All articles by James McAllister – Page 3
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NewsBlack Sheep Coffee to launch first UK drive-thru
It will be the coffee shop chain’s second location in Lancashire, with further sites already in development across the region
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InterviewsParogon Group: ‘There’s been a significant shift in how people are dining out’
Co-founder Richard Colclough tells MCA the rise of GLP-1 use among diners has hit starter and dessert sales with the group responding by expanding its salad and healthy food options
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OpinionMore action is required from government, but will it be forthcoming?
As a minister casts doubt on the prospect of a VAT cut for the sector, questions grow over how much further the new government will go to support operators
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NewsFinn Lagun departs Pasta Evangelists
The co-founder of the Barilla-owned fresh pasta business has teased plans for new projects having relocated to Spain
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NewsLoungers on track to hit £500m turnover this year
Reflecting as the all-day café/bar/restaurant group celebrates its 24th birthday, co-founder and executive chairman Alex Reilley said being part of the business continues to be ‘one hell of ride’
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NewsUKH launches new guest safety principles for hotels
The guidance is built around five core principles of ensuring guest security and safety in accommodation
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NewsWendy’s shares drop as Trian parks takeover plans
The US fast food chain’s stock price fell after its largest shareholder shelved plans to pursue a take-private transaction for the company
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NewsFreight Island explores major events expansion
The urban market and entertainment-led brand will operate a dedicated seating area alongside bars and kitchens at Reading Festival this weekend, marking the next step in its growth plan
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NewsPPHE focused on delivering ‘continued financial progress’ following conclusion of formal sale process
The UK-listed hotel group says it has concluded shareholders’ interests are best served by ‘seeking to maximise value through a clear focus on operational delivery and further balance sheet simplification’
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NewsChallenging economic conditions limits growth for Batemans
The Lincolnshire-based brewer and pub company saw turnover fall 3% with profits down 12% in the year to 31 January 2026
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NewsScottish Tourism Alliance warns of mounting costs from Edinburgh visitor levy
The trade body is calling on councils across Scotland to learn from the problems being experienced in the country’s capital one month after the city’s visitor levy came into force
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NewsCosts and political instability holding back investment despite ‘Burnham bounce’ in hospitality confidence
A survey carried out by the industry’s major trade bodies shows optimism in the sector more than doubled following the government’s announcement last month to reduce business rates
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NewsHeyGuest partners with OpenTable
Available to all restaurants using OpenTable, the integration makes HeyGuest’s AI concierge technology accessible to more than 70,000 restaurants, bars, wineries and hospitality venues worldwide
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InterviewsBrakspear: ‘We need to see some actual long term policy change from government’
Chief executive Tom Davies has told MCA the planned review of pub business rates must lead to long-term reform of the system if it is to have a tangible benefit
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NewsUKH: Zero-hours reform will ‘impact job opportunities for young people’
The trade body has also warned that the plans to restrict zero-hours contracts would add more cost to operators and reduce flexibility for staff
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NewsAllpress reports 19% revenue rise
The Asahi-owned coffee business said it continued in its efforts to build and focus on strengthening key customers, supplier relationships and brand development in FY25
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NewsBrava Hospitality and Jamie Oliver Group to launch new concept
The pair are working with chef and author Gennaro Contaldo for the launch BOLO, which will be located next door to Prezzo Italian on Glasshouse Street in London’s Soho
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NewsBrakspear sees ‘another strong year of progress’
The Henley-based pub operator has reported 16% turnover growth in FY25 and strengthened profitability amid a period of significant investment in its estate
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NewsP.F. Chang’s to double up in London
Nearly a decade on from ts UK debut, the US-founded Asian fusion brand will open a second outpost in the capital at Westfield Stratford City
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InterviewsTOCA Social: ‘We’ve learnt to be more secure and proud of our football heritage’
As the competitive socialising concepts marks its fifth birthday, group president Alex Harman discusses the brand’s evolution and how it is tapping into football’s fast-growing popularity in the US