City A.M. reports that Deutsche Bank, who took over control of Orchid just one year ago, is now planning its sale. Orchid is the pub company with a portfolio spanning carvery pubs, the Living Room and Prohibition Bar chains, running to a total of around 300 sites across the UK. In its last reported accounts, Orchid sales had risen to £180 million for 2011, with food sales … [Read more...]
Pub sales and visits: weekend increases at the expense of weekday trade
UK pubs are flagging during weekdays but food, a focus on the over 50s, and loyalty promotions could lead a renaissance according to the latest from NPD Group which has just published valuable insights into current sales trends and their implications. Weekday business weakens; weekend strengthens The figures from NPD Group show that Britain’s pubs are increasingly … [Read more...]
Let there be beer: brewing industry fights back to reignite love of beer
For the first time ever, the brewing industry is united in one single vision and is working together to celebrate the very best of brewing in the ‘Let there be beer’ campaign that launches on 29 June. Frank PR has taken on the consumer PR and RKCR/Y&R has developed the creative strategy and new TV ad. Mindshare is engaged in the media buying and social media elements of … [Read more...]
Wine and spirit sector feels the pinch
Total alcohol sales continue to fall according to the latest Wine and Spirit Trade Association market report, which shows the duty escalator continuing to impact negatively on the sector. The quarterly report shows that volume sales in the off trade were down 3% for the year and 3% in the last 12 weeks, while on trade sales were down 3% for the year and 2% in the last 12 … [Read more...]
Trade customers up the steak ladder to increased revenues
Back in April we published findings from research by food & drink consultancy CGA Strategy showing that 90% of managed pubs currently include some level of steak offer on their menu, and that destination venues – pubs off the high street – are the heartland for steak sales. These outlets see £1 in every £5 spent on food going towards a steak course, compared to £1 in £13 … [Read more...]