All MCA Insight articles in April 2021
View all stories from this issue.
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NewsCity Pub stakes pave way for full control
City Pub Group’s acquisition of stakes in two high quality and complimentary businesses, pave the way for full control in the future, according to analysts Liberum.
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NewsHornby and Pavli appointed to Only A Pavement Away board
The Restaurant Group chief executive Andy Hornby, and former managing director of operations at Punch and hospitality consultant Paul Pavli, are among six new appointments to the board of trustees at charity Only A Pavement Away (OAPA).
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NewsBBPA calls for greater clarity on Covid certification
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has called for long-term clarity on the situation regarding the possible introduce of compulsory Covid status certificates for hospitality venues.
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NewsMcDonald’s and Uber partner on enhanced app
McDonald’s and Uber have partnered to bring delivery, click & serve, takeaway, table service or drive thru digital functions together for the first time via the My McDonald’s consumer app.
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NewsLandlords urge ‘compromise on all sides’
Hospitality operators and landlords should “share the pain” and split rental arrears 50-50 if unable to pay outstanding rent, according to a new proposal drawn up by institutional landlords.
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OpinionDavid Read: The cost of food and cooking
I read this morning that sector bosses are battling staff shortages as they prepare to welcome customers back indoors next month, quoting that in London and the south east, where the shortage is most acute, the going rate for waiters has already risen from about £11 to almost £15 an hour. Some kitchen staff are commanding salaries a third higher than before Covid struck.
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OpinionAs the industry reopens, a familiar challenge lurks
To say a lot has changed over the past year would be an understatement. The pandemic has ripped through the hospitality industry, bringing a relentless barrage of new challenges with each wave of restrictions and lockdowns.
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Analysis & InsightConfidence grows amid outdoor trading
More than a third of operators (36%) have described their opening weeks of outdoor trading as a “decent start” while 22% say it has been “excellent”.
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NewsPret creates omnichannel director
Pret A Manger has created a new senior management role to reflect its ongoing shift towards becoming on multi-channel business.
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NewsSt Austell to reopen managed pubs
t Austell Brewery is set to reopen 18 of its managed houses for outdoor service today (Thursday 29th April), having made significant investments in its al fresco spaces.
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Analysis & InsightVirtual reality – the rise of the delivery-only restaurant
Korean chicken wings have long been a favourite at Bone Daddies. Marinated in a mix of mirin, sake, ginger and salt, deep fried, smothered in a sticky gochujang sauce, and topped with sesame seeds, the signature side has been a staple of the ramen group’s menu since it launched back in 2012.
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NewsCovid certificates for large events only
Compulsory Covid status certificates for pubs and restaurants are looking increasingly unlikely, with a government review set recommend documents are required only for larger events.
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NewsTaster raises new cash for franchise roll-out
Dark kitchen start-up Taster has raised $37m (£26.5m) in new investment to roll out its delivery only model across Europe.
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NewsKFC sees strong growth
KFC grew sales in the UK by 16% in Q1, the second biggest increase worldwide after China.
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NewsCity Pub Group ups Mosaic stake
City Pub Group has acquired a 49% stake in Kensington Park Hotel and increased its shareholding in Mosaic Pub and Dining.
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NewsTech removes pain points for guests
Two in five (40%) of consumers have said that technology has improved their hospitality experiences, according to the latest GO Technology report from Zonal and CGA.
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NewsMcDonald’s and KFC rapidly expand delivery footprint
McDonald’s and KFC have both more than doubled their share of the total delivery market since 2019, Lumina Intelligence research finds.
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InterviewsNick Mackenzie: ‘Our focus on culture is boosting customer scores’
Greene King’s new culture program helped to position the business well during the pandemic, despite being launched only a week before the first lockdown, chief executive Nick Mackenzie told MCA’s The Conversation.
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NewsHakkasan acquired by Tao Group Hospitality
Hakkasan Group has been acquired by US-based Tao Group Hospitality, which plans to expand its global portfolio of brands including in the UK.
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NewsBurger King promotes meat-free options
Burger King has expanded its range of meat-free items, adding a Vegan Royale to its menu. The burger is certified by The Vegan Society and is made with crispy-coated plant-based chicken.