- Save article
NewsToca Social announces new investment
The immersive soccer and dining experience, which has plans to open in major cities across the UK, has received an investment from Norwegian Chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen
- Save article
NewsRevised Deposit Return Scheme ‘significant victory’ for hospitality
Hospitality venues will no longer be required to act as a return point, a key ask due to the cost and complexity involved, according to UKHospitality
- Save article
NewsChipotle keen to unlock growth potential in Europe
The new leadership team will drive forward a “compelling proposition,” says CEO Brian Niccol, as the fast casual Mexican chain reports $2.7bn in quarterly sales
- Save article
Analysis & InsightDeliveries continue to rise at expense of takeaways
Like-for-like delivery sales rose 5% year-on-year in March, while takeaway and click-and-collect orders dropped 3%, according to CGA
- Save article
NewsLoungers delivers record revenue
The all-day cafe, bar, and restaurant operator has reported £353.5m in revenue for the 53 weeks ended 21 April 2024, reflecting both strong like-for-like sales growth and the success of the openings programme
- Save article
InterviewsCoqfighter pivots back to bricks-and-mortar expansion
The fried chicken concept is keen to reach the 20-site mark as it prepares to open its first site in Brighton, with more to be added to the pipeline this year, co-founder Tristan Clough tells MCA
- Save article
Analysis & InsightRestaurant outlet growth to stabilise
The sector is moving towards consolidation, with companies optimising operations and scaling up through strategic restructuring and acquisitions to boost financial outcomes, according to Lumina Intelligence
- Save article
NewsIn pictures: Albert’s Schloss unveils London debut
The Bavarian bier palace concept will open its doors on Shaftesbury Avenue on 5 July, with a spacious 18,000 sq ft venue featuring five bars and an on-site bakery
- Save article
InterviewsTortilla: ‘London is really booming’
CEO Andy Naylor speaks to MCA about strong recovery in the capital, the current trading landscape, franchising opportunities, and a directional change in food innovation
- Save articleArticle
MAY 2024
MCA’s May edition features in-depth analysis and commentary on the eating and drinking out sector. This month, we explore the ascent of specialty coffee and how challenger brands have risen in a space previously dominated by mass market behemoths. Our newest writer, Simon Brooke, analyses the struggles of late night operators and the emergence of new, evolved concepts fighting for a share of consumers’ wallets. The edition also includes interviews with Dishoom as the much loved restaurant brand expands a new bar concept, and with Wahaca on its reimagined brand proposition as the company returns to the expansion trail. We also speak to Wingstop about the brand’s meteoric rise as it gears up for a record-breaking year, as well as Keystone Brewing Group on the outlook for breweries at a challenging time. Trends strategist Tom Gatehouse explores the rise of the smashburger phenomenon, while industry commentators Peter Martin, Dominic Walsh, and David Read share their view on engaging with a new administration, reducing Scope 3 emissions, and Hostmore’s acquisition of its franchisor TGI Fridays.