All MCA Insight articles in September 2025 – Page 2
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NewsEmployment Tribunal case could have ‘nuclear’ impact on sector
A case brought against The Big Table Group, which is now subject to appeal, unexpectedly found that tronc payments should be included in the calculation of workers’ holiday pay, with fears more staff could now come forward with similar claims
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NewsCoco di Mama expands retail footprint with Tesco launch
Azzurri’s Italian food-to-go brand is accelerating its push into retail, marking a major step in the brand’s shift from FTG operator to omnichannel business
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InterviewsAdventure Leisure targets 25+ Mulligans sites by 2030
The group is expanding its mini golf and competitive socialising brand with “cautious ambition” COO Stephen Brown tells MCA
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Analysis & InsightFood inflation set to continue into festive period
The Autumn 2025 Market Forecast from Lynx Purchasing identifies beef, chicken, produce, and dairy as areas of concern, with inflation set to continue across the autumn
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NewsMexi Bean Express looks to triple estate
The Yorkshire-founded QSR chain is exploring opportunities to franchise its concept, with the goal of reaching 12-15 sites next year, founder Danielle Best tells MCA
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NewsAzumi: Pipeline of potential opportunities remains strong
The ROKA and Zuma operator reported revenue of £203m in 2024, a 1% decline from 2023, but said further openings are planned for this year and beyond
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Analysis & InsightSector calls for urgent tax action as Treasury outlines rates reform
UKH CEO Kate Nicholls urged “fixing NICs and cutting VAT is the action we need to see,” in response to the Government’s interim report on transforming business rates
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NewsOpenings of the week
MCA rounds up this week’s biggest openings stories, featuring Chocoberry, SpudBros Express, GAIL’s, and more
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InterviewsTinie Tempah’s RAPS to rollout with Kitchen Ventures
Multi-brand restaurant group and incubator Kitchen Ventures is looking for JV partners in London and Manchetser for RAPS, a fried chicken concept from UK rap artist Tinie Tempah
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Analysis & Insight‘We want to create longevity’: The superclubs defying the late-night downturn
As night-time closures reach an all-time high, mainstay club brands like Ministry of Sound and Fabric are defying the odds in an embattled sector. MCA explores how standout superclubs are surviving the slump and celebrating decades in business
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NewsByron Burger risks fourth insolvency
The burger restaurant brand’s future is in doubt once more after its owner Tristar Foods filed a notice of intention (NOI) to appoint administrators
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Analysis & InsightPret’s banking on a new game plan
New format stores, ‘Super Plate’ salads, and now meal deal trials. Pret may be keen to regain its place in consumers’ hearts – but will this slew of new initiatives be enough to turn things around for the brand? MCA explores its recent evolution
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Analysis & InsightMore than a meal: the evolution of the food hall
By offering a wide range of price points under one roof, they allow groups to socialise without the pressure of a single bill - the affordability and flexibility is at the heart of the sector’s rise
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NewsLondon restaurant openings rate ‘consistent with start of a boom’
Net restaurant openings are at their highest since Brexit, with the closure rate at its lowest in a decade, according to Harden’s
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NewsMel Mariott joins Prestige Purchasing leadership team
The founder of Darwin & Wallace, which was acquired by Portobello Pub Co last year, has been appointed commercial director at Prestige
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NewsPizzaExpress explores franchising in DACH region
The casual dining group, which has more than 470 sites worldwide, is seeking franchise partners in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
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NewsChipotle agrees joint venture to open first restaurants in Asia
The Mexican-inspired fast casual chain has partnered with SPC Group, with plans to launch in South Korea and Singapore in 2026
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NewsKricket announces first foray into New York dining scene
The London-based modern Indian group will take over Mexico City-inspired restaurant Comal on the Lower East Side for an exclusive pop-up dinner
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NewsGreene King launches new app and loyalty scheme
The evolved app is designed to represent all Greene King brands and solve consumer pain points, while the loyalty programme presents exclusive and personalised offers, discounts, and rewards
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Analysis & InsightNew wave operators drive growth in coffee market
WatchHouse, Knoops, and Gail’s are among those leading expansion and turnover growth in the industry - albeit Greggs now commands a 9% share of out-of-home coffee occasions