News - Posts - Ceres Shop

A Growing Divide: Could the EU Ban US Soybean Imports?

Posted by Stelios on 28th Feb 2025

The European Union is exploring the possibility of restricting imports of food products that do not meet its regulatory standards, a move that could include a ban on US-grown soybeans. The proposed me … read more

Bonchon’s Signature Crunch Seeks a UK Home: Franchise Partner Wanted

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025

Bonchon, the celebrated Korean fried chicken brand, is actively seeking a franchise partner to introduce its globally renowned concept to the United Kingdom. Established in Busan, South Korea, in 2002 … read more

Pubs and Restaurants Reel as January Spending Slump Bites

Posted by Emma on 27th Feb 2025

In a stark reversal of December’s festive buoyancy, Britain’s pubs, bars, and restaurants faced a sobering start to 2025. Like-for-like sales across these establishments plummeted by 1.3% … read more

Yarm Road Fish and Chips Crowned Best in Britain at National Awards

Posted by Emma on 26th Feb 2025

In a dazzling tribute to Britain’s beloved fish and chip trade, Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington, County Durham, has clinched the coveted Takeaway of the Year title at the National Fish &a … read more

Starbucks Overhauls Strategy: Job Cuts, Menu Simplification, and a New Vision for Efficiency

Posted by Emily on 25th Feb 2025

Starbucks, the global coffee giant, is making significant changes to its operations, cutting 1,100 corporate jobs and simplifying its menu to reinvigorate its flagging business, particularly in its ho … read more

Restaurant Giants Demand Action: Protect Delivery Drivers from Rising Abuse

Posted by Emma on 25th Feb 2025

Leading restaurant and retail chains, including Dishoom, Pho, and Pizza Pilgrims, have urged the UK government to extend legal protections to delivery drivers, highlighting a 28% surge in abusive inci … read more

A New Era for Food Delivery: Prosus Acquires Just Eat Takeaway.com in Bold European Move

Posted by Emily on 24th Feb 2025

In a landmark transaction poised to reshape the European food delivery landscape, Prosus, a Netherlands-based technology investment group, has agreed to acquire Just Eat Takeaway.com for €4.1 bil … read more

Five Guys Faces £4m Tax Hit: Jobs and High Streets Hang in Balance

Posted by Emma on 23rd Feb 2025

John Eckbert, chief executive of Five Guys in the UK and Europe, has issued a dire warning: Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Budget will slam his burger chain with a £4 million cost increase, dr … read more

From Suffering to Stunning: The Push for Prawn Welfare in British Supermarkets

Posted by Emma on 22nd Feb 2025

In a significant step forward for animal welfare, Waitrose, one of Britain’s leading supermarkets, has pledged to end the inhumane slaughter of king prawns across its supply chain by the end of … read more

From Boycotts to Burgers: McDonald's Navigates a Turbulent Market

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025

McDonald's, the world's largest restaurant chain, has defied expectations with a modest yet significant recovery in global sales, buoyed by robust performances in international markets. For the three … read more

From Sandwiches to Spuds: Subway Tests a New Direction in the UK

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025

Subway has launched a trial of customisable jacket potatoes, branded as "Spudway," in 170 UK stores, beginning on 19 February 2025 and running until 15 April. This move expands the fast-food chain's o … read more

A Levy Too Far? Burnham’s Vision for Manchester Under Fire

Posted by Emily on 22nd Feb 2025

In a bold move that has ignited fierce debate, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has proposed replacing the city’s voluntary visitor charge with a mandatory tourist tax. The announc … read more

Fast Food Giant Aims for 600 AI-Driven Locations by Year-End

Posted by Emma on 14th Feb 2025

Wendy’s is accelerating its adoption of artificial intelligence in its drive-thru operations, with plans to expand its AI-powered ordering system to as many as 600 locations across the United St … read more

£50,000 Loan Fraud Lands Gillingham Businessman in Extended Bankruptcy

Posted by Emma on 14th Feb 2025

A former Chinese takeaway owner in Gillingham has been banned from acting as a company director after wrongfully claiming a £50,000 Bounce Back Loan during the Covid pandemic. The 55-year-old Mr … read more

Southern Comfort in the Capital: Slim Chickens Doubles Down on London

Posted by Emma on 12th Feb 2025

Slim Chickens, the American fast-casual fried chicken chain operated in the UK by Boparan Restaurant Group, is set to make a significant mark in London with two major openings next month. The brand's … read more

Pret A Manger Backtracks on Coffee Subscription Hike – What Changed?

Posted by Emily on 12th Feb 2025

Pret A Manger has reversed its decision to double the Club Pret coffee subscription cost, opting to maintain the current £5-per-month fee instead of raising it to &poun … read more

Joe & the Juice Fined £95,000 for Serious Hygiene Breaches

Posted by Emma on 10th Feb 2025

Two central London branches of Joe & the Juice have been fined a total of £95,000 after inspections uncovered serious hygiene violations, including mouse infestations. The café chain' … read more

McDonald's "Healthier Lifestyles" Claims Under Scrutiny in Planning Appeals

Posted by Emma on 7th Feb 2025

McDonald's has repeatedly overturned local authority attempts in the United Kingdom to prevent it from opening new branches, insisting that it promotes "healthier lifestyles" and offers nutritious men … read more

Repeated Food Hygiene Failures Lead to Court Penalties

Posted by Emma on 6th Feb 2025

A tandoori restaurant in Harlington, London, has been ordered to pay more than £22,000 in fines after an inspection uncovered a severe cockroach infestation. Heathrow Tandoori Limited and its ma … read more

National Fish & Chip Award Winners to Embark on Exclusive Norwegian Seafood Tour

Posted by Emma on 1st Feb 2025

For more than a decade, the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), in collaboration with the Norwegian Frozen at Sea group, has hosted an exclusive educational trip to Norway for the National Fish and Chip … read more

Loungers Shareholders Greenlight £354m Fortress Takeover

Posted by Emma on 31st Jan 2025

Loungers plc is on the brink of a significant transformation after shareholders overwhelmingly approved a £354.4 million acquisition by Fortress Investment Group. The deal, which will take the popul … read more

Director Disqualified After Overstating Turnover to Secure £50,000 Loan

Posted by Emma on 31st Jan 2025

A West London bakery owner has been banned from acting as a company director for ten years after fraudulently overstating his business's turnover to secure the maximum Covid Bounce Back Loan. Azizu … read more

Coca-Cola and Sprite Cans Recalled Over Food Safety Concerns

Posted by Emma on 31st Jan 2025

A batch of Coca-Cola and Sprite cans distributed to cafes and restaurants across the UK has been recalled due to a potential food safety risk. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners confirmed that a “small … read more

Popeyes UK to Open Nearly One Restaurant a Week in 2025

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2025

Popeyes UK has set its sights on an aggressive expansion strategy, aiming to open almost one restaurant per week throughout 2025. The move is part of a broader effort to double its national presence … read more

UK Hospitality Industry Faces Wave of Closures Amid Mounting Costs

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2025

Britain's hospitality sector is teetering on the edge, with industry analysts warning of nearly 3,000 venue closures in 2025 if current trends persist. According to the latest Hospitality Market Mon … read more

Café Operator Sentenced After Allergy Death: A Preventable Tragedy?

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2025

A South London café operator has been fined £18,000 and sentenced to 100 hours of community service after a 12-year-old girl suffered a fatal allergic reaction due to cross-contamination in food pre … read more

Adapting to Change: Key Findings from the Latest Fish and Chips Market Report

Posted by Emma on 29th Jan 2025

According to data from Seafish Market Insights, the fish and chips sector is undergoing significant shifts. The latest report reveals a 21% decline in servings over the past year, equating to 36.6 mil … read more

Meet the Finalists for Young Fish Frier of the Year 2024

Posted by Emma on 28th Jan 2025

The stage is set for the eagerly awaited announcement of the Drywite Young Fish Frier of the Year, as the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) unveils the final four contenders in this year&rsquo … read more

Global Chip Shops Make Waves in the National Fish & Chip Awards Final

Posted by Emily on 27th Jan 2025

The highly anticipated International Fish and Chip Operator of the Year category at the National Fish & Chip Awards has announced its finalists, showcasing the global excellence that now surrounds … read more

Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure Brace for Business Rate Increases

Posted by Emma on 25th Jan 2025

Since April, property bills for retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses in England have been set to more than double due to changes in business rate relief, according to an analysis by property … read more

How Will the Glass Tax Impact Wine and Soft Drinks?

Posted by Emma on 25th Jan 2025

The UK's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme, set to come into force this year, aims to shift the financial responsibility for packaging waste management from local councils to producers. … read more

Sainsbury’s to Close Cafés, Streamline Operations, and Cut Costs

Posted by Emma on 23rd Jan 2025

Sainsbury’s has announced the closure of its remaining 61 in-store cafés, a move set to affect over 3,000 employees. The decision, described by the supermarket chain as “difficult,” is part of a bro … read more

Caffè Nero Brews Up Record-Breaking Christmas Sales

Posted by Emma on 21st Jan 2025

Caffè Nero has announced record-breaking results for its Christmas trading period in the UK, marking a significant milestone in its history. Over the five weeks between 25 November and 30 December 2 … read more

Hospitality Industry Braces for £1 Billion National Insurance Hike

Posted by Emma on 21st Jan 2025

The UK hospitality sector is preparing to shoulder a £1 billion cost as changes to National Insurance Contributions (NICs) come into effect this April. Approximately 774,000 workers in the industry … read more

Chick-fil-A Returns to the UK with Northern Ireland Openings

Posted by Emma on 17th Jan 2025

Chick-fil-A, the renowned US-based fast food chain, is returning to the UK market with two new restaurant openings in Northern Ireland. In partnership with Applegreen, a motorway service area operat … read more

Casual Dining in 2025: Recovery, Growth, and New Opportunities

Posted by Emma on 17th Jan 2025

The casual dining sector in the UK is entering a recovery phase in 2025, marked by renewed growth opportunities and strategic expansion, according to Christie & Co’s latest Business Outlook re … read more

National Awards Celebrate Sustainable Excellence

Posted by Emma on 16th Jan 2025

The National Fish & Chip Awards have revealed the top contenders in their prestigious Environmental and Sustainable Business category. They recognise industry leaders setting the bar for sustainab … read more

National Fish & Chip Awards Unveils New Community Engagement Category to Celebrate Local Heroes

Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025

The National Fish & Chip Awards, a prestigious ceremony that has long celebrated the best fish and chip businesses across the UK, is set to shine a light on a new category this year – the Co … read more

From California to Cardiff: Carl’s Jr Set to Open Its First UK Restaurant

Posted by Emma on 14th Jan 2025

The American fast-food giant Carl’s Jr is gearing up to open its first UK restaurant this April in Cardiff. Known for its chargrilled burgers, breaded chicken tenders, and creamy ice cream shakes, t … read more

Greggs Under Pressure: Sausage Roll Price Hike Sparks Consumer Outrage

Posted by Emma on 13th Jan 2025

Greggs, the UK’s largest bakery chain, is facing scrutiny after raising the price of its iconic sausage roll to £1.30—a 5p increase—amid growing pressures from rising wages, taxes, and food costs. T … read more

Edinburgh’s Proposed 5% Tourist Tax: A Boon or Burden for Hospitality Businesses?

Posted by Emma on 8th Jan 2025

Edinburgh City Council is preparing to implement a 5% tourist tax on accommodation costs, a move set to take effect in July 2026 if approved. The levy, aimed at generating up to £50 million annually … read more

Bounce Back Loan Fraud Lands London Restaurateur in Jail

Posted by Emma on 8th Jan 2025

A London-based restaurant owner has been ordered to repay £37,426 within three months after fraudulently obtaining a Covid Bounce Back Loan. The court ruled that failure to comply would result in an … read more

Who Will Claim the 2024 Quality Accreditation Champion Award?

Posted by Emma on 7th Jan 2025

The National Fish & Chip Awards, renowned as one of the most prestigious events in the fish and chip industry, has unveiled the finalists for the highly anticipated Quality Accreditation Cham … read more

McDonald’s CEO Reveals 29 Employees Fired Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Posted by Emma on 7th Jan 2025

McDonald’s UK has come under intense scrutiny following revelations of sexual harassment and other workplace misconduct across its outlets. Alistair Macrow, the company’s UK chief executive, disclos … read more

British Farmers Grapple with Worst Harvests in Decades

Posted by Stelios on 5th Jan 2025

Newly released data reveals that British farmers have endured one of the most challenging harvests since records began, raising serious concerns about the nation’s food security. The Department for … read more

Chick-fil-A’s Second Bite at the UK Market

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

Chick-fil-A, the American fast-food giant known for its chicken sandwiches, is attempting a comeback in the UK five years after its initial venture faced backlash over its historical ties to anti-LG … read more

Wingstop UK Sold to Sixth Street in Landmark £400M Deal

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

The UK arm of Wingstop, the popular fast-casual chicken wing chain, has been acquired by US investment firm Sixth Street in a deal valued at over £400 million. The sale marks a significant milestone … read more

Pizza Hut UK: A New Chapter on the Horizon?

Posted by Emma on 5th Jan 2025

The future of Pizza Hut’s dine-in restaurant business in the UK could soon take a new direction, with reports indicating that its largest franchise operator, Heart With Smart (HWS), is in advanced t … read more

From Red to Black: Wingstop UK's Remarkable Turnaround Amid Sale Speculations

Posted by Emma on 21st Dec 2024

In a striking turnaround, Wingstop UK has reported a robust pre-tax profit of £3.5 million for the financial year ending 31 March 2024, a significant recovery from a £2 million loss the previous yea … read more

KFC's Saucy Adventure: A New Spin on Fast Food

Posted by Emma on 21st Dec 2024

In a bold departure from its iconic red and white branding, KFC is set to unveil a new restaurant concept, Saucy, in Orlando, Florida, next Monday. This venture marks a significant shift for the fas … read more

Norfolk, Hampshire, and Stirlingshire Shops Lead the Pack in Digital Marketing at National Fish & Chip Awards

Posted by Emma on 19th Dec 2024

The National Fish & Chip Awards have announced the finalists for the Digital Marketing category, with three exceptional fish and chip shops showcasing their online prowess. Located in Norfolk, Ham … read more

The Future of Fast Food: Itsu's Tech-Driven Strategy Amid Wage Increases

Posted by Emily on 18th Dec 2024

In the bustling heart of London's Oxford Street, where the cost of doing business is sky-high, the founder of Itsu, Julian Metcalfe, is not one to shy away from challenges. The entrepreneur, who rev … read more

Who Will Claim the Title of Employee of the Year in the Fish & Chip Industry?

Posted by Emma on 17th Dec 2024

The National Fish & Chip Awards celebrates the outstanding contributions of three exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond in their roles within the fish and chip industry. These fin … read more

The Finalists for the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards Field to Frier Category

Posted by Emily on 12th Dec 2024

The race to claim the prestigious Field to Frier Award at the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards is heating up, with three exceptional fish and chip shops from across the UK securing their spots as … read more

Unions Push for Day-One Sick Pay Reform: Can Businesses Keep Up?

Posted by Emma on 6th Dec 2024

The government faces increasing pressure from trade unions to enhance Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), raising questions about the economic implications of such reforms. At the heart of the debate is whet … read more

Industry Award Reveals Best Chippies for Training and Development

Posted by Emma on 5th Dec 2024

As the 2025 National Fish & Chip Awards draws nearer, three standout UK fish and chip shops are making waves in the race to be named the industry’s finest for training and development. The p … read more

Cod in Crisis: How Illegal Fishing and Quotas Threaten the Barents Sea

Posted by Stelios on 5th Dec 2024

The Barents Sea, a critical hub for global whitefish supply, faces a perfect storm of declining fish stocks, economic reliance on Russian imports, and concerns over illegal fishing. As quotas are s … read more

Business Rates Relief Announced for Hospitality in Scotland

Posted by Emma on 5th Dec 2024

UKHospitality has cautiously welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement of a 40% business rates relief for hospitality venues with a rateable value of up to £51,000. The relief, set to take ef … read more

National Insurance Increase Faces Backlash Amid Hospitality Fears

Posted by Emily on 5th Dec 2024

Plans to raise employers’ National Insurance contributions in 2025 have sparked heated debate in parliament, with cross-party MPs warning of dire consequences for the UK’s hospitality sector. The p … read more

Mobile Fish & Chip Operators Gear Up for National Award Showdown

Posted by Emily on 4th Dec 2024

Three of the UK’s most exciting mobile fish and chip businesses are racing towards the coveted Mobile Operator of the Year title at the National Fish & Chip Awards 2025. As they prepare for … read more

Doner Shack Relocates Headquarters to the US, Citing UK Tax Challenges

Posted by Emily on 2nd Dec 2024

The well-known kebab restaurant brand Doner Shack has announced plans to relocate its headquarters to the United States, a decision driven by what it describes as a challenging business environment … read more

The Soil Association's League Table Exposes UK's Best and Worst Children's Menus

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

A new report from the Soil Association has raised concerns about the quality of children's meals served at some UK restaurant chains. The agricultural charity claims that many of these meals are pr … read more

£338m Loungers Deal Sparks Shareholder Debate

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

A proposed £338 million takeover of Loungers, the café-bar group behind Cosy Club, Lounge, and Brightside, has met resistance from several of its largest shareholders. Fortress Investment Group, th … read more

December Special Offer: Clean & Sparkle with Ceres!

Posted by Emma on 2nd Dec 2024

The festive season is here, and as we wrap up another incredible year, Ceres is thrilled to bring you a special December offer designed to make your post-Christmas cleanup a breeze. This month, whe … read more

Takeaway Sales Show Resilient Growth Amid Economic Challenges

Posted by Emily on 28th Nov 2024

New research indicates that Britain’s restaurant industry continues to enjoy robust delivery and takeaway sales growth, with a like-for-like increase of 4.8% in October. This marks a slight dip fro … read more

UK’s Top Fish and Chip Shops Compete for Takeaway of the Year

Posted by Emily on 28th Nov 2024

The National Fish & Chip Awards unveiled the ten finalists vying for the prestigious takeaway of the Year title, showcasing the best fish and chip shops across the UK. This announcement marks t … read more

Loungers Acquired by US Firm Fortress in £338 Million Deal

Posted by Emma on 28th Nov 2024

Loungers, the operator behind popular UK dining brands Lounge, Cosy Club, and Brightside, has agreed to a £338 million acquisition by US-based investment firm Fortress. The deal values Loungers' sh … read more

London’s Historic Smithfield and Billingsgate Markets to Close

Posted by Emma on 27th Nov 2024

After centuries as pillars of London’s food supply, the Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market are set to close following a decision by the City of London Corporation to withdraw its o … read more

Illegal Hiring Scandal: Former Chatteris Restaurant Owner Banned for Seven Years

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2024

A former Cambridgeshire restaurant owner has been banned from holding a company director role for seven years after employing illegal workers, marking a significant enforcement of UK immigration la … read more

Pub Giant Mitchells & Butlers Sees Record Profits Despite Looming Labour Challenges

Posted by Emily on 27th Nov 2024

Mitchells & Butlers, the pub and restaurant group behind well-known brands such as All Bar One, Harvester, O’Neills, and Miller & Carter Steakhouse, has reported robust financial results fo … read more

The Hospitality Sector’s Breaking Point: Why Insolvencies Are Rising

Posted by Emily on 26th Nov 2024

The UK’s restaurant industry is teetering on the edge of a financial precipice, with more than one in ten establishments facing imminent closure within the next 12 months. A new analysis from accou … read more

Calorie Counts on Menus: A Law That Missed the Mark?

Posted by Emily on 26th Nov 2024

Mandatory calorie labelling, introduced in April 2022 for businesses with more than 250 employees, aimed to encourage healthier eating choices. However, a recent study published in Nature Human Beh … read more

Burnt Chef Project Launches Global Whistleblowing Service for Hospitality Sector

Posted by Emily on 22nd Nov 2024

The Burnt Chef Project, a social enterprise dedicated to improving mental health in hospitality, has launched a global whistleblowing service aimed at addressing workplace concerns in the indu … read more