All MCA Insight articles in September 2023
View all stories from this issue.
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NewsOpenings of the week
MCA rounds up this week’s biggest opening and acquisition stories, including Young’s, Sides, King Pins, Itsu, Phat Buns and more
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NewsParliamentary debate to be held over protection of heritage pubs
The debate, taking place in the House of Commons later today, will explore ways to step up protection for heritage pubs
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InterviewsUKHospitality reveals progress on workforce strategy
The trade body is engaging with the government on multiple issues, such as recent transport policy decisions, clarity on business rates, and the shortage occupation list, CEO Kate Nicholls tells MCA
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NewsChaiiwala targets 500 sites
The Indian QSR brand plans to accelerate its domestic and international expansion, following a partnership with investment company Lote Global
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NewsGreggs: ‘We continue to grow our market share’
The bakery chain will continue to target “convenient locations” across the UK, and is rolling out a new partnership with Uber Eats “at pace”, according to CEO Roisin Currie
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ArticleOCTOBER 2023
MCA’s October edition features in-depth analysis and commentary on the eating and drinking out sector. This month, we explore The Big Table Group’s potential to turn around its recently acquired Leisure estate, Stonegate’s much-discussed move to introduce dynamic pricing, and the trend towards nostalgic dining during times of economic uncertainty. The edition includes interviews with veteran restaurateur Jeremy King as he returns to the UK’s restaurant scene, Loungers’ Alex Reilley as the business marks the 200-site milestone, Itsu on a record summer of sales, and Amber Taverns on building a strong pipeline. Industry commentators Peter Martin, Dominic Walsh, and David Read share their views on sector issues, including the consolidation of market halls, changing consumer behaviour, and the intricacies of procurement and supply.
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InterviewsVagabond: AI has massive potential for our business
The self-pour wine bar concept is exploring the role of AI in enhancing the guest experience, operations director Christobell Giles said
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NewsSlug & Lettuce reveals brand repositioning
The Stonegate-owned cocktail bar chain has reopened its flagship venue in Deansgate, Manchester, the first of its sites to experience a redesign aligned with an “evolved brand vision”
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NewsOpenings of the week
MCA rounds up this week’s biggest openings stories, including Arc Inspirations, Miss Millie’s, Joe & The Juice and more
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NewsDiageo ‘well-positioned’ to deliver despite uncertainty
The global drinks brand will continue to invest in marketing and innovation, CEO Debra Crew has said
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NewsFive Guys eyes transport hubs for expansion
CEO John Eckbert says that the burger chain could grow by 150 sites in the coming years, and is “desperate” to open a restaurant at Heathrow
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NewsHostmore reports progress on cost reductions
The TGI Fridays UK operator reported revenue of £93.6m for H1 2023, with cost reductions alongside operational and portfolio management reducing losses
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Analysis & InsightNightclub numbers see sharp decline
Changing consumer habits and Covid-related closures have led to a 30% decline in nightclubs since the start of the pandemic, according to CGA and AlixPartners
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InterviewsNWTC sees 60-site potential for The Botanist
COO Amber Wood says the the group has a “strong pipeline for next year”, with new openings set for Brighton and Bournemouth
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NewsRed Engine doubles turnover
The Flight Club operator reported record revenues of £53.8m in 2022 - year-on-year growth of 118% - and gross profit of £32.9m
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InterviewsTortilla ups focus on evening trade
As it launches its new evening menu and happy hour offer, Tortilla looks to shift the sales mix away from its current lunchtime focus, according to operations director Stephen Clark
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NewsMarket halls ripe for consolidation and growth
Having originally made his money in the property market, Market Halls CEO Andy Lewis-Pratt tells Dominic Walsh he’s come out of retirement with a mission to become the UK’s biggest food hall operator
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NewsSamyukta Nair heads to Dubai
The celebrated restaurateur behind luxury London-based group LSL Capital is taking Jamavar and MiMi Mei Fair to the Middle East
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NewsDeliveroo launches £250m share buyback
The delivery company is offering between 115p and 135p for A Ordinary shares shares via a tender offer, which it says represents a premium of 6% to 24%
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NewsBig Table appoints Leisure MD
Debbie Husband most recently held the position of managing director at the Rank Group, and before that spent 15 years at Travelodge