All MCA Insight articles in June 2025 – Page 3
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NewsPret trials new shop format targeting hybrid workers in towns
The trial will see Pret shift from its traditional grab-and-go model towards a more dine-in focused offer, with more seating, made-to-order food and added features such as a children’s play area
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NewsLate-night dining sees revival in London restaurants
Many London restaurants are extending hours and adding late-night booking slots, as demand builds from post-theatre diners, tourists and younger customers seeking alternatives to traditional nightlife
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NewsSoaring pint prices risk accelerating pub closures, landlords warn
Escalating operating costs are forcing pubs to raise prices to unsustainable levels, driving customers away and pushing many operators to the brink, according to a report in The Telegraph
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NewsCosts threaten fragile recovery of late-night economy
Bars have fuelled growth, with numbers up 7.6% YoY, while the nightclub sector remains heavily impacted, with venue numbers still 33.8% down on 2020
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Weekend PressKaren’s Diner to shut its last branch in UK after being ‘forced into liquidation’
Karen’s diner on White Lion Street in London’s Islington will close at the end of June after trading for two years, The Sun reports
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Weekend PressNightlife crisis sees British ticket app snapped up by US rival
Dice FM narrowly risked administration before its sale to New York-based Fever, The Telegraph reports
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Weekend PressRestaurant wine mark-ups are out of control, but there are still bargains to be had
Why does a £30 bottle of wine suddenly cost three times more when you sit down in a restaurant? The Independent’s Hannah Twiggs writes
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Weekend PressMichelin restaurant guide racist, academics claim
Despite some variety, critics argue the prestigious guide is ‘parochial’ and say it ignores ‘huge swathes of the world’, The Telegraph reports
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InterviewsKnead Bakery targets 10 sites as it opens first city centre location
Founded in 2020, the business has grown quickly with a model that combines handmade products, local sourcing and an independent ethos
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InterviewsChipotle’s UK design evolution balances US DNA with local sensitivity
Harrison, the design agency behind recent UK sites, explained how a new design direction is being rolled out with careful attention to sustainability, spatial challenges and visual storytelling
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InterviewsJoe & the Juice: ‘It’s still only the beginning for us in the UK’
CEO Thomas Nørøxe tells MCA the food to go chain continues to see potential for up to 500 sites in the UK alone, with growth to be found across new day parts, formats, and occasions
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NewsSessions adds Mikos Gyros to portfolio
Its menu will initially launch in 11 new locations this month, including Coventry, Plymouth, Reigate and Nottingham, before further rollout on Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat
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NewsASK Italian launches first loyalty app
ASK Perks is designed to enhance value and drive repeat visits, and includes instant ‘always on’ treats, member discounts, birthday offers and regular perk promotions
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NewsPret owner explores new investors ahead of possible IPO
The European investment group, which acquired Pret for £1.5bn in 2018, has engaged advisers to explore options including a stake sale, people familiar with the matter told the FT
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NewsRemarkable Pubs reports lower profits but remains ‘in a very healthy state’
While lfl sales improved across most sites, profit before tax fell to £1.16m, down from £1.64m the prior year, which the 11-strong operator attributed to rising costs of sales and overheads
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NewsMcMullen’s profit tops £16m as retail division drives growth
Turnover at the group’s 115 managed pubs reached £115m, up 8.1% year on year, with gains supported by price increases, strategic investments and site acquisitions
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NewsKFC: ‘All this new competition is a good thing’
Far from seeing it as a challenge, KFC UK & Ireland’s general manager Rob Swain is embracing the competition in the fried chicken market and doubling down on the brand’s commitment to growth, he tells MCA.
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InterviewsYoung’s: ‘London is alive and kicking’
With positive sales momentum continuing for the pub operator, CEO Simon Dodd speaks to MCA about its investment plan for the coming year, its upcoming loyalty debut and the prospects for future acquisitions
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InterviewsAlex Proud: ‘I don’t think anyone’s done it quite like this’
New hospitality concept Sinners is designed to match shifting consumer behaviours and revive the momentum of late-night venues in a more competitive, post-pandemic market
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NewsOpenings of the week
MCA rounds up this week’s biggest openings stories, including Vagabond Wines, Mouse Tail Coffee, HBR, and more