th Aug 2023

In today's world of instant gratification, we're spoilt for choice. Fancy a late-night kebab or an impromptu taxi ride? There's an app for that. No more waiting, no more hassle. But have you ever p … read more

Study Questions Eco-Friendliness of Paper Straws Due to Presence of 'Forever Chemicals'

Posted by Emily on 25th Aug 2023

Belgian researchers have warned that paper drinking straws, often touted as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic, might not be as environmentally benign as believed. The study found that 18 out o … read more

More than Meets the Ear: How Sound Serves Up Success

Posted by Stelios on 14th Aug 2023

Ever walked into an empty house, workplace or eatery and felt something was missing? Beyond the absence of furniture, the sound has an unmistakable emptiness - a stark, echoing tone. Yet, introduce so … read more

The Ceres Super Absorbent Cloths Revolution: Making Waves in the Kitchen!

Posted by Emily on 10th Aug 2023

When you think of promoting the consistency of your fish and chips, secret batter recipes or premium fish cuts might come to mind. But the unsung hero? Ceres Super Absorbent Cloths. Why W … read more

Beyond the Green: Marrowfat Peas VS Garden Peas

Posted by Emily on 10th Aug 2023

Every so often, I stumble upon mushy peas on the internet, but they seem more like crafty doppelgängers. They're overly green, excessively sleek, and just too polished. To set the record straight, … read more

Bright Future Ahead: A Guide to Youth Employment in UK Restaurants

Posted by Emily on 8th Aug 2023

Many seek clarity regarding the permissible age for employing young individuals in a fish and chip shop and the tasks they're allowed to undertake. The confusion arises due to strict bylaws, which … read more

The Value of Generosity: Enhancing Employee Loyalty

Posted by Emily on 7th Aug 2023

What is your most invaluable asset? Mull it over, and you’ll realise it’s your employees. Imagine your business without them, and you’ll soon find it untenable. While the rising costs are weig … read more

Finger-Licking Profits: The Business Behind the Chicken Tenders Boom

Posted by Emily on 3rd Aug 2023

The Humble Beginning Chicken's reign in fast food menus is no secret. It's been celebrated in the form of nuggets and sandwiches for decades. But there's a new champion in town: the ubiquitous ch … read more

The VAT Conundrum: Greggs, Fish & Chips, and the Battle for Tax Fairness

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Aug 2023

The complexity of the VAT system, particularly concerning hot food, often perplexes even seasoned business people. This issue frequently surfaces, especially in discussions around Greggs PLC and ot … read more

Tap Into Hidden Talent: Hire Ex-Offenders

Posted by Emily on 1st Aug 2023

Are you looking to fill a position with a skilled, enthusiastic employee? Your search might have taken you to online advertisements, in-house referrals, or the Jobcentre. But there's an untapped re … read more

The Power of Regular Fryer Boil Outs

Posted by Stelios on 27th Jul 2023

We all love the tantalising aroma and satisfying crunch of freshly fried fish & chips. Whether it's crispy chicken tenders, calamari, or mouthwatering tempura prawns, there's something undeniably d … read more

Mastering Cash Flow: The Lifeblood of Your Business

Posted by Stelios on 22nd Jul 2023

Cash flow is often referred to as the lifeblood of a business, and rightly so. It encompasses all forms of payment received at the point of purchase, be it coins, notes, or card payments. It's the … read more

Understanding Acrylamide: What You Need to Know

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

Acrylamide is a natural chemical that forms when we cook starchy foods like bread and potatoes at high temperatures for a long time. When we fry, bake, roast, toast, or grill these foods above 120° … read more

Maximising Profits: The Art of Upselling and Cross-Selling

Posted by Stelios on 21st Jul 2023

In the dynamic world of sales, the art of upselling and cross-selling unlocks the gateway to unparalleled profit potential. These powerful techniques, though diverse in execution, share a common pr … read more

Ceres Natural Degreaser: The Powerhouse Cleaner You've Been Waiting For!

Posted by Stelios on 20th Jul 2023

Are you tired of struggling with stubborn grease and grime? Look no further! Ceres Natural Degreaser is the ultimate solution for turbocharged cleaning, delivering powerful results while being 10 … read more

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Fish & Chips: Knowing the Enemies of Frying Oil

Posted by Stelios on 15th Jul 2023

Imagine a world without the irresistible crunch of fish and chips. Unthinkable. Behind every mouthwatering bite lies a crucial ingredient: frying oil in impeccable condition. The quality of our favour … read more

Discover the Versatility of Ceres Natural Bicarbonate of Soda

Posted by Emily on 14th Jul 2023

Your pantry is home to a multitude of products, but among them lies a proper all-purpose solution for various catering predicaments. Ceres Natural Bicarbonate of Soda, with its affordability, environm … read more

Spring Budget 2023

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2023

As we predicted, there were no major reforms in Jeremy Hunt’s first-ever Spring Budget as Chancellor that would directly help the hospitality industry, either in terms of a VAT cut or even a hint of a … read more

Breaking down barriers for disabled workers

Posted by Emily on 18th Mar 2023

The government made it clear in its Spring Budget earlier this month that it is serious about getting people back into work, announcing a range of measures totalling £3.5 billion over five years to … read more

Ramp up your recruitment drive

Posted by Emily on 7th Jul 2022

While all business sectors are currently undergoing a staffing crisis, the hospitality industry is bearing the brunt with staff shortages reaching critical levels. According to recent ONS figures … read more

Tips for tough times

Posted by Stelios on 19th May 2022

It might feel at the moment that everything is stacked against you. Price increases on core ingredients are coming thick and fast, while problems with product availability are an increasing worry f … read more

10 Tips for a stress-free national fish & chip day

Posted by Emily on 4th Apr 2022

Mmm fish and chips at the seaside, photo courtesy of the Magpie Cafe in Whitby. Friday 27th May 2022 marks the seventh National Fish & Chip Day and it’s a day that you should be shout … read more

Positive Thinking

Posted by Stelios on 1st Feb 2022

I don’t know if I’m alone in thinking this – and I hope I’m not – but I feel quite optimistic about 2022. The scrapping of most Covid measures across the UK recently has felt like a massive step fo … read more

Lifting Lunchtime Trade

Posted by Stelios on 21st Nov 2021

Lunchtime trade has taken a kicking over the last 18 months as Covid had people working from home and turning to homemade lunches or treating the family in the evening instead. The grey pound, whic … read more

Navigating the Mind: Keeping the U.K.’s Hospitality Industry Happy and Healthy

Posted by Emily on 1st May 2021

A Fresh Start As cafés, restaurants, and hotels across the U.K. opened their doors again, the excitement of returning to work was tinged with anxiety. Many employees returned after nearly a ye … read more

Delivery Aggregators Unwrapped – 2021 Update

Posted by Stelios on 2nd Mar 2021

The world is significantly transforming how people buy and consume food. Modern consumers are more likely to order fast food while sitting at home watching Bridgerton on Netflix than they are to co … read more

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