Harris + Hoole, the coffee shop chain with backing from Tesco, were recently reported to have gained alcohol licenses for some outlets – a potentially significant development, but one that a number of coffee shops have undertaken, recognising that evening business in some locations switches from hot drinks. Nick Tolley, co-founder of Harris+Hoole, has now clarified the … [Read more...]
Food start-ups to get a taste of the big time
An event aimed at fattening-up Britain’s growing army of food and drink start-ups, is set to dish up a rich mouthful of advice from retailers and entrepreneurs at the top of their game. The Food Exchange is the first in a series of events which will open up opportunities for new businesses to work with the biggest names in UK PLC. The day-long event on 26 March will see … [Read more...]
SSP for £2 billion float?
CITYA.M. reports that SSP (Select Service Partners) is preparing for a float this summer, selling shares worth up to £500 million through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). SSP claims to be the number one operator of food and beverage brands in travel locations worldwide. As The Food Travel Experts, it is the partner of choice at over 140 airports and over 250 rail stations … [Read more...]
Tim Martin: Saving the pub makes sense
Writing in Wetherspoon News, Founder and Chairman Tim Martin expresses his strong views on the need for sensible taxes and sensible business models in order to save the pub in the UK. 10,000 pubs ‘killed’ in 10 years “Unlike the sparrow, no one has stepped forward to accept blame for the killing of 10,000 pubs which have shut down in the last 10 years – about 15 per cent … [Read more...]
Orient-Express Hotels to launch Belmond Brand
Orient-Express Hotels Ltd, owners and operators of 45 luxury hotel and travel experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring destinations, has announced that it will market its collection under a new brand, Belmond, from 10 March, 2014. Marking an important new era in this iconic Company's history, the new name embraces all that is special about this unique travel … [Read more...]