Tattu appoints advisors for growth plans: Contemporary Chinese restaurant group Tattu has started working with advisors to map plans for growth, Propel has learned. The company, which was founded in 2015 by brothers Adam and Drew Jones, is understood to be working with advisor Clearwater International on options that could include bringing in a strategic partner to help it with plans for expansion in the UK and overseas, with the US a possible destination. The group operates sites in Manchester, Leeds and Birmingham, with the latter 160-cover restaurant opening earlier this year. It is currently on-site on a fourth restaurant, in Edinburgh. After the success of its initial three openings, it is understood the business has received a number of enquiries from landlords to join and anchor schemes across the UK. Tattu launched in Manchester in 2015 with a second site opening in Leeds city centre in June 2017. The Birmingham restaurant opened in The Grand development in Barwick Street. The ground-floor space hosts a bar and private dining rooms while there is a main restaurant downstairs. Speaking to Propel last year, Jones said: “Every restaurant we open is unique and at this stage we are keeping growth in-house – Read More

San Carlo Group reports like-for-likes up 2% in current financial year as it aims for return to profit: San Carlo Group has reported like-for-likes are up 2% in its current financial year, with total sales increasing 12% as the group aims to return to profitability. The company, which operates the San Carlo and Fumo restaurants, said profit has climbed 87% so far in the current financial year. The announcement comes as the company saw full-year turnover pass the £50m mark, although “investment in new sites and difficult trading conditions” led to the business slipping to a loss. Revenue was up 8% to £53,943,097 for the year ending 30 September 2018, compared with £49,946,472 the year before. However, pre-tax profits slipped to £3,745 compared with £1,278,435 the previous year, while the company reported an overall loss for the year of £133,678 compared with a profit of £941,449 the year before. The company opened four sites during the year including its first San Carlo in London, in Regent Street. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “The group has recorded a loss in the year, which can be attributed to investments in new sites as well as difficult trading conditions Read More

The Alchemist secures Cheltenham site, eyes Bristol opening: The Alchemist, the 16-strong Simon Potts-led bar and restaurant concept, is looking to open a cluster of sites in the south west after securing a site in Cheltenham, Propel has learned. The company, which recently secured the remaining Smollensky’s site in Reuters Plaza, Canary Wharf, has secured a 4,539 square foot site in the town’s Brewery Quarter for an opening next May. Potts told Propel: “I am really pleased to have acquired the Cheltenham site, it’s a lovely part of the world with plenty of key calendar events driving guests in. Following our success in Cardiff over our first trading year in the city and with a second Birmingham venue opening next month, it’s a strategic move to consolidate an important geographical region for us. Bristol has long been on our target location list and I hope to tie something up there in the next few months to tie the south west together.” The company had previously been linked to a site in Bristol’s Queens Road that formerly housed Rise Records. The business, which is backed by Palatine Private Equity, has further openings lined up in Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and Embassy Read More

TRG launches further burger delivery concept: The Restaurant Group (TRG) has added a further burger delivery concept thought its Frankie & Benny’s brand, Propel has learned. The group has begun to roll out Stacks, which comes with the slogan – “Stack it up, pack it in and we'll begin”, and offers eight types of burger, including chicken katsu, buffalo blue and smoky beet, priced between £5 and £8. Last year, TRG launched virtual brands Burger Burger and Kick Ass Burrito through its Frankie & Benny’s and Chiquito concepts respectively. Earlier this year, Propel revealed it had added a further two virtual brands to its portfolio. Through Chiquito it now offers the Cornstar Tacos virtual brand in circa 40 sites, while the new Birdbox brand, which focuses on chicken and burgers, is available through Frankie & Benny’s. In May, the company launched a new delivery brand called Pyjama Hotel out of the Foodstars unit in Battersea. Pyjama Hotel describes itself as offering “a festival of Indian flavours, bringing colourful, vibrant, Indian favourites and new dishes to your door”. Tokyo Industries relaunches online radio station Openlab: Tokyo Industries, the bar and nightclub operator led by Aaron Mellor, has joined a management buyout Read More

Wagamama applies to open dark kitchen in London Fields: Wagamama, owned by The Restaurant Group (TRG), has applied to open a dark kitchen in London Fields, Propel has learned. Propel understands the brand is looking to take space at the Railway Arches in Mentmore Terrace and has applied to open a dark kitchen to prepare takeaway food and alcoholic drinks for delivery only. However, it is believed the plans have received objections from local residents. On acquiring Wagamama last year, TRG pledged to invest in more delivery-only kitchens. It said it recognised delivery as a significant area of opportunity, particularly as Wagamama was already one of the top brands on Deliveroo. Wagamama launched in a Deliveroo Editions site in Battersea last year. At the same time, Wagamama is understood to be in talks on a site in the City for its new grab-and-go concept Mamago after passing up on a former Starbucks site in Coleman Street. The brand is also set to strengthen its London presence with an opening in Old Street. Propel understands the Emma Woods-led group will open a restaurant at The Bower mixed-use development later this year. TRG, which acquired Wagamama for £559m last year, said it Read More

Lluch steps down as Wasabi managing director: Frederic Lluch has stepped down as managing director of Wasabi, the sushi and bento chain, with a search for his successor in advanced stages, Propel has learned. Lluch joined the company, in which private equity firm Capdesia acquired a minority stake earlier this year, in March 2016 as operations director and was promoted to managing director in June 2017 where he led the business alongside the company’s founder Dong Hyung Kim. Names previously linked to the business include former Pizza Hut Restaurants deputy managing director Henry Birts and ex-Gourmet Burger Kitchen chief operating officer Keith Bird. The recent investment from Capdesia is being used to support the company’s next phase of growth, including expansion of the UK portfolio, extensive refurbishment programme of existing stores, further expansion of its US presence and development of other commercial opportunities for the brand. Capdesia told Propel in May it saw “amazing potential” for the sushi and bento brand. Capdesia invested in the 60-strong business, with co-investment coming from Sushiro Global Holdings, Japan’s largest publicly listed sushi chain operator, and Regis Group, a leading US and UK asset manager. Ashton Crosby, co-founder and managing director of Capdesia, told Read More

200 Degrees to double Birmingham presence with tenth site: Nottingham-based coffee roaster and retailer 200 Degrees will double its presence in Birmingham next month. The company, which is backed by Foresight Group, has confirmed it will open a site in the city’s Lower Temple Street, as revealed by Propel in May. 200 Degrees already operates a site in the city’s Colmore Row. The new 65-seater venue is located in the former Midland Hotel and the 1,830 square foot store retains many period features and will also offer a split bar for takeaway service. The new Birmingham venue is 200 Degrees’ tenth coffee shop to open since 2014. Co-founder Tom Vincent said: “Birmingham is the first location outside Nottingham in which we’ve opened two coffee shops. We’re excited to contribute further to the fantastic food and drink scene across the city and be part of this area’s rapid regeneration. Our Colmore Row coffee shop has been well received since we opened and the new Lower Temple Street store will give our customers somewhere closer to visit by New Street Station.” 200 Degrees, which was set up by Vincent and Rob Darby in 2012, has coffee shops in Nottingham, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Read More

Young’s secures Individual Restaurants site in Kent: London pub retailer Young’s is set to take its first foray into Kent for a while after securing a site in Tunbridge Wells, Propel has learned. The listed pub operator is understood to have completed the freehold investment purchase of Tunbridge Wells Bar & Grill and simultaneously bought out Individual Restaurants’ interest in in the site. The Patrick Dardis-led group will now undertake a comprehensive capital expenditure scheme on the site before reopening it as The White Bear, its name when it was a Whitbread-owned pub. Young’s stated: “Young’s is incredibly excited to be in Tunbridge Wells. After a stunning refurbishment, we hope to open by the end of August.” Earlier this year, Dardis told Propel the company had at least £70m available for acquisitions and could raise “more if required”. He said the company, which bought 15-strong Redcomb Pubs at the start of the year for £34m, was eyeing “various opportunities” ranging from companies with a “couple of sites” to “slightly larger” businesses. UberEats halfway to UK virtual restaurants target: UberEats has said it is halfway to its target of launching 400 virtual restaurants in the UK. Speaking to Bloomberg TV, Rodrigo Read More

  Caring acquires former Barbecoa site in St Paul’s: Sector investor Richard Caring, who backs Caprice Holdings, The Ivy Collection and Bill’s, has acquired Jamie Oliver’s former Barbecoa site in London’s St Paul’s, Propel has learned. Caring has secured the site in the One New Change scheme out of administration and is believed to be in talks to acquire up to a further three sites formerly operated by the high-profile chef. One New Change Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group, purchased the assets and lease of Barbecoa St Paul’s out of administration last year. That company was subsequently placed into administration earlier this year as part of the collapse of Oliver’s UK restaurant business, including 18 Jamie’s Italians, which are being marketed by Christie & Co. It is unclear what Caring intends to do with the One New Change site, although there has been speculation a second The Ivy Asia might be part of his plans. He has also been looking for sites for his fledgling Harry’s Bar concept and for a mooted Sexy Elephant restaurant. Last month, Giggling Squid acquired the former Jamie’s Italian site in Cambridge, while chef Simon Shaw acquired the Jamie’s in Read More

Marmalade Pubs reports £1.7m sales in first full trading year, Ei Group made £796,000 profit from Hunky Dory stake sale: Marmalade Pubs, the joint venture between Marylebone Leisure Group and Ei Group’s Managed Investments segment, has reported sales of £1,717,000 for the year ending 30 September 2018 – its first full year of trading. Although the company was incorporated in June 2016, the company had no pubs in its portfolio during the prior period. Marmalade Pubs made an operating loss of £132,000 and a loss before tax of £164,000, according to accounts filed at Companies House. During the period Marmalade Pubs operated three sites but now trades from two having sold The Compton Cross in Soho to Shepherd Neame in April. Marmalade Pubs now operates the Portobello Star in Notting Hill and the Crown & Treaty in Uxbridge. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “The loss before tax for the year amounted to £164,000 (2017: zero) primarily due to administrative costs incurred establishing the business operations. The directors don’t recommend the payment of a dividend.” Meanwhile, new accounts have revealed Ei Group made a profit of £796,000 on the sale of its 51% stake in Hunky Dory Read More

Pizza Pilgrims plans training academy: Pizza Pilgrims, founded by brothers Thom and James Elliot, is planning to launch a training academy in London next year, Propel understands. Speaking at the Global Restaurant Investment Forum in London, Thom Elliot said the company hoped to open the academy next year and was in talks regarding a possible site. He said: “Everyone is looking for fantastic staff and launching an academy would be part of our attempt to find a solution to that problem and add another layer of attraction for future team members. It would allow us to train our staff in a kitchen and front-of-house environment and allow them to test what they have learned on the public – a kind of throwback to the old catering schools.” The company currently operates 11 sites – ten in London and one in Oxford. It opened its latest site earlier this year at Westfield London’s new food court. Elliot said the company had raised further funds from existing investors earlier this year but it would “continue to take a steady approach to expansion”. Wagamama to close New Zealand restaurants: Wagamama, The Restaurant Group-owned chain, is closing its New Zealand sites. The company posted Read More

Cabana seeks new investment: Cabana, the Brazilian barbecue group founded by Jamie Barber and David Ponte, has appointed advisers as it reviews options to secure new investment. As reported at the weekend the seven-strong group is working with KPMG to assess funding options, which could include a further internal fund-raise or, more likely, securing a new investment partner. Propel understands the company spent last year doing a lot of “heavy lifting”, including speaking to landlords and rebalancing its offer to ensure the business was more robust. It is thought that although trading remains challenging and it may explore exiting one or two sites, like-for-like sales have been good. The business closed three sites last year – in Islington, Brixton and Newcastle. Speaking to Propel earlier this year about changes to the concept’s offer, Barber said: “There was obviously a significant bias towards meat but we have rebalanced that to incorporate more vegan and vegetarian dishes and taken a more flexitarian approach. It has paid off and we have seen an uplift in performance.” Boost Juice Bars reports Ebitda boost and substantial narrowing of losses in ‘transitional’ year: Boost Juice Bars, which operates circa 30 sites and is backed by the Read More

Shamel to step down as Las Iguanas managing director: Mos Shamel is to step down as managing director of Las Iguanas after 16 years of leading the Casual Dining Group (CDG)-owned restaurant bar brand, Propel has learned. Shamel is understood to be stepping down from the 55-strong brand to pursue a fresh challenge outside the group. CDG acquired the then 41-strong South American-themed restaurant group in July 2015 in a deal valued at circa £85m. Shamel oversaw the brand’s smooth transition to its new owner and its continued growth, which has played a key part in the sales performance of CDG during the past four years. CDG, which also operates Cafe Rouge and Bella Italia, plans to announce a successor to Shamel in the “coming months”. James Spragg, who was promoted to chief executive of CDG earlier this year, said: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Mos for his immense contribution to Las Iguanas, which has grown into one of the UK’s leading restaurant bar businesses and one that’s consistently placed in the Sunday Times Top 100 Companies To Work For list. He leaves Las Iguanas in great shape, with a really strong and motivated Read More

Caring closes in on £200m deal to sell 25% stake of empire: Richard Caring is closing in on a deal to sell 25% of his entire empire to the former prime minister of Qatar. Caring, whose interests include Annabel’s, the private club in London’s Mayfair, and the Ivy restaurant chain, is understood to have agreed the outlines of a £200m deal with Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani. It would put a valuation of £800m on Caring’s empire, reports The Sunday Times. Thani would have an option to buy a further 25% of the group, depending on its performance. The prospect of a stake sale, first reported by The Sunday Times last month, comes after the renovation of Annabel’s. Caring spent about £65m moving the club – opened in 1963 by Mark Birley and named after his wife – to a refitted grade I-listed townhouse two doors down in Berkeley Square. Caring owns Annabel’s via Mark Birley Holdings, which also owns George, Harry’s Bar and Mark’s Club in London. It posted pre-tax losses of £6.6m on sales of £23.4m in 2017. He owns the original Ivy restaurant and J Sheekey, in Covent Garden, through Caprice Holdings, which made pre-tax Read More

Rosa’s founders launch Chinese noodles concept at St Katherine Docks: Rosa’s Thai Cafe founders Alex and Saiphin Moore have launched Chinese noodles concept Hoh Sek Noodles in London’s St Katharine Docks. Hoh Sek, which is Cantonese for “delicious”, is housed in a waterside pavilion in the heart of the marina. It offers a grab-and-go concept during the day with a core menu – Saiphin’s Six – consisting of six noodle dishes primarily Chinese but with Asia-wide influences. In the evening, Hoh Sek transforms into a 40-cover sit-down restaurant, including eight seats at the kitchen bar counter and a further 44 on a terrace outside. Saiphin Moore also plans to offer a weekly specials board with some of her own home recipes, and will host supper clubs and menu tastings. She said: “My first noodle shop, which I set up when I was 14 in Thailand, started me on my career as a chef. Years later, Alex and I met in Hong Kong and we fell in love with the street food noodles there. They’re a symbol of the city’s thriving food scene and what we want to bring to London and share with everybody.” Danny Egan, senior portfolio manager at Read More

Brewhouse & Kitchen reports 21% sales growth to £14m as it appears on inspirational list: Brewhouse & Kitchen, the UK’s largest brewpub group, has reported sales up 21% to £14,142,802 for the year ended September 2018, as it appeared on Stock Exchange Annual’s 1,000 Companies That Inspire Britain list for the first time. Gross margin hit a new high of 73%, although the company made an operating loss of £532,219. The company said it had expanded its headquarters team to ensure it was ready for opportunities that would “arise from a more competitive and challenging food market and a dynamic acquisition market”. It also said it would ensure it could “recruit and develop the best people available in a tough recruitment market”. In 2017, Brewhouse & Kitchen brought its finance system in-house by recruiting financial controller and management accountant roles. Other roles created during the year included an operations director, a food operational support team, brand trainer and head of recruitment. There were a number of other “large exceptional costs due to the implementation of new systems”. Later this year, the company will open its first hotel within a brewpub, with plans to open three more in the next 18 Read More

Giggling Squid secures Jamie’s Italian in Cambridge: Giggling Squid, the 32-strong Thai restaurant brand founded by Andy and Pranee Laurillard that was placed on the market earlier this year, has further strengthened its pipeline by securing a site in Cambridge. The business has exchanged on the Jamie’s Italian site in Wheeler Street, Propel has learned. In the 12 months to April 2019, the group opened eight restaurants, including in Bishop’s Stortford, Cheltenham, Chichester, Harpenden, Kingston-upon-Thames and Windsor. In April, the company opened restaurants in Oxford and Chislehurst, with both sites trading well and to expectations. The pipeline for sites into 2019/20 is strong as Giggling Squid looks to open six to ten restaurants a year as well as embarking on a refurbishment programme of its more mature restaurants. Giggling Squid has signed for the former CAU site in Leamington Spa, which is due to open in the autumn subject to planning permission. Propel also understands Giggling Squid is close to securing a site in Weybridge. First-round bids for the BGF-backed Thai chain are due at the start of July, with CBPE, which acquired Cote for circa £100m in September 2013 before selling it in July 2015 to BC Partners for Read More

New look drives sales at PizzaExpress as company shuffles management team:PizzaExpress, the Hony Capital-backed chain, has seen an impressive sales uptick at the first batch of sites updated to its new format, managing director Zoe Bowley has told Propel. The company launched future-proofing strategy “Future Express” at the start of this year. The move includes refurbishments, updates and innovation across its portfolio, with its Langham Place and Leeds Arena sites the first to be updated. A further handful of sites have now been upgraded, including Putney, Loughton and Blackheath, with sales significantly up on pre-refurbishment performance and running ahead of expectations. The new look and feel is themed around the “sociable pizzeria”. The company runs circa 490 restaurants in the UK and about 60 overseas. At the same time, the company has widened the remits of Lee Homer and Matt Ward as it looks to streamline its management team. Homer, who has been with the business for five years, the past two as brand director, becomes brand and operations director. At the same time Ward, who has been with the company for more than four years, the past two and a half as commercial director also takes over responsibility for Read More

Azzurri Group appoints new managing directors for ASK and Zizzi: Azzurri Group, the Bridgepoint-backed restaurant company, has reshuffled its management team, with Harry Heeley moving across from ASK Italian to become managing director of Zizzi and Chris Holmes, formerly of KFC, set to replace him, Propel has learned. Heeley joined Steve Holmes-led Azzurri as managing director of ASK at the start of 2016 after spending more than seven years at the National Trust, including four and a half years as hospitality director. Holmes will join the company as managing director of ASK later this summer after five-and-a-half years at KFC, latterly as chief development officer. Before that he had stints at Boots, EMI and PwC. Azzurri currently operates 112 ASK restaurants; 158 Zizzi sites in the UK plus three in Ireland and one in China; 22 Coco di Mamas and will open its third Radio Alice on Monday (24 June). At the same time Phil Boyd, who has been operations director at Zizzi for the past three years, has seen his role expanded to include overseeing the brand’s fledgling overseas operation. He will report into Heeley. Azzurri is also set to start a search for a marketing director, with Jo Read More

Morty & Bob’s set for further growth after securing investment: Cafe and bar concept Morty & Bob’s is set for further growth after securing new investment from Edition Capital, the backer of Incipio Group, Propel has learned. The concept, which is the brainchild of Charlie Phillips and Jesse Bliss, has secured a £650,000 investment from Edition. Morty & Bob’s opened a site at Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross last year having closed its original site in Hackney. The new funding will help it open a site in October inside the newly refurbished food court opposite the Apple store in Westfield White City. It is also thought additional sites have been identified for this year and beyond. Formed in 2013 as a street food stall appearing at festivals and food markets across the UK, the business matured to pop-up sites in Soho and west London before settling on permanent sites in Hackney and Coal Drops Yard. The latter site offers the brand’s grilled cheese toasties, salads and weekend brunches alongside hot sandwiches. The Coal Drops Yard site heralded a new era for Morty & Bob’s, with an upgraded evening offer of small plates, bar snacks, cocktails, wine and beer. The Read More

CDG rebrands Café Rouge delivery concept: Casual Dining Group (CDG), the James Spragg-led company, has rebranded one of two delivery concepts attached to its Café Rouge brand, Propel has learned. The company has rebranded its Chef & Rooster concept as Wonder Chicken after a revamp of the chicken-focused virtual brand’s menu. A CDG spokesman told Propel: “We are committed to innovating, trialling and evolving all our offers to meet the changing wants and needs of consumers. As such, when we revamped the menu for our chicken-focused delivery concept Chef & Rooster, the second delivery brand operating from Café Rouge sites, we also took the decision to rebrand the concept as Wonder Chicken.” CDG also operates virtual brand Stack & Grill out of its Café Rouge estate. CDG has also rolled out virtual brand Blazing Bird across about 40 of its Las Iguanas sites and launched a further brand – Bang Bang Burritos – out of a similar number of restaurants. It also operates virtual delivery brand Mac N Shack out of some of its Bella Italia restaurants. Knight steps down from Jamie’s: Jon Knight has stepped down from Jamie Oliver Restaurant Group after being chief executive of Jamie’s Italian for Read More

Wade to swap Prezzo for Roadchef: Darrell Wade has stepped down as chief commercial officer at Prezzo to join motorway services operator Roadchef, Propel has learned. Wade joined Karen Jones-led Prezzo at the start of last year. Before that he spent almost ten years at TGI Friday’s UK working across a number of executive functions including marketing director, commercial director and most recently chief operating officer. Prior to joining TGI Friday’s Wade spent seven years at Yum! Brands in marketing roles for KFC and Pizza Hut UK spanning brand, retail, new product development, advertising, media and channel management. He will join Mark Fox-led Roadchef at the beginning of July in the newly created board-level position of chief commercial officer. Last month, Prezzo appointed Dean Challenger, formerly of David Lloyd Leisure and Premier Inn, as finance director. Earlier this year Propel revealed Paul Barton had stepped down as operations director of Prezzo after more than two-and-a-half years with the business. Propel understands the company won’t replace Barton but its regional operations directors will report straight into executive chairman Jones. Earlier this month, natural fast food brand Leon signed a five-year exclusivity agreement with Roadchef as it prepares to open two more Read More

  Taylor St Baristas launches £750,000 crowdfunding campaign to expand wholesale arm and cafe partnerships: Taylor St Baristas has returned to crowdfunding platform Crowdcube in a bid to raise £750,000 as it expands its wholesale arm and cafe partnerships, Propel has learned. Founded in 2006 by siblings Nick, Andrew and Laura Tolley, Taylor St Baristas has opened more than 60 cafes through partnerships. Now having raised more than £1.8m in its previous Crowdcube campaign, the company has returned to the platform to support its strategy. It is offering 6.38% equity in return for the investment, giving the company a pre-money valuation of £11m. The campaign is currently in “stealth mode”, meaning it’s only open to select investors rather than the public. The Tolley siblings also founded the Harris + Hoole coffee chain with Tesco, selling their share to the supermarket company in 2016. Harris + Hoole has subsequently been bought by Caffe Nero. The pitch states: “As the market shifts, Taylor St aims to lead the charge by partnering with global companies. The first is a global partnership with Sodexo, which by cups sold is one of the world’s largest coffee retailers, selling circa one billion hot beverages annually. Over Read More

Patisserie Valerie’s new owner says business back on track as it laid bare state of company at takeover: Patisserie Valerie’s new owner has said the business is back on track as it laid bare the state of the company it bought in January. Matt Scaife, a partner at Dublin-based private equity firm Causeway Capital Partners, which bought Patisserie Valerie out of administration for £5m, described the shock at finding broken ovens, unpaid suppliers, and a leak in the roof at a key bakery site. Patisserie Valerie shocked investors last year when it revealed a multimillion-pound black hole in its accounts that soon sank the business. Scaife told The Guardian: “As soon as we arrived the extent of the under-investment became increasingly apparent. There were ovens that had been broken for several months, and there was a leak in the bakery roof. Suppliers were often left unpaid, while new ones were sought. When someone decides to stop using butter in the puff pastry – in a patisserie - you know that something serious has happened." Six months on from the buyout the “new” Patisserie Valerie is looking much brighter, Scaife said, with plans to replace the outlets’ salmon and brown colour Read More

  Burger King UK looks to ramp up expansion: Burger King UK, the Bridgepoint-backed chain, is looking to open at least 90 sites during the next three years. The Alasdair Murdoch-led group, which currently operates more than 500 sites, has appointed agent Lunson Mitchenall to aid its expansion plans. Lunson Mitchenall ’s occupier representation team will work with a group of joint agents to expand the UK business and its franchise partnerships. The fast food chain aims to open at least 30 outlets per year for the next three years. Sites are being sought ranging from 1,600 to 3,000 square feet in high footfall areas that don’t currently have a Burger King presence. Locations on the target list include transport interchanges, drive-thrus, retail parks, high-street locations and shopping centre food courts. Lunson Mitchenall will be responsible for sourcing outlets in East Anglia, the south east, south west and South Wales. Burger King UK property director Marc Balding said: “These are exciting times for the Burger King brand in the UK at present and I look forward to Lunson Mitchenall continuing to advise Burger King UK on our expansion.” Lunson Mitchenall director Matt Maynard added: “It is a really interesting time Read More

Tokyo Industries looks to exit four sites in ‘smaller UK towns’ as it focuses on international projects: Tokyo Industries, the bar and nightclub operator led by Aaron Mellor, is looking to exit four sites in “smaller UK towns” as the company focuses on international projects, Propel has learned. The company is seeking operators for its Tokyo venues in Bradford, Huddersfield, Lincoln and Oldham. Mellor told Propel: “Tokyo Huddersfield was one our first venues, in 2005. It is set in an incredible 1820s courthouse and has done amazing business for us but it’s time to change the offer. DJ-led talent alone in a town like Huddersfield can’t really work in terms of fees versus market capacity. We had also become heavily student dependant so a summer closure felt right. It’s a massive venue, built over a number of rooms and floors, and that needs volume to drive it – the local market is looking for something more commercial. As we become more excited on international projects, it seems the right time to move away from the smaller towns we operate in and look to lease on these original sites in Huddersfield, Lincoln, Bradford and Oldham. While the sites aren’t being formally Read More

Foxlow to close remaining sites: Foxlow, the neighbourhood restaurant from the founders of high-end steak brand Hawksmoor, is to shut its two remaining sites. Co-owner Will Beckett said the venues in Balham and Clerkenwell would close on Friday, 28 June as the company focuses on Hawksmoor. The group closed Soho Foxlow in April and sold the lease following the closure of Foxlows in Chiswick and Stoke Newington last year. Beckett, who owns both businesses with Hugh Gott, said: “After a fantastic six years we have made the decision to close the two remaining Foxlow restaurants. Once Soho closed, we started to receive further offers. We decided to sell Foxlow Clerkenwell and simultaneously close the Balham restaurant, which seems better to us than continuing to trade and leaving staff, suppliers and customers in a period of uncertainty. We’ll now focus on making sure those people are looked after in the right way. In the end we couldn’t see a future where Foxlow grew as a business. With Foxlow closed we will be able to focus exclusively on Hawksmoor, which continues to be extremely successful, and we are very proud it continues to thrive and grow. Many of the people who worked Read More

  Tonkotsu secures new investment as it eyes next phase of growth: Tonkotsu, the Emma Reynolds and Ken Yamada-founded ramen restaurant group, is planning further expansion after securing new investment from YFM Equity Partners, Propel has learned. YFM, which also backs healthy eating brand Friska, is investing £5m in the ten-strong Tonkotsu for a minority stake in the business. Reynolds and Yamada, who founded Tonkotsu in Soho in 2012, will continue to be involved in the business. At the same time, Propel understands entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den star Sarah Willingham, formerly of PizzaExpress and Bombay Bicycle Club, will become chairman of the business, which is led by managing director Stephen Evans and operates nine restaurants in London and one in Selfridges Birmingham, with two more due to open later this year in Peckham and Shoreditch. The company, which hopes to add a further three sites next year, is believed to have generated full-year turnover close to £7m. The company appointed advisers in October as it looked to secure new investment to fund its next stage of growth. The group appointed Grant Thornton and Will Baxter, of Dow Schofield Watts’ London office, to oversee the funding process. Propel revealed earlier this year Read More

Collins watching Arcadia situation closely as Loungers continues to build pipeline: Nick Collins, chief executive of cafe bar brand Loungers, has told Propel he’s keeping a close eye on the situation at Arcadia as his company continues to build its pipeline. Speaking on the back of Loungers’ full-year trading update, Collins said the pipeline for 2020 was “looking good”, while he was eyeing opportunities on an almost daily basis for the Lounges and Cosy Club brands, which now total 148 sites. Arcadia, owned by Sir Philip Green, is looking to shut 48 stores across brands such as Topshop and Miss Selfridge under seven different company voluntary arrangements (CVAs) as it bids to avoid administration. A proposed vote on the CVAs has been adjourned for a week while discussions continue with a “few landlords” and Collins said he was watching developments “with interest”. He added: “We are where we would expect to be in terms of the pipeline. We’re watching the Arcadia process closely. Given we mostly convert A1 sites to A3, there are certainly properties that might provide more opportunity for us, as may other CVAs that arise. We’re going through those opportunities and we’re in a good position to Read More

Flat Iron seeks further restaurant opening before August as it reports turnover boost: Flat Iron, the “single steak” dining concept backed by private equity firm Piper, is seeking a further opening before August while its mature sites are delivering “very strong” sales. Flat Iron said its two most recent restaurant openings – in London’s Caledonian Road and Tooley Street – were both trading ahead of expectations. The company, which has seven sites in the capital, has also made significant investment in its operations team to support growth. The announcement comes as Flat Iron reported turnover increased 23.6% to £14,476,916 for the year ending 26 August 2018, compared with £11,715,100 the year before despite not opening any sites. Adjusted Ebitda was down slightly to £1,303,054 compared with £1,352,083 the year before, according to accounts filed at Companies House. Gross profit margin fell to 31.4%, compared with 33.5% the previous year. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “As noted in last year’s report, having witnessed other restaurant operators struggling in the sector the directors decided to slow the opening of sites to monitor the increased availability of prime locations being offered to the company. This, together with construction delays Read More

O’Riordan becomes Caravan chairman: Jane O’Riordan, former group strategy director at Nando’s, has joined London-based restaurant, bar and coffee-roasting concept Caravan as chairman, Propel has learned. Earlier this year, O’Riordan became chairman of Caribbean restaurant chain Turtle Bay and also of Flight Club. O’Riordan has extensive knowledge of the leisure and hospitality space. She was managing director of Yellowwoods Associates (formerly Capricorn Associates) – a private equity and venture capital advisory firm involved in the strategic development of companies such as Nando’s and PizzaExpress. She was also director of strategy on the main board of Nando’s and is currently a member of the advisory board of Piper, the private equity company that backed Turtle Bay in 2013. O’Riordan also founded Antipodean-style cycling cafe and restaurant concept The Dynamo in Putney, south west London. Active Partners-backed Caravan operates five London sites – in King’s Cross, the City, Exmouth Market, Bankside and Fitzrovia. In February, co-founder Laura Harper-Hinton labelled trading at those sites as “fantastic”, with like-for-like sales up about 10%. Caravan founders Harper-Hinton, Miles Kirby and Chris Ammermann will launch a venture at The Pavilion in Chelsea this autumn featuring a new name, menu and design. Provenance Inns returns to pre-tax Read More

Coco di Mama experiencing ‘strong’ like-for-like growth, plans at least six sites in next 12 months: Azzurri Group-owned quick service Italian concept Coco di Mama is currently seeing "strong" like-for-like growth and aims to open another six sites in the next 12 months, Propel has learned. The announcement comes as Coco di Mama prepares to open its 22nd site, in Bishopsgate in the City of London, on Wednesday (5 June), with another outlet opening in Southbank next month. Head of brand Sara McCraight said the company had strong expansion plans, with growth remaining focused on London for the moment. She added: “We are currently seeing strong like-for-like sales growth and looking at various options in terms of our expansion as we continue to grow our brand awareness. We’re aiming for at least another six new sites over the next year.” Coco di Mama is best known for its made-to-order pasta that is customisable. The brand also serves Italian-inspired breakfast, salads, sandwiches and Allpress speciality coffee. The design of the Bishopsgate store features Milan-inspired modern interiors and features a hand-painted art wall by a local artist. Coco di Mama has chosen Bishopsgate for its latest site because it is a “high-energy Read More

Coppa Club reports 8.9% growth in like-for-likes for second quarter as it ramps up expansion: Coppa Club, the Hugh Osmond-backed concept, has reported an 8.9% growth in like-for-like sales in its second quarter as it ramps up expansion. The period covering January to March was boosted by the launch of summer igloos at Coppa Club Tower Bridge, which led to a 75% increase in pre-booking sales during the opening weekend compared with the same period last year. The brand, which operates five sites in London and the south east, is set to open its next venue in Berkshire in July as part of the £12m refurbishment of Osmond’s Thames-side venue The Swan at Streatley. The venue will be the biggest club to date, with a riverside terrace, library, lounges, gym and 47 bedrooms. As reported by Propel last week, another Coppa Club will launch in Brighton in August. Various Eateries group chief executive Sue Walter said: “Despite the challenges and uncertainty in our sector there remains one constant – people want to feel a sense of belonging and connection. We work hard to understand and integrate into our communities. This, along with our focus on delivering the best possible guest Read More

Pret to make Belgian debut: Pret A Manger, the JAB Holdings-owned chain, is to make its debut in Belgium. Pret has partnered with SNCB/NMBS, which is the national railway company of Belgium, and UK-based transport hub foodservice specialist SSP Group to open sites in two Brussels railway stations. The outlets at Brussels Midi and Brussels Central will open this year offering Pret’s traditional menu. Michael Haley, partnerships managing director at Pret, said: “We are delighted our first shops in Belgium will open soon. Our partnership with SSP began in France several years ago and we’re looking forward to working with it to open our first shops in Brussels.” Gérard d’Onofrio, managing director of SSP France and Benelux, added: “We are thrilled to partner with SNCB/NMBS and Pret to introduce an innovative new food and drink concept to Brussels. We’re looking forward to working with Pret to provide passengers at busy train stations in the city with Pret’s organic coffee and freshly prepared baguettes, salads and hot food.” Last week, Pret agreed a deal to buy circa 90-strong rival EAT, which was placed on the market earlier this year. Pret said in response to growing consumer demand for more vegetarian and Read More

TRG launches Indian delivery concept: The Restaurant Group (TRG), the Wagamama and Frankie & Benny’s operator, has launched a new delivery brand called Pyjama Hotel, Propel has learned. Propel understands TRG has taken space at the Foodstars unit in Battersea to produce the new Indian-style concept, which can be ordered through Just Eat or UberEats. Pyjama Hotel is describes itself as offering “a festival of Indian flavours, bringing colourful, vibrant, Indian favourites and new dishes to your door”. Propel understands TRG is also working on a further concept, which has the working title Jumping Pans. TRG already operates a number of virtual brands out of its Frankie & Benny’s and Chiquito estates, including Burger Burger and Kick Ass Burrito. Wagamama also operates out of the Deliveroo Editions site in Battersea. Earlier this year, it was revealed City Storage Systems, the delivery company run by former Uber boss Travis Kalanick, had acquired London “dark kitchens” company Foodstars last year. Foodstars, which was founded in Bethnal Green in 2015, now operates kitchen spaces across London, which it leases to restaurants focusing on selling food through delivery apps. Westbourne Leisure reports turnover and profit boost: West Midlands-based pub, restaurant and hotel operator Westbourne Read More

Patrick Dardis – Young’s has at least £70m available for acquisitions: Patrick Dardis, chief executive of London pub retailer Young’s, has told Propel the company has at least £70m available for acquisitions and can raise more if required. The funds will be available in July and Dardis said the company, which bought 15-strong Redcomb Pubs at the start of the year for £34m, was eyeing “various opportunities” ranging from companies with a “couple of sites” to “slightly larger” businesses. Speaking following Young’s full-year results, Dardis said: “We have got plenty of firepower to do deals and if something came up that needed a bit more money, we could raise those funds if needed. A lot of these opportunities are coming up from people approaching us rather than the other way round, and I think that says a lot about our reputation.” As well as potential deals and reopening previously acquired sites, Dardis said the company had a number of major capital projects planned, including a £4.6m investment in the Dog & Fox in Wimbledon, south west London. Dardis added Young’s also planned to revamp the Redcomb sites – “probably half this year and the other half next year” – meaning Read More

Jamie Oliver’s UK restaurant business ‘lost more in one year than it ever made in profit’: Jamie Oliver’s UK restaurant business lost £29m in one year – £5m more than it ever made in profit. The findings by the Daily Mail led to a high-street expert claiming the business “should have hit the panic alarm years ago”. The £29m loss in 2017 came to light after it emerged banks and suppliers could pursue Oliver personally for debts built up after he provided guarantees following a restructure two years ago. Oliver put his UK restaurant business into administration on Tuesday (21 May), which resulted in 22 of the 25 sites being shut and 1,000 staff made redundant. The latest accounts for Oliver’s main restaurant business, Jamie’s Italian, show the company made a loss of more than £29m on a turnover of £100m in 2017. However, in all its seven years in the black – 2009 to 2015 – the firm netted only £24m. In fact, despite turning over more than three quarters of a billion pounds between 2008 and 2017, Jamie’s Italian made a net loss of £15m during the period. Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant in Hoxton was operated by a different Read More

Coffeesmiths Collective appoints Willson-Rymer as chairman: Coffeesmiths Collective, the parent company of Department of Coffee and Social Affairs (DoCaSA), has appointed Darcy Willson-Rymer, former managing director of Starbucks UK and Ireland and current chief executive of convenience store chain Costcutter, as non-executive chairman, Propel has learned. Willson-Rymer, who spent more than four years as head of Starbucks UK and Ireland, was previously chief executive of Clinton Cards. Professor Stefan Allesch-Taylor, group chairman of Coffeesmiths Collective, said: “With his extensive experience in the coffee and retail sectors coupled with a passion for coffee, Darcy understands the opportunity the sector represents. Having Darcy as non-executive chairman of Coffeesmiths Collective, our rapidly growing UK retail business, means we’ll benefit from his expertise and guidance at this exciting time in our business’ development.” Willson-Rymer said: “The consumer love affair with coffee continues to grow. I see that every day from our retailers at Costcutter and I’m excited by the considerable opportunity for Coffeesmiths Collective to service the growing trend for speciality coffee shops. I look forward to working with the board at Coffeesmiths Collective as we look to build the business further in the UK and beyond.” Coffeesmiths Collective has made a number of Read More

Byron appoints Sophie Michell as food and drink director: Better burger brand Byron has appointed chef and food writer Sophie Michell as food and drink director. In her new role, Michell will use her extensive experience to develop all of Byron’s food and drink recipes, driving the brand’s menus in an “exciting new direction”. She joins Byron, which is backed by private equity firm Three Hills Capital, having worked in professional kitchens for more than 20 years, including executive chef of Belgraves Hotel and Home House. Michell is also part of the team behind Gorgeous Kitchen at Heathrow Terminal 2. Michell has also forged a career as a food writer and television presenter, publishing eight cookbooks and hosting television shows such as Cook Yourself Thin. Byron chief executive Simon Wilkinson said: “Sophie’s appointment is the first key strategic initiative in our overall plan to position the brand to be the best in what is a rapidly changing market. Sophie has forged an impressive career and we’re delighted she will join Byron as food director. Sophie’s expertise, passion and enthusiasm for food will put new ideas and energy into Byron’s recipes and menus as we drive the brand forward.” Michell added: Read More

Established sector operators ramp up virtual brands roll-out: The Restaurant Group (TRG) and Casual Dining Group (CDG) have both made significant inroads into the virtual delivery sector, including the launch of a couple of brands. At the same time, PizzaExpress has launched a dedicated PizzaExpress Vegan delivery option out of a number of its sites across the country. CDG has already rolled out virtual brand Blazing Bird across about 40 of its Las Iguanas sites and has quietly launched a further brand – Bang Bang Burritos – out of a similar number of restaurants. The James Spragg-led company also operates virtual brands Stack & Grill and Chef & Rooster out of some of its Cafe Rouge sites, and Mac N Shack out of some of its Bella Italia restaurants. At the same time TRG, which launched virtual brands Burger Burger and Kick Ass Burrito last year through its Frankie & Benny’s and Chiquito concepts respectively, has added a further two virtual brands to its portfolio. Through Chiquito it now offers the Cornstar Tacos virtual brand in circa 40 sites, while the new Birdbox brand, which focuses on chicken and burgers, is available through Frankie & Benny’s. Wasabi ‘trading strongly’ so Read More

Administrators’ investigations into Burning Night provide ‘foundation for action against third parties’: Administrators of bar company Burning Night Group have revealed their ongoing investigations have “provided the foundation for actions against third parties that could lead to recoveries for the benefit of the estate”. In their progress report Andrew Mackenzie and Julian Pitts, of Begbies Traynor, said the administration process was “complex”, while a “significant number of matters needed to be dealt with”. The report stated: “We have a duty to examine the conduct of the company and its directors to identify what assets are available to realise for the benefit of the creditors, including any actions against directors or other parties, such as challenging transactions at undervalue or preferences. Detailed forensic investigations have been carried out (and are ongoing) into the conduct of the company, its directors and other connected third parties. This has included examining the company’s books and records in our possession, both electronic and hard copy, information provided by third parties, creditors and the company’s advisors. Our in-house forensic team has carried out detailed investigations and forensic analysis of the company’s records, including bank statement analysis and forensic review of the company’s accounting systems. Considerable investigative Read More

Industry leaders secure debut site for quick service chicken brand Chiktopia:Chiktopia, the better chicken concept led by former Ole & Steen UK operations director Alastair Gordon and backed by a group of senior industry figures, has secured its debut site. The concept will open at the new multimillion-pound leisure extension at Intu Lakeside, Essex, in July. The 120-cover site will serve fried and grilled chicken burgers and tenders, skinny fries, salads, wraps, vegan and vegetarian options and thick dairy shakes. Gordon told Propel the team would be concentrating on the Lakeside site this year to make sure the offer was "absolutely right" before looking at potential expansion. He said: "We think we have a compelling offer with an excellent price point that I think will surprise a lot of people, but the rest of this year will be about spending the time working out what works and what doesn't. We've been in this game long enough to know we can't just start a mass roll-out. When you look at our competitors – Nando’s, KFC and McDonald's – they are flourishing in the current market, so we think this is a great time to be launching.” Chiktopia’s advisers include Dan Einzig, Read More

The Restaurant Group to open first Food & Fuel site since acquisition: The Restaurant Group (TRG) will open its first Food & Fuel site since it acquired the 11-strong business last year in a circa £15m deal. The company is transforming its Cafe Rouge site in Strand On The Green, Chiswick, ahead of relaunching it in July as The Steam Packet. The Cafe Rouge venue closed on 17 March having been at the location since 2005. Previously the site was occupied by Dome restaurant and the venue will revert to its former guise in the 1870s as the Steam Packet pub. Food & Fuel also operates The Roebuck in Chiswick High Road. Meanwhile, TRG-owned pub business Brunning & Price will open the Plough & Harrow in the Malvern Hills and The Roe Deer near Kidderminster this summer. At its full-year trading update last week, TRG said its six single-site Brunning & Price acquisitions were trading well and it expects to open at least seven venues in 2019. It added: “We have now refurbished three of the Ribble Valley sites and these are delivering a sales uplift in excess of 30% post-refurbishment. The Food & Fuel sites are trading in line Read More

Capdesia sees ‘amazing potential’ in Wasabi, eyes franchising: London-based private equity firm Capdesia, which late last week acquired a minority stake in Wasabi, has told Propel its sees “amazing potential” for the sushi and bento brand in the UK and internationally. Capdesia invested in the 60-strong business last week, with co-investment coming from Sushiro Global Holdings, Japan’s largest publicly-listed sushi chain operator, and Regis Group, a leading US and UK asset manager. Ashton Crosby, co-founder and managing director of Capdesia, told Propel the immediate focus would be to make the business even more robust, with new processes set to implemented. He said the new investors were convinced there were a “significant amount of opportunities for the business, both in the UK and overseas”. He said: “With a price point just north of McDonald’s, strong customer loyalty and a healthy product, the potential for expansion is enormous.” Propel understands Capdesia will look to complement the existing management team led by founder Dong Hyun Kim and has already appointed Randeep Bansal, who was previously head of estates at Pret A Manger, as Wasabi’s new property director. Propel understands the company will also look to hire someone in franchising when it starts to explore Read More

Strong sales across board driving Wetherspoon like-for-like growth: JD Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin has told Propel strong sales across the board are helping drive its like-for-like growth. Like-for-like sales increased 7.6% and total sales were up 8.4% in the 13 weeks to 28 April 2019. Year to date, like-for-like sales have increased 6.8% and total sales have risen 7.6%. Martin said: “Gin, craft beer, coffee, ale and soft drinks have all been strong. The ‘old favourites’ such as fish and chips are doing well but so are smashed avocado muffins and vegetarian meals. We try to keep price rises as modest as possible.” Martin said the company has now spent about a quarter of a billion pounds on freehold reversions in the past six or seven years, with £70.9m in the current financial year. He added: “It increases financial risk through exposure to banks but makes modest savings on rent versus interest. I believe further spending on that front for the rest of the year will be modest.” Wetherspoon is set to open five pubs in the current year and Martin hopes the rate will eventually step up again as the company reorganises its estate having previously over-expanded in some Read More

Last-minute restaurant deals app Wriggle returns to Seedrs in bid to raise £600,000: Last-minute restaurant deals app Wriggle has returned to crowdfunding platform Seedrs in a bid to raise £600,000 for its next stage of growth. The company, which was launched in Bristol in 2014 by Rob Hall, acts as a restaurant discovery tool and offers users same-day discounts to fill excess capacity. It is offering 10.45% equity in return for the investment, giving the company a pre-money valuation of £5,140,320. At time of going to press, the campaign was already 85% funded after 155 investors pledged £510,555. The pitch states: “Wriggle is a market-leading eat-out transactional platform in three cities – Bristol, Brighton and Cardiff – with a model currently generating more than 20,000 transactions per month (March 2019). After keeping things tight and proving our model, Wriggle is ready to scale up and attack our vision of creating a national consumer champion, supporting the best eat-out establishments across the country. This round of investment is to achieve three things. Firstly, geographic growth with launches in new cities across the UK. Secondly, to grow revenue within existing cities. We have only just begun in existing markets and will continue Read More

Corbin & King lines up second Wolesley site, gets go-head for Soho seafood restaurant: London-based restaurant group Corbin & King is set to open a second Wolesley restaurant in the city. The company is planning to open the venue in a former House of Fraser store near London Bridge. The 98,000 square foot building in King William Street has been bought by US private equity firm Ares Management, which plans to convert the ground floor of the building to a restaurant, which will be the second London location of the Wolseley. The upper floors of the nine-storey building will be refurbished as offices, reports Biznow. Meanwhile, Corbin & King has also been granted permission for a proposed seafood restaurant in Soho. Westminster Council has given the go-ahead for the company’s plans at 1-8 Bateman’s Buildings, which will also incorporate 55 Greek Street. According to the planning documents, Corbin & King is proposing a 241-cover restaurant, with 44 additional covers on an outdoor terrace; a ground floor bar and dining room, and another, “more formal” dining room above, together with a private dining room. Last week, Corbin & King opened Soutine in St John’s Wood for its ninth venue in the Read More

BrewDog updates on bars pipeline, rolls out hot-desking initiative, crowdfunding campaign passes £2m: Scottish brewer and retailer BrewDog has updated on its bar pipeline while it has begun rolling out its hot-desking concept, DeskDog. The company has also seen its latest Equity for Punks crowdfunding campaign pass the £2m mark. BrewDog’s next bar will open in Market Street, Inverurie, on Friday, 17 May. On the same day it will unveil the new-look taproom for Hawkes Cider at its home in Druids Street, London. BrewDog invested in the cider producer last year. BrewDog’s next European site will open in Hamburg in June followed by its second French bar, in Nice. Meanwhile, its second brewpub – in Oxford Road, Manchester – is set to be its third opening of the month. BrewDog is also planning refurbishments for its two Leeds sites as well as venues in Japan, Brussels and Oslo. Renovations are also set to take place at two Draft House pubs – Tower Bridge and Columbia Road. Meanwhile, having trialled DeskDog at four sites, the company has rolled it out to about 30 venues, including Barcelona, Bristol, Oxford and York. Remote workers can pay £7 for access to Wi-Fi, unlimited coffee and Read More

Whitbread plans hub by Premier Inn trials in regional cities, UK growth focusing on returns rather than speed: Whitbread chief executive Alison Brittain has said the company is planning trials of its hub by Premier Inn format in regional cities and is focusing UK growth on “returns rather than speed”. The company has only opened hub by Premier Inns in London and Edinburgh so far, with ten sites across the two capitals. However, in a presentation to investors and analysts Brittain said the company would bring the format to other locations, with Bath, Manchester and Oxford among places identified as suitable. She said it was part of Whitbread’s plans to expand hub by Premier Inn as well as its new ZIP format, which gives the company a potential runway for growth in the UK beyond the 10,000 bedrooms announced at the capital markets day in February. Brittain said the debut ZIP site, which launched in Cardiff in February, was showing “promising signs” and was proving particularly popular on Saturday nights. She added: “We have got very clear line of sight in terms of growth and I don’t think we are reaching saturation point. In Germany we would like to accelerate Read More

Doughnut Time to hit dozen with latest London launches as it eyes further sites:Australian chain Doughnut Time has launched its latest London site, in Finsbury Avenue Square. The brand is catering to busy workers in the City from its food truck, Beverly. Doughnut Time will follow this by opening its 12th site in the capital, in Upper Street, Islington, on Saturday (4 May) as it looks to open more permanent sites as well as pop-ups. Owner Tom Anderson said: “Our London-wide roll-out continues at pace. We’re delighted to bring our food truck Beverly to City workers in Finsbury Avenue Square and can’t wait to bring all the hype and hysteria around Doughnut Time to the great people of Islington too. We now have a dozen stores and agreements in place to open many more in the coming months. We’re continually looking for additional permanent sites as well as pop-up locations across the capital.” Doughnut Time is known for its pop culture-inspired doughnuts such as the Bueno Mars and Snicki Minaj. Damian Griffith founded Doughnut Time in 2015. It operates 23 sites in Australia. The company also operates the world’s first doughnut academy above its flagship Soho store. Paul looks at Read More

Olivier Blanc to launch ‘eco’ street kitchen concept in Wandsworth next month:Olivier Blanc, son of Raymond Blanc, is to launch an “eco” street kitchen concept in Wandsworth, south west London, in partnership with chef and food sustainability consultant Pascal Gerrard. StreetCube will open in the piazza of the Southside Centre next month. The concept will serve sustainable food to go while being committed to reducing CO2 levels, eliminating plastic waste and developing a food system that’s “regenerative, sustainable and healthier for people and the planet”. StreetCube kitchens will be placed in high-footfall locations in the UK, allowing chefs to open quickly on affordable, easy-in/out licences ranging from six months to more than five years and avoiding “crippling rents and premiums that force more than 95% of restaurants to close within the first year”. Blanc said: “We want to bridge the gap between cooking from a gazebo and struggling to open an A3 premises, which few independent chefs can afford. We want to facilitate and support better creativity, individuality and character for young independent chefs who can experiment and try new ideas in sustainable gastronomy.” Gerrard added: “We also want to make sure people have access to more affordable, organic, locally Read More

Adnams reports trading in pubs ahead of last year: Suffolk brewer and retailer Adnams has said trading in its pubs in the first quarter of 2019 has been ahead of last year. The company, which operates circa 45 managed and tenanted pubs in and around East Anglia, also said a new system aimed at countering cost and margin pressures in its drinks business had now “gone live”. It added the project, along with “continuing economic and political uncertainty” would have an impact on its first-half results. At its annual general meeting, the company stated: “In the first quarter of 2019 our beer volumes were ahead of the equivalent quarter of 2018 although the margin pressure we have reported in recent periods has continued. Our low-alcohol Ghost Ship (0.5% ABV) has made an excellent start in a fast-growing market and has very good prospects. Spirits volumes were down on 2018 as, despite strong market growth, our gins have faced increasing competition from a rapidly rising number of producers and a fast-expanding range of flavoured drinks. Our shops and pubs have traded well in the first quarter and are ahead of last year despite a smaller estate. We were pleased to launch Read More

YO! begins concessions trial with David Lloyd Clubs: YO! Sushi, the Richard Hodgson-led group, is to extend the concessions side of its operation after launching a trial within health and leisure business David Lloyd Clubs, Propel has learned. The group, which is currently in the midst of a two-site concessions trial with Tesco, has launched units in five David Lloyd sites in the UK – Beckenham, Cheadle, Hatfield, Milton Keynes and Leeds. The company told Propel the trial was “going exceptionally well”, with gym-goers appreciating the “high-quality fresh and healthy Japanese food we are providing”. The trial is part of the company’s focus on developing opportunities with retailers and health clubs. Late last year, YO! agreed a deal with Tesco to pilot YO! To Go counters at two UK stores – in Surrey and Bournemouth. Earlier this week, YO! announced it was to eliminate the conveyor belt from some of its restaurants in an attempt to broaden its appeal. It will establish its first restaurant without the kaiten belt snaking around the premises at Westfield shopping centre in east London. It will also remove the belt at its Manchester Piccadilly station site. Hodgson said the change was “probably the biggest Read More

Caravan team to launch new concept in Chelsea: The team behind London-based restaurant, bar and coffee-roasting concept Caravan is to launch a new venture in Chelsea’s Duke of York Square. Founders Laura Harper-Hinton, Miles Kirby and Chris Ammermann will launch the venture at The Pavilion this autumn, complete with new name, menu and design. Active Partners-backed Caravan currently operates five London sites – in King’s Cross, the City, Exmouth Market, Bankside and Fitzrovia. In February, Harper-Hinton told Propel current trading at those sites was “fantastic”, with like-for-like sales up about 10%. For the year to 30 June 2018, the company saw like-for-likes grow 1.3% against a “challenging backdrop of strong sales in the previous year” and disruptive weather. Total sales in the year grew 31.7%, from £7,186,391 to £9,435,682. The company took a small step back in terms of Ebitda year-on-year, down from £284,281 to £173,751, due to a one-off investment in additional head office capability and the “ongoing backdrop of cost increases affecting the businesses in our sector”. Speaking in February regarding potential expansion, Harper-Hinton said: “We are looking at a couple of things. We’re keen to keep growing but at a sensible pace while making sure we’re picking Read More

The Restaurant Group appoints new people and finance directors: The Restaurant Group (TRG) has appointed Bridget Hutchinson, formerly of Whitbread, Bill’s and Prezzo, as its new people director, Propel has learned. Hutchinson joins the Wagamama and Frankie & Benny’s operator after brief stints as interim people director at both Bill’s and Prezzo. Previous to that, she was interim head of HR shared services at Sainsbury’s and at Whitbread. TRG has also appointed Matt Crumpler as its new finance director. Crumpler only joined the business as financial controller in January, before being promoted at the start of this month. He was previously financial controller at Virgin Active for more than five years and before that a senior group reporting manager at Whitbread for more than two years. TRG is currently seeking a new chief executive, after announcing earlier this year current boss Andy McCue was to leave the business. One new name linked to the search process is former Spirit Pub Company chief operating officer Alan Morgan, who will leave the Rank Group later this summer. The listed casino and bingo operator confirmed the departure of Morgan as managing director of its UK retail business earlier this month. Morgan tendered his Read More

TRG boss sees remuneration fall after missing out on bonus: The Restaurant Group chief executive Andy McCue saw his remuneration drop in 2018 after missing out on his annual bonus, the company’s annual report has revealed. McCue, who announced in February he would step down for personal reasons, was paid a total of £729,500 for the year ending 31 December 2018, compared with £1,116,000 the previous year. This consisted of £515,500 salary, £113,000 in taxable benefits and £101,000 pension. In relation to bonus, the remuneration committee set adjusted profit before tax targets and like-for-like sales targets, which were not met, and stretching employee engagement targets, which were met in part. However, for any bonus potential to be paid the threshold of £57m adjusted profit before tax had to be achieved and, since this wasn’t reached, there was no bonus paid. McCue’s salary was raised 1.98% on 1 January 2019 to £525,500, while the average increase for managerial employees across the group was 2.1%. Meanwhile, Kirk Davis received total remuneration of £394,000 in his first full year in office, which consisted of £320,000 salary, £10,000 in taxable benefits and £64,000 pension. Davis has received a 2% salary increase to £362,100. For Read More

Bill’s reports like-for-likes up 12.2% in March as it rolls out next wave of new-look sites: Bill’s Restaurants, owned by Richard Caring, has reported like-for-like sales rose 12.2% in March as the company rolls out the next wave of new-look sites across its estate and eyes new sites. Bill’s has already converted 13 restaurants to the upgraded format and the company said these were all “significantly outperforming” the rest of the estate in like-for-like sales. A further 11 upgraded restaurants will open in the second quarter of this year, starting in Leeds. Bill’s founder Bill Collison, who is overseeing the new-look roll-out, said: “My aim is to create a welcoming and vibrant environment that transcends all dining times but, importantly, provides a trusted space customers feel comfortable in to have an evening meal.” Executive chairman David Campbell added: “The past six months have seen strong growth for Bill’s as we renewed our focus on healthy and indulgent seasonal food. The interior of the restaurants is also integral to our customer experience so with the new-look sites outperforming the rest of the estate, we are keen to expand the programme. We are also looking at some exciting new locations.” Collison founded Read More

TRG Concessions launches all-day grab-and-go concept for Eurostar passengers at St Pancras: The Restaurant Group (TRG) Concessions has opened a new all-day grab-and-go kitchen and bar concept, at the Eurostar terminal at St Pancras International in London. The company has launched The Station Pantry in a 1,416 square foot unit in the departure lounge, which has been developed with "Eurostar’s passengers and current food trends in mind". The Station Pantry is "premium, fast and fresh", offering speciality coffee, craft beer on tap and ample vegan and vegetarian food options. There is also a digital food and drink pre-ordering facility available to passengers via the Eurostar website and app. TRG Concessions managing director Nick Ayerst said: “We are delighted to add a new brand to our portfolio that will resonate with Eurostar’s passengers and provide great 'take on board' and sit-down meal options in the busy departure lounge.” Jonathan Fletcher, head of procurement and property at Eurostar, added: “We are thrilled to see our ongoing partnership with TRG Concessions bring a fresh dining and bar concept to the Eurostar lounge.” East Coast Concepts considers appeal after Neighourhood site in Manchester has licence revoked: East Coast Concepts is considering an appeal after Read More

Beannchor Group reports turnover passes £25m: Northern Ireland hospitality company Beannchor Group has reported turnover increased 9% to £25,811,900 for the year ending 30 June 2018, compared with £23,682,580 the previous year. Operating profit almost doubled to £11,196,442, compared with £5,670,818 the year before. Pre-tax profit was down to £2,054,680 compared with £3,183,296 the previous year, according to accounts filed at Companies House. In their report accompanying the accounts, the directors stated: “Competition in the market place remains strong. That said, turnover increased by £2,129,320 (9%) in the year following the opening of a hotel in October 2017 and the acquisition of a number of licensed establishments. The directors consider the results for the year to be satisfactory. The external commercial environment is expected to remain competitive. While the directors expect a difficult trading year ahead they will continue to seek every opportunity to increase turnover and operating profit where possible.” Beannchor Group owns pubs, hotels and restaurants across Northern Ireland including National Grande Cafe/sixty6 and The Dirty Onion as well as eight Little Wing Pizzeria sites. Hubbox begins eastern promise after securing Portsmouth site: Hubbox, the Richard Boon-led restaurant business, is to make a first move out of its Read More

Azzurri Group appoints new finance directors for ASK and Zizzi: Azzurri Group, the Bridgepoint-backed operator, has appointed new finance directors for its two casual dining brands, ASK Italian and Zizzi, Propel has learned. Karen Sweetman has joined Zizzi as finance director from Navitas, having previously worked at Homebase as head of trading finance and business accounting services. The appointment follows the recent promotion of Chris Webb to finance director of ASK Italian. Azzurri chief executive Stephen Holmes told Propel: “Karen’s appointment reflects the brand’s ongoing success in the UK as well as its continued expansion into Ireland and, most recently, China. Chris has worked for Azzurri Group for seven years and his appointment as finance director is a reflection of ASK’s leading position in the Italian casual dining sector and its ability to develop talent through to senior positions within the business.” Both roles continue to report into Lindsay Dunsmuir, Azzurri Group chief financial officer. Dunsmuir joined Azzurri last year from Maplin replacing Jim Pickworth, who had been with Azzurri for 11 years. Pickworth subsequently joined New World Trading Company as its chief financial officer. Operators secured for new Westfield London food court: The first tranche of operators, including Pizza Read More

Coaching Inn Group reports turnover and Ebitda boost: Coaching inn operator The Coaching Inn Group has reported a 24% increase in sales as turnover hit £24.7m for the 52 weeks to 31 March 2019. The company saw turnover reach £24.7m, up from £20.0m in the previous year. Like-for-like sales were up 8.3% during the period, with weekly net sales averaging £32,200 per site across the estate. While audited accounts have yet to be produced, the company is forecasting a 52% increase in underlying Ebitda to £3.2m, up from £2.1m in 2018, as well as an increase in site Ebitda to £5.7m – an annualised average of more than £385,000 per site – as the business grew to 15 sites after acquiring the Swan Hotel in Stafford at the end of June, bringing the estate to 431 bedrooms in total. The company also announced plans for further investment in its estate with more than £750,000 to be spent in the next three months on refurbishment projects at the Feathers Hotel in Ledbury and the Talbot Hotel in Oundle. Chief executive Kevin Charity said: “It has been another excellent year for the company and we have achieved a great deal over the Read More

Wagamama appoints new chief marketing officer: Wagamama, The Restaurant Group-owned business, has appointed Ross Farquhar as its new chief marketing officer, Propel has learned. Farquhar was previously managing partner at Grey London, looking after key accounts such as Lucozade Ribena Suntory and acting as the European business lead for Proctor & Gamble. He also spent more than six years at the creative agency as managing partner. Farquhar will report into Emma Woods, who stepped up to chief executive of Wagamama at the turn of the year on completion of its acquisition by The Restaurant Group. In September, Woods’ former role of chief growth officer was taken by Caroline Cromar, Pret A Manger’s former brand director. Earlier this month, Wagamama reported turnover increased 13.2% to £81.6m in quarter three to 3 February 2019, with 9.1% UK like-for-like sales growth and 10% US like-for-like sales growth. Grind closes crowdfunding campaign after hitting £3.5m capped target: Coffee and cocktail brand Grind has closed its campaign on crowdfunding platform Crowdcube after hitting its capped £3.5m target. The company’s initial target of £1.35m was smashed within 24 hours of the campaign going public. Grind was offering 6.12% of its equity for the £1.35m investment, giving Read More

True financial position of Patisserie Valerie prior to administration still not determined: The true financial position of Patisserie Valerie prior to its collapse into administration has still to be determined, according to a new document. A progress report by its administrators, KPMG, said analysis by a team of forensic accountants had concluded the accounts had been overstated by about £94m – more than twice the previous estimate of £40m. But the true financial position is still not fully known, according to a notice of the statement of affairs, which has just been filed at Companies House. In his statement of concurrence, former chairman Luke Johnson said: “Serious accounting irregularities were discovered in the company’s and group’s accounts in October/November 2018. These resulted in the corruption of the group’s accounting record and possible significant accounting misstatements in its past audited financial statements, including thousands of historic erroneous bookkeeping entries. According to the forensic accountants investigating the matter, the misstatement of the company’s accounts was extensive, involving significant manipulation of the balance sheet and profit and loss accounts. As a result it is my understanding it hasn’t been possible to complete the statement of affairs for the company to the normal required Read More

Deep Blue Restaurants expects further expansion in 2019, turnover up 59.5%:Fish and chip brand Deep Blue Restaurants has taken its UK portfolio to 35 sites and expects further expansion this year. The company has added sites in Paulsgrove in Hampshire; Bridlington, Catterick and Helmsley, all in Yorkshire; and Barnard Castle in County Durham to the estate over the past 12 months. The group said its acquisition pipeline remained strong while the rebranding programme relating to the eight outlets that don’t carry the Deep Blue brand would continue in 2019, funded by cash flow. The announcement comes as Deep Blue Restaurants reported sales increased 54.5% to £11,649,226 for the year ending 25 September 2018, compared with £7,541,402 the year before. Ebitda, including central costs, rose 68.9% to £908,384, compared with £537,598 the previous year following the acquisition of ten stores during the period and the disposal of its Harrogate outlet. Site Ebitda was up to £1,919,938 compared with £1,381,789 the year before, while like-for-like sales grew 2.2%. Gross margin reduced to 67.3% compared with 68.5% the previous year due to the “continued effects of food inflation and reduction in the value of sterling”. Due to a combination of £4.19m debt conversion Read More

New-York based hotdog concept Nathan’s Famous lines up UK sites: New-York based hotdog concept Nathan’s Famous is heading to the UK. Sites have been lined up in Bournemouth and Southampton with RBA Restaurants UK, which has a registered address in Christchurch, leading the roll-out in Britain. RBA Restaurants UK has applied to Bournemouth Council to move into the former Heroes karaoke bar in Jaycee House in Old Christchurch Road, reports the Daily Echo. In its planning statement, RBA Restaurants UK said an outlet was also proposed in Southampton. The application stated: “The vibrancy and the popularity of the area has encouraged the American restaurant chain Nathan’s Famous to venture into the UK. It is a worldwide company founded in Brooklyn, New York, in 1916. The original Nathan’s Famous hotdog stand has opened every day and still operates in Coney Island.” That stall was founded by Polish immigrant Nathan Handwerker and launched with a Fourth of July hotdog eating contest that survives to this day. Splendid Restaurants transforms two former Jack & Alice sites into new concept Coluco: Splendid Restaurants is transforming two former Jack & Alice sites into cafe bar concept Coluco. The company has launched the format in Tring, Read More

Pret A Manger rolls out free filtered water fountains to 250 UK stores: Pret A Manger, the JAB Holdings-owned group, has further rolled out filtered water fountains to its UK stores in a bid to help customers cut their use of plastic bottles. The move means 250 of Pret’s UK stores now offer free filtered water through the initiative. All the stores are listed on the Refill app and anyone can “fill up for free”, regardless of whether they make a purchase at Pret. There are plans to install 35 more units this year, which would make free filtered water available in more than 95% of Pret stores. In the 90 sites where it wasn’t operationally possible to install fountains, free filtered water is available behind the counter for people to want to refill their water bottles. Laura Gutowski, Pret A Manger director of strategy and sustainability, said: “We have installed filtered water fountains in all our shops with enough space front of house. The fountains are easy to spot and we want everyone – not just Pret customers – to feel able to come in and fill up for free without hesitation. If each of our water stations is Read More

Le Pain Quotidien to give entire service charge to staff: Belgian restaurant and boulangerie brand Le Pain Quotidien is ending its practice of pocketing some of the service charge left by customers for its staff. Currently, all bills have a 12.5% service charge added as standard – but 40p in every £1 of this is kept by the company. That rate was cut from 60p in the £1 in November. From next month, the whole service charge will be distributed in a “fair” way among staff in Le Pain Quotidien’s 30 UK sites in and around London. The government has promised to pass laws to end the practice of restaurants keeping tips – but these have yet to materialise. Dave Turnbull, Unite regional officer, told The Mail on Sunday: “It’s good [Le Pain Quotidien] has at last woken up to the need to be fair and transparent on tips and service charge. We very much hope other companies will follow Le Pain Quotidien’s lead.” A Le Pain Quotidien spokeswoman said: “We have been working with an independent management company to distribute the service charge in total in a fair and equitable way for all participants.” Young joins Wadworth as operations Read More

YO! seeks to consolidate restaurant estate: YO! Sushi, the Mayfair Equity Partners-backed group, has placed a package of six UK sites on the market as it looks to consolidate its restaurant estate and further pivot towards becoming a multi-channel, multi-platform business. Propel has learned the Richard Hodgson-led group has appointed property advisor GCW to market its sites in Aberdeen Bon Accord, Bath, Chelmsford, Glasgow Fort, Oxford and in the Whiteley Shopping Centre, Hampshire. The company, which operates circa 70 sites in the UK, has already closed the sites in Aberdeen, Bath and Oxford. During the past 18 months the company has moved to diversify its business model by acquiring Bento Sushi, one of the largest sushi brands in North America, and leading wholesaler Taiko to meet growing demand for sushi via restaurants, kiosks and supermarkets. A YO! Sushi spokesman said: “As is normal with a large and established brand, we continually review our estate to make sure we have the best proposition in the right site and right location. In line with the wider company strategy to focus on building a multi-brand, multi-platform business, we have decided to consolidate parts of the current restaurant estate, including these six restaurants.” Late Read More

YFM in advanced talks to back Tonkotsu: Leeds-based investment firm YFM Equity Partners is in talks to back Tonkotsu, the Emma Reynolds and Ken Yamada-founded ramen concept, Propel has learned. It is understood YFM, which also backs Friska, Bagel Nash and leisure brand Go Outdoors, is in advanced talks to take a stake in ten-strong Tonkotsu and back its ongoing expansion. Tonkotsu, which is led by Stephen Evans, former development director of Gourmet Burger Kitchen, appointed advisers in October as it looked to secure new investment to fund its next stage of growth. The group appointed Grant Thornton and Dow Schofield Watts to oversee the funding process. London-based Tonkotsu, which was founded by Reynolds and Yamada in Soho in 2012, is believed to have generated full-year turnover close to £7m. The business opened its latest site, at Dicken’s Yard, Ealing, in November. Tonkotsu also operates two concessions at Selfridges in Birmingham and London’s Oxford Street. It is thought to be close to opening a further site in Peckham, while a further opening for this year has been mooted for Shoreditch. YFM acquired a minority stake in healthy eating brand Friska for £3m in summer 2017 to support its expansion plans. Read More

Department for Coffee and Social Affairs takes on Nordic Bakery business:Department for Coffee and Social Affairs (DoCaSA), the fast-growing coffee chain and wholesaling group, has further strengthened its presence in central London by acquiring the Nordic Bakery business, Propel has learned. Scandinavian baker and coffee shop Nordic Bakery was sold out of administration last year for £40,000 to one of the company’s directors, Markku Launonen. It has disposed of three sites – in Covent Garden, New Cavendish Street and Dorset Street – but continued to trade from its flagship site in Golden Square, Soho. DoCaSA has now taken on the business from Launonen and will run the Golden Square site. The company’s parent company, Coffeesmith Collective, recently took a majority stake in Brighton-based, seven-strong Small Batch Coffee, which was previously backed by sector investor Luke Johnson. During the past few months it has also acquired Baker & Spice, the Patisserie Holdings brand; Bea’s of Bloomsbury; Tap Coffee; mobile coffee brand Café 2 U; and two Bristol-based independent coffee shops. The company has also acquired the Urban Tea Rooms business, which has sites in London’s Kingly Street and St James’s Market. At the same time, it has taken stakes in Bristol-based Read More

TRG enters supermarket concessions sector: The Restaurant Group (TRG) has become the latest operator to expand into the supermarket concessions sector with the trial of Lebanese and salad bar counter concepts with Sainsbury’s. The trial includes the launch of salad bar concept Grains and Greens in Sainsbury’s stores in Merton, south west London; Heyford Hill, Oxford; and Springfield, Chelmsford. At the same time Lebanese concept Mezze Box is being trialled at two of the retailer’s London stores, in Clapham High Street and Richmond. TRG follows YO! Sushi, Patisserie Valerie, Wasabi, Crussh and Azzurri Group-owned Zizzi in trialling counter concessions in UK supermarkets. As revealed by Propel last week, Zizzi recently ended its partnership with Sainsbury’s in which it piloted an in-store concession. The company launched the trial at the supermarket’s store in Balham, south London, at the end of 2017. Azzurri chief executive Steve Holmes told Propel: “We were testing to see if a ‘hot food to eat imminently’ occasion through this channel was a growth one as customers are increasingly looking to replicate restaurant experiences at home, as we see in the rapid growth of Deliveroo. Unfortunately, it seems customers are still very much in ‘grocery mode’ while shopping Read More

West Berkshire Brewery launches £3.5m fund-raise for next stage of growth:West Berkshire Brewery, the David Bruce-chaired group, is looking to raise up to £3.5m to aid further growth of its brewing and pub operations, Propel has learned. The fund-raise is understood to be the last chance to invest in the business under the Enterprise Investment Scheme. The funding will be used to support working capital demands, drive profitability through existing operations and additional capital expenditure where necessary, and pub acquisitions. Forecast revenues for the company for the year to the end of March 2019 are £6.6m, up 97% on the prior year, with the company targeting full-year turnover of more than £13m to the end of March 2020 with Ebitda of circa £1.3m. The company currently operates three pubs under its own vehicle – The Depot in Holloway; The Grapes in Oxford; and the Taproom & Kitchen at its brewery development – plus two London pubs, The Old Suffolk Punch in Hammersmith and The Oxford Tavern in Kentish Town under its Downing Pubs joint venture Maverick Pubs. Earlier this year, the group acquired The Grapes in Oxford’s George Street from City Pub Group. Last year, the company appointed long-time finance Read More

Zia Lucia founders plan pasta concept: The founders of the Zia Lucia pizza format plan to launch a pasta concept in Islington, north London. The pasta restaurant, Berto, will feature an open kitchen, 40-plus covers and a large counter. It is set to open in May close to the group’s Zia Lucia site in Holloway Road. Zia Lucia, which is Italian for “Auntie Lucia”, is the brainchild of Claudio Vescovo and Gianluca D’Angelo and launched in Holloway Road in 2016. It has since opened sites in Brook Green and Boxpark Wembley. It’s thought a fourth Zia Lucia site is set to open this summer, with Aldgate a mooted destination. The group is understood to have plans to open five restaurants in London during the next four years. Zia Lucia offers wood-fired pizza, with bases made from 48-hour fermented dough. The menu also features Italian-style starters, seasonal specials, salads and desserts. The drinks menu focuses on spritzers, negronis, bottled beer from Italy and local brewers, and wine and prosecco sourced from small Italian producers. VQ trials takeaway and delivery concept: VQ Restaurants, the extended-hours restaurant concept, is trialling a takeaway and delivery concept in Clapham, south west London, which it will Read More

Herman ze German to open first UK site outside London, in Birmingham next month: Sausage specialist Herman ze German is to open its first UK site outside London and fifth in total, in Birmingham next month. The 42-cover, 700 square foot site will launch in Grand Central on Monday, 1 April offering the brand’s authentic German sausages sourced from the Black Forest. The Herman ze German menu includes currywurst and schnitzel with a choice of toppings alongside German beer such as Fruh, Kolsch, Erdinger and Schneiderweisse. Herman Ze German co-founders Azadeh Falakshahi and Florian Frey said: “With its line-up of leading retailers and restaurateurs and location near New Street Station, Grand Central was the obvious choice for our first site outside London.” Iain Mitchell, UK commercial director at Grand Central landlord Hammerson, added: “Herman Ze German will be a great addition to Grand Central’s already strong restaurant line-up. The fact the brand has chosen Grand Central and Birmingham for its first site outside London is a real vote of confidence in the city.” Herman ze German’s London sites are in Charing Cross, Fitzrovia, Soho and White City.   Humble Grape passes £560,000 milestone in crowdfunding campaign to accelerate growth: Humble Read More

Teddy Sagi weighs up Supper bid: Billionaire Teddy Sagi, who owns Camden Market in north London, is looking at a potential route into the delivery arena with an outright purchase or substantial investment in premium London delivery service Supper. Propel has learned talks are in the early stages. Camden Market has more than 200 food and beverage offerings and would therefore benefit from a partnership with a delivery company. Supper has gained a loyal following with its premium delivery service and currently works with a wide range of restaurants across London. Since its creation in 2015 by Peter Georgiou, Supper’s fleet of scooters and directly employed drivers has “set it apart” from sector heavyweights Deliveroo and UberEats. In June last year, Supper sold a substantial stake to PK Wang, the driving force behind Yi Fang, which has more than 600 stores worldwide and other Taiwanese brands coming to the UK. Sagi was born in Tel Aviv and has a range of business interests. He is founder of online gaming software company Playtech, which is listed on London’s main stock exchange. Sagi began divesting and diversifying his portfolio in 2016 and his stake in Playtech has reduced through several transactions, with Read More

Tortilla begins planning for next stage of growth: Tortilla, the Quilvest-backed restaurant group, has begun the process of planning the next stage of its growth, with the appointment of advisors to aid in setting out a roadmap for the business over the next 12 to 18 months, which may lead to a sale. The 36-strong company, which Quilvest has backed since 2012, has begun working with advisors at Spayne Lindsay, to determine the best strategy for its long-term future. It is understood discussions on what those options should be are at a very early stage and talk of a sales process starting is believed to be, for now, wide of the mark. It is understood the company is keen to see more clarity around Brexit before pursuing a formal process. The company, which is led by Richard Morris, is currently one of the standout performers in the sector, with like-for-likes up 6% over the course of 2018, with trading understood to have continued to be strong since the turn of the year. Last month, Morris told Propel he believed there’s scope to add to the number of sites the company currently operates. Morris said the business planned to open six Read More

Patisserie Valerie's new owner trialling earlier opening as it looks to capitalise on breakfast trade: Patisserie Valerie's new owner is trialling earlier opening hours as it looks to capitalise on breakfast trade. Matt Scaife, a partner at Irish private equity firm Causeway Capital, told Propel it had begun opening earlier at a handful of sites in London. He said: "Patisserie Valerie is known for its lunchtime and afternoon trade in particular but people like to grab a pastry and a coffee at breakfast and we see a real opportunity in that area as we look to improve the take-out offer." Scaife said the immediate priority was improving the customer proposition, which would involve investing in the 96 sites in the estate, and which Causeway Capital was prepared to fund. He said a programme of refurbishment would begin shortly as soon as discussions with landlords were concluded with a target completion by the end of the year, which is by when he hoped the business would be generating enough cash to be put back in the business. Scaife said there was also some "taste testing" going on in the central production kitchen as it looked to introduce new products, particularly in Read More

Jonathan Neame – still plenty of room for growth in Kent heartland: Jonathan Neame, chief executive of brewer and retailer Shepherd Neame, has told Propel there is still plenty of room for growth in its Kent heartland. About two-thirds of its 322 pubs are in the county but Neame said the economic development it has planned means there are good opportunities for the company. He added that the group continued to look at “high-quality acquisitions” on a site-by-site basis but didn’t rule out a group deal. Meanwhile, the company also continues to explore potential growth in London, where it has about 40 sites. Shepherd Neame secured a new and extended £107.5m financing structure in October to “support the business for the long term and take advantage of opportunities that may arise over the next few years”. Speaking following the company’s interim results, Neame said: “Because we are investing in big capital projects and building the estate for the long-term, we are really looking at high-quality single-site acquisitions. Kent is our heartland and we continue to see opportunities there but last year we secured a pub in Farnham, Surrey, so we are pushing out a little bit. We’re also looking at Read More

Restaurateur David Moore branches out into pub sector with acquisition of central London site: David Moore, owner of Michelin-starred restaurant Pied-à-Terre, has entered the pub sector after acquiring The Devereux, just off the Strand. The former Greene King-owned pub closed in early 2017, although the grade II-listed building in Devereux Court dates to 1676 when it housed the Grecian Coffee House. It was remodelled as a pub in 1843. Moore plans to restore the property in collaboration with business partner Tony Bennett – they have taken a new 20-year lease at the property. The site covers about 3,000 square feet over ground, basement and first floors with A3/A4 planning consent. Moore has been an eminent figure in the hospitality industry for more than 30 years and said he had been searching for the right project in the pub sector since meeting Bennett 14 years ago. He added: “I have always loved the idea of owning a traditional pub with a proper publican at the wheel. Having been an iconic London pub since the 19th century, Tony and I feel obliged to honour the history and tradition of The Devereux. Above all, we just want to run a ‘proper pub’ with Read More

Tom Crowley – Giraffe and Ed’s CVA ‘only way to protect company’: Boparan Restaurant Group (BRG) chief executive Tom Crowley has said a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) for its Giraffe and Ed’s Easy Diner brands is the “only way to protect the company”. BRG has confirmed its intention to enter into a CVA for the two brands, as exclusively revealed by Propel on Monday (4 March). If the CVA is agreed, 27 of the 87 Giraffe and Ed’s Easy Diner sites will shut. BRG, which had appointed KPMG to review options for the two businesses, said sales had improved at the chains since they were acquired in 2016 but several sites remained unprofitable. Crowley said: “The CVA is the only option to protect the company. The combination of increasing costs and oversupply of restaurants in the sector and a softening of consumer demand have all contributed to the challenges both these brands face.” BRG acquired the then 54-strong Giraffe business from Tesco in summer 2016 in a deal valued at circa £13m. Later that same year, the company paid almost £10m to acquire 30 Ed’s Easy Diner sites in a pre-pack administration agreement. The company brought the brands together in Read More

Full-year turnover up at Brasserie Bar Co: Brasserie Bar Co, the operator of White Brasserie and Brasserie Blanc, saw annual turnover increase by 15.8% to £54m for the year ending 1 July 2018, with restaurant Ebitda reaching £7.3m. The company said despite well documented industry uncertainties its performance was in line with the previous year “reflecting the strength of the brands and the management team”. Between Brasserie Blanc and the White Brasserie Co the company served nearly 1.9 million meals – up by more than 250,000 on 2017 – a result it said was “built on a robust, quality-led and stable business”. The Mark Derry-led business, which currently operates 19 Brasserie Blancs and 17 White Brasseries, said its strategy to focus on White Brasserie pubs and Brasserie Blanc hotel locations had taken shape and represented a move away from the “congested high street and a focus on more captive audiences within local communities”. The company, which had previously been in the mix to acquire Peach Pub Company, said this approach had been key in enabling it to buck current market trends. Two new pubs were added to the White Brasserie portfolio in December 2017 and February 2018, in Thame and Read More

Whitbread to bring Bar + Block to Northern Ireland as brand hits double figures:Whitbread is to bring its Bar + Block steakhouse brand to Northern Ireland as part of a double opening in April. The launch in Belfast on Wednesday, 24 April and another in Bristol the day before will see the brand hit double figures, with an 11th site scheduled to open in Reading later this year. The all-day, casual dining concept places an emphasis on high-quality steaks at affordable prices. The Belfast and Bristol sites will feature contemporary interiors by Harrison Design, including the brand’s trademark open kitchen and copper feature bar as well as decorative finishing touches such as the Bar + Block neon cow. Whitbread Restaurants chief marketing officer Nathalie Pomroy said: “We are delighted to open our first site in Northern Ireland and celebrate Bar + Block venues reaching double digits. This is a great milestone for the brand and we look forward to further growth throughout the year.” Stonegate begins Be At One conversions: Stonegate Pub Company is to start expansion of its Be At One brand by converting three former Novus sites in central London in the next month. The company, which acquired Read More

Thunderbird Fried Chicken opens maiden permanent site, in Brixton: Thunderbird Fried Chicken, the wings and fried chicken concept founded by former Nascar driver Matt Harris, has opened its first permanent site, in Brixton, south London. The company received investment from private equity firm TriSpan in January through its dedicated restaurant fund Rising Stars, enabling it to launch the restaurant in Brixton Village. The 42-cover venue is split over two floors and offers a takeaway service. The stripped-back, electric blue interiors are inspired by Harris’ racing days. All chicken can be purchased as part of a box or bucket deal, while halloumi replaces chicken for a selection of Veggie Buns. Drinks include American milkshakes, Brixton beer and soft drinks. Thunderbird Fried Chicken gained a cult following at London Union street food locations Dinerama in Shoreditch and Giant Robot in Canary Wharf. Harris said: “I’m eternally grateful to everyone who has tasted my chicken and taken a chance on me. To open my first permanent site in one of London’s most exciting food destinations is an amazing opportunity.” The TriSpan investment saw Marcel Khan, who played a key role in the launch and expansion of US better burger brand Five Guys in Read More

Deliveroo to double business team as it hits 10,000-company milestone, expands hotel partnerships programme: Deliveroo has said the team behind its business service will double in size this year. Deliveroo said companies were increasingly seeing food delivery as an important offering to attract and retain staff alongside traditional perks such as gym memberships and health insurance. More than 10,000 companies have signed up for the Deliveroo for Business service in 14 markets worldwide. Deliveroo said it would also expand its hotel partnerships programme this year, in which guests order room service exclusively through Deliveroo for Business. The company said analysis of Deliveroo for Business orders revealed distinct food trends among different industries, with lawyers the most selective eaters while consultants liked to order protein-heavy food such as lean meat and modern Greek cuisine. Meanwhile the UK’s technology workforce, which makes up more than one-third of all Deliveroo For Business orders, opt for Japanese food, particularly sushi, ramen and noodle dishes. Data also revealed more than three-fifths (63%) of orders are for workers staying late at the office, with 7pm the most popular time to select a meal. Deliveroo UK managing director Dan Warne said: “Deliveroo for Business has grown as Read More

The Halal Guys – plenty of scope for UK growth beyond initial 20-site agreement ‘given opportunities in market’: The restaurant operator behind the launch of US street food brand The Halal Guys in the UK has told Propel there is plenty of scope for growth beyond its initial 20-site agreement “given the opportunities in the market”. ITICO F+B partner Jan van Delden said the plan was to grow small clusters of restaurants in cities across the UK, starting in London. The debut site will open in the capital’s Irving Street on Saturday, 30 March. ITICO F+B has “all but signed” on a second site in central London, which will open in late May or early June, with a third to follow later this year. Egyptian immigrants Mohammed Abouelenein, Ahmed Elsaka and Abdelbaset Elsayed launched The Halal Guys as a street cart in New York 28 years ago. An expansion into restaurants in 2015 has led to 85 outlets under The Halal Guys brand across North America and Asia, with 400 more in the pipeline. The brand has a short menu of griddled chicken and beef gyro served on a platter over rice or in a pitta or wrap with signature Read More

Ichibuns team to launch high-end restaurant in White City next week: Endo Kazutoshi, director of ramen and burger concept Ichibuns and former executive sushi chef at Knightsbridge restaurant Zuma, is to launch a high-end restaurant in White City, west London, next week. Endo at Rotunda will open at the Television Centre development on Friday, 1 March. The venue will be in the rotunda at the BBC’s former home and, although offering only 15 covers, Kazutoshi told Hot Dinners he harbours ambitions to “obtain Michelin-starred status”. The third-generation sushi chef has 20 years’ experience, having worked at El Bulli in Spain and Zuma restaurants in London, New York and Miami. Kazutoshi is known for menu item the “umami bomb”, which features oysters, sushi rice, Parmesan and truffles. Kazutoshi is joining forces for the venture with his partners at Ichibuns – Benjamin Goldkorn and former Nobu head chef Robin Leigh. Kengo Kuma, who designed Alan Yau projects Sake No Hana and Cha Cha Moon, will be in charge of decor. Other operators at the £8bn Television Centre development include Indian small plates concept Soho House, better pizza brand Homeslice, D&D London’s Bluebird and better burger brand Patty & Bun. Glendola Leisure expands Read More

Marston’s to open 15th Revere site, in Chesham next month: Revere Pub Company, the premium arm of Marston’s, will launch The Lazy Pig In The Pantry in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, next month. The company is investing £500,000 in the venue, which will be Revere’s 15th in total with the creation of 35 jobs. The bar and restaurant will span more than 4,100 square feet, accommodate 346 covers and is on the site of Marston’s pub The Bellcote in Chesham Road. It will feature a mix of contemporary and traditional decor complemented by an Instagrammable orangery and terrace. The seasonally changing menu will offer pub classics, wood-fired pizza, Josper-grilled steak, Sunday roast, wine and cocktails. Revere Pub Company managing director Colin Sadler said: “We are delighted to be adding another site to the Revere portfolio, taking us to a total of 15. This opening demonstrates the commitment to our continued growth as a brand and its premium offering. We want The Lazy Pig In The Pantry to be at the heart and hub of the Chesham community and we can’t wait to welcome our guests.” Basque cookery school and experiential dining concept to launch debut UK site, in Borough Market: Basque cookery Read More

Six face arrest in Patisserie Valerie accounts scandal: Up to six people face arrest over the Patisserie Valerie scandal. Their names are highlighted in a report by the accountant PricewaterhouseCoopers into the alleged fraud at the company. They are said to have signed fraudulent cheques and sent emails discussing fabricating invoices, reports The Sunday Times. Patisserie Valerie collapsed into administration last month, three months after discovering a £40m hole in its accounts. Trading of its shares was suspended in October and it was revealed cheques worth millions of pounds had been used to artificially inflate the company’s cash reserves. The Serious Fraud Office has already made one arrest. A further five people are understood to be under investigation. Three are said to have been junior staff. They do not include the former executive chairman Luke Johnson, or non-executive directors Lee Ginsberg and James Horler, who are understood to have been interviewed as witnesses and not suspects. According to a source, the suspected fraud involved the double-counting of voucher sales to inflate revenues and the manipulation of costs, with business rates and VAT bills going unpaid. Between £10m and £12m was owed to HM Revenue & Customs. Up to 15 secret Read More

Caravan boss – we want to champion industry through collaborations and by mentoring next generation of female entrepreneurs, like-for-likes up 10%: Laura Harper-Hinton, chief executive of London-based restaurant, bar and coffee-roasting concept Caravan, has told Propel the company is looking to participate in more collaborations to help “champion the industry”. Caravan has just begun a partnership with co-working company The Office Group to supply a bespoke single-origin coffee. The partnership will also include running coffee counters at six of its locations and Harper-Hinton said she was keen to run similar ventures. She is also exploring the possibility of Caravan hosting supper clubs for Devi’s, a Silk Road-inspired vegan and vegetarian concept that combines Mediterranean, North African, Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. Harper-Hinton has begun mentoring Devi’s founder Tanya Gohil after the pair featured on BBC show My Million Pound Menu. While Gohil failed to attract the investment she was looking for, Harper-Hinton was impressed enough by Gohil and her concept to make the alternative offer. Harper-Hinton said: “Tanya is so passionate and talented in everything she does and realises running a street food stall is quite different to opening a bricks and mortar restaurant. She’s also into her food writing Read More

SSP set to open first Pret A Manger sites in Belgium: SSP Group, the UK-based transport hub foodservice specialist, is set to open the first Pret A Manger sites in Belgium. The sites are due to launch in August, both at railway stations in Brussels. The first opening will be at the Eurostar terminal, where it will occupy a spot formerly occupied by Sam’s Club. The second restaurant will be underground at Brussels Central Station, according to Belgian newspaper L’Echo. SSP Group already operates 40 outlets in Belgium, including Panos, The Coffee Club and Deliway. Although the news has yet to be officially confirmed, a spokesman said SSP, which operates more than 2,600 restaurants worldwide, was eyeing development opportunities in Brussels. Pret A Manger operates 530 sites in nine countries – China, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the UK and the US. JAB Holding acquired Pret A Manger from Bridgepoint in May last year in a deal reported to be about £1.5bn. Loungers launches Cosy Club in Norwich: Loungers, the operator of circa 140 neighbourhood cafe-bar-restaurants trading under the Lounge and Cosy Club brands, has opened a site in Norwich. The company has launched a Read More

M&B launches dietary requirements app: Mitchells & Butlers (M&B) has launched an app across its circa 1,600-strong estate that consolidates all dietary requirements such as allergies into one place, Propel has learned. The free app, Glass Onion, is available across the company’s brands including Harvester, Premium Country Dining and All Bar One. It will provide guests with booking information and menus as well as allergen information for M&B’s pubs, restaurants and bars. The app is downloadable through Apple App Store and Google Play Store. A M&B spokesman told Propel: “We have seen a growth in consumers with specific dietary requirements, prompting the need for guests to be able to quickly and accurately source information about ingredients and dishes. Glass Onion consolidates food sensitivities and lifestyle choices into one place, making dining out and choosing where to dine easier for our guests.” Turtle Bay trials brunch menu: Caribbean restaurant Turtle Bay has started trialling a brunch offer at its two sites in Bristol. The Piper-backed business has launched its Caribbean brunch menu through the entire week at its Bristol Broad Quay restaurant and on Saturdays and Sundays at Turtle Bay Cheltenham Road. The offer starts at 10am on weekdays and at Read More

Firezza founder launches Neapolitan pizza concept in Norway: Firezza founder Edin Basic has launched a Neapolitan pizza concept in Norway, Propel has learned. Basic, who sold Firezza to PizzaExpress in 2016, has opened Mano with plans for up to ten sites across Scandinavia in the next two to three years. The concept is similar to Firezza, with pizzas freshly made and sold by the metre. The debut restaurant, which has 20 seats, is in the south western Norwegian city of Stravanger. Basic said the company already had funds in place for growth and had identified potential locations in Oslo for the next site. Regarding the decision to launch in Norway, Basic said: “The people there eat more pizza per capita than anywhere else in the world. We just felt this was the right time. Domino’s has come into the market and our site is about 50 metres from them – but overall the pizza market in Norway is well behind London so there’s a great opportunity for us. It has started really well – we sold out on the first two days. We will open the next one in Oslo and take it from there.” Basic said there were no Read More

Caravan chief to mentor My Million Pound Menu winner: Caravan chief executive Laura Harper-Hinton is to mentor this week’s winner of My Million Pound Menu. Devi’s, the brainchild of Tanya Gohil, triumphed over fellow sustainable food brands Skaus and Sustainable Food Story in this week’s episode of the BBC series. Devi’s operates at Bermondsey food market offering Silk Road-inspired vegan and vegetarian food that combines east Mediterranean, North African, Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. Gohil also operates Hackney supper clubs under the Devi’s name, while she employs a mainly female team and invests in projects that target gender equality, the refugee crisis and women’s rights. Caravan, which operates five London sites, launched a partnership last week to run coffee counters at a number of sites operated by co-working company The Office Group. SSP brings healthy eating concept Dean & David to Düsseldorf: SSP Group, the UK-based transport hub foodservice specialist, has opened a site for fresh food brand Dean & David at Düsseldorf Central Station. The 100 square metre site seats 40 diners, while the brand offers “healthy and nutritious meals that can be tailored to customers’ individual preferences”. The daily changing menu includes made-to-order salads, Asian curries, soup, hand-twisted Read More

Honest Burgers teams up with Brighton businesses ahead of restaurant launch: Honest Burgers, which is backed by Active Partners, is teaming up with Brighton businesses ahead of the launch of its restaurant in the city later this month. The company will open its venue on Monday, 25 February at a site in Duke Street previously occupied by restaurant Pascere. In the run-up to the launch, founders Philip Eeles and Tom Barton will take over the kitchen at the West Hill Tavern and operate the Honest Burgers Field Kitchen – a converted Land Rover Defender – at Holler Brewery’s Brighton base, with the companies partnering to create their own beer, The Duke, for the restaurant. The new venue will feature the brand’s signature burgers and rosemary fries, while the soundtrack will be created in partnership with local independent store Resident Records. The launch will be a homecoming of sorts for Barton and Eeles, who met in the city and served their first burgers at the Brighton Food Festival in 2010. Barton said: “We met some great people who helped us open a tiny restaurant in Brixton, and then a few more. Eight years later we’re back here opening a restaurant in Read More

KPMG – ‘number of options’ on the table for Patisserie Valerie: Patisserie Valerie’s administrator KPMG has said there are a “number of options” on the table for the chain. Proposals from prospective buyers range from the purchase of the entire business to smaller parts of it, KPMG said. Bidding for Patisserie Valerie, which has been grappling with the fallout of an accounting fraud since October, moves into a second round this week with management presentations set to take place in London and Birmingham. David Costley-Wood, partner at KPMG and joint administrator, said: “We are encouraged by the scope of offers received from trade and finance buyers for all and for parts of the business. We will now take a number of these offers forward and hope to be able to make progress in short order. We’d like to thank employees, suppliers, creditors and Patisserie Valerie’s loyal customers for their invaluable support in helping us continue to trade the business over the past two weeks.” Patisserie Valerie’s parent company and main trading subsidiaries were placed into administration last month when it failed to renew its banking facilities after revealing the £40m black hole discovered in its accounts in October was worse Read More

London Cocktail Club reports festive like-for-likes up 7.8% to hit £1m revenue milestone for first time: London Cocktail Club, the wet-led operator founded by John James Goodman and James Hopkins, with Dragons’ Den star Sarah Willingham and chef restaurateur Raymond Blanc on the board, has said trading during the Christmas period broke all its records with four consecutive weeks of growth reaching £1m of revenue in December for the first time. Like-for-like sales during December were up 7.8%, with like-for-like Ebitda for the same period up 25%. Total revenue for the second half of calendar 2018 was up 15.3%, with site Ebitda up 14.5% and company Ebitda increasing 17.9% driven by consistent sales, new openings and cost control at head office. London Cocktail Club said its three latest venues – in Bristol and in London’s Liverpool Street and Old Street – all traded significantly ahead of expectations, while the board said it was also delighted to announce the recent signing of what could become its flagship site, in Clapham. Improvement in Ebitda performance is expected to continue in calendar 2019 as the new sites start to mature along with the opening of the Clapham site. Last month, The Sunday Times Read More

Gerry Ford – there’s potential to at least double the size of Coffee#1 in the UK: Caffe Nero founder and group chief executive Gerry Ford has told Propel there is potential to at least double the size of Coffee#1 in the UK. Caffe Nero has acquired a 70% stake in Coffee#1 with Welsh brewer and retailer SA Brain, which had owned Coffee#1 since 2011, retaining 30%. Ford said it would look to grow the 92-strong Coffee#1, which will remain a standalone business, outwards from its base across Wales, Midlands and southern England. He said: “It has a lot of brand awareness within the area it covers so it makes sense to push out from the edges and continue growing that way. In the short term, the next three to five years, our focus will be on growth in the UK. I’m not sure it can grow to the 750 sites Caffe Nero has in the UK but I think there’s potential to have a least double what we have now.” Ford revealed Caffe Nero started having conversations with SA Brain about three years ago, shortly after it began looking at strategic options for Coffee#1. He said: “Over the years we’ve Read More

PizzaExpress hits 300-site milestone in Deliveroo partnership: PizzaExpress has launched its 300th live delivery site in its partnership with Deliveroo. The company said the partnership would remain an “important element” of the PizzaExpress growth strategy. As part of the collaboration, PizzaExpress managing director Zoe Bowley and Deliveroo chief executive Will Shu spent an afternoon exploring how the partnership operates at ground level, providing valuable insights into what makes it tick. Bowley said: “It is really important to me to spend time with our restaurant teams and understand the invaluable work they do. It was great to experience this with Will and see first-hand how orders are fulfilled through delivery. It’s critical we continually evolve the experiences we create for our customers, both dine-in and delivery, to ensure our processes are seamless for our customers and teams and the pizzas are as our customers expect. Our focus remains on enabling customers to enjoy their favourite pizza wherever and whenever they want one so Deliveroo continues to play a vital role in our business. Thanks to Will for being such a sport and demonstrating some impressive flaring skills too!” PizzaExpress said its recent launch of a vegan menu had been a “great success” Read More

Rockfish appoints Dave Strauss as restaurant director: Rockfish Group, the sustainable fish and chip brand led by Mitch Tonks, has appointed Dave Strauss as restaurant director. Strauss, former managing director of Burger & Lobster and London steak restaurant group Goodman, will oversee Rockfish’s expansion. Founded by Tonks, Rockfish has five sites in the south west and also owns the Seahorse restaurant in Dartmouth. The company, which will open its sixth Rockfish restaurant in Exeter Quays in March, has identified a number of locations along the south coast. Strauss will join the company next month and work with operations director Mat Prowse, helping with the Exeter launch and subsequent openings, beginning with Poole later this year. Strauss said: “Rockfish is a rare thing – something expanding while maintaining standards and ethics and with an excellent reputation among the foodie community across the country. I’m excited to get started and help build a business on the south coast, where I grew up and now live once more.” Tonks added: “Rockfish has been a great employer for the people on the south coast since we first opened and from time to time has also attracted some fantastic people from the London restaurant scene Read More

Auditor faces grilling over failures leading to Patisserie Valerie collapse:Grant Thornton faces questions over whether it examined Patisserie Valerie’s accounting journals, which could have provided clues about the suspected fraud that brought down the chain. The auditor may have failed to look at journal entries, according to someone familiar with a report commissioned by Patisserie Valerie from the accountant PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). The journals show the names, dates and amounts of transactions. Grant Thornton audited the company until the discovery of a £40m black hole in its accounts, caused by “significant, and potentially fraudulent, accounting irregularities”, Patisserie Valerie said. The chain, chaired by sector investor Luke Johnson, went into administration last week after failing to renew its banking facilities with Barclays and HSBC. A total of 71 sites have closed with the loss of 900 jobs. The accusation against Grant Thornton comes after a report the suspected fraud involved several finance staff and a supplier enlisted to provide fake invoices. The PwC review contains details of how the staff discussed whether they should adjust fake ledgers to take account of roadworks outside shops, reports the Financial Times. Each store had its own ledger, and would have its figures adjusted to ensure Read More