CLH Digital - Issue #23

Issue 23

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Test & Trace Details in Pubs & Restaurants To Be Mandatory Under New Lockdown Rules

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The government has announced new lockdown rules that come into force on Monday September 14, banning gatherings of more than six people, and will require the public to provide test and trace details to pubs and restaurants.

From 18 September, it will be mandatory for certain businesses, in particular pubs and restaurants to have a system to collect NHS Test and Trace data, and keep this for 21 days in accordance with data laws and shared with NHS test and trace if required.

Boris Johnson made the announcement earlier this week as he outlined new rules which could last up to six months, coming into force in England to prevent a feared spike in cases around the country.

Businesses failing to follow the new rules will be

subject to fines the Prime Minister announced. In future, premises and venues where people meet socially will be legally required to request the contact details of a member of every party, record and retain these details for 21 days and provide them to NHS test and trace without delay when required” he said.

Speaking on radio 4 Health Secretary Matt Hancock said “large swathes of the hospitality industry have followed it but some have just chosen not to so were going to make that compulsory as well,” he said.

concern is recognised by our sector and we will play an active role in helping Government manage this rise in infections by continuing to adhere to the current guidelines as well as embracing the new ones."

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3...

Responding to the announcement on the changes to social gatherings, Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said: “It is understandable that the Government are concerned about the recent rise in COVID cases. This

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Editor's Viewpoint Eat Out to Help Out Success- Bring it Back for Christmas (If Current Restrictions Are Successful) CLH Digital

Issue 23

The recent lockdown rules introduced are a significant blow to the sector. However, we must be grateful for small mercies and the fact that the sector has not been universally locked down is something to be at least in part thankful for. (Although the spectre does hang over us!)

EDITOR

Gatherings of more than 6 people are now prohibited, however during the government’s Eat Out to Help Out” initiative I spent a lot of time lunchtime and evening “surveying” various establishments to see how busy they were and how the scheme in general was operating.

Peter Adams

Although I was not particularly looking at individual table numbers, looking back most people I saw in various pubs and restaurants were not in parties greater than 6.

So hopefully at present the restriction of no more than 6 people will not have a significant impact in the short-term.

In the long-term of course particularly during the festive period it will have a significant effect.

I was hoping that the success of August’s eat out to help our scheme (EOTOH) which saw over 100 million meals sold and, to date, raised £250 million for the Treasury in various taxes, (although by the end of the month I expect this to be significantly more when all the figures are collated) would motivate the Chancellor to reintroduce the scheme in December.

There are 13 weeks between now and December and a lot could happen.

One thing is for certain the sector needs more relief and support. Furlough comes to an end next month, it would be all but impossible for the sector to continue to operate under the current restrictions without additional support. I really do fear mass redundancies in the sector if government does not provide funding and relief.

Industry leaders are calling on the government “to extend business rates relief, for a continuation of the VAT cut to food and soft drinks, and a sector specific furlough extension as well as a significant cut in alcohol duty.

I would go even further if I were the Chancellor and I would announce a huge incentive. If the country gets behind the current social gathering restrictions and it does lead to a significant reduction in Covid-cases, the reintroduction of the EOTHO scheme for Christmas would give the country a huge lift!

Difficult though the restrictions were in April May June July, they were summer months, light evenings warm weather, lockdown and isolation in winter will be significantly different, leading to other unrelated issues in particular depression. The incentive of an EOTHO festive period as a reward for successfully bringing the spread of the virus under control would be warmly welcomed by the public.

One thing the pandemic has thrust into the spotlight, is the tax burden the industry is forced to endure.

Well not only taxes but costs in general, costs are high margins are low, and we have in recent weeks seen a “bonfire of the chains”, with Pizza Hut chain the latest to seek a creditors voluntary arrangement and is to close down 29 of its sites.

High rent and business taxes are often cited, but the general over-taxation of the hospitality sector, which has been accepted year on year has placed such a burden on the industry that many outlets large and small are simply illprepared for economic downturns.

Thankfully as seen in this issue there is now cross-party support to reduce the burden of VAT in tourism. The Chancellor’s decision to reduce VAT until January 2020 in the sector to 5% has given a huge boost in difficult times, but the rest of the EU have been enjoying these reductions for many years. Our VAT levels on hospitality and accommodation were prior to the pandemic twice that of other EU countries.

This is a drum we here at CLH News have “been bang-

ing” for many years and I am pleased to bang it once again!

PUBLISHED BY

The hospitality sector is unique in as much as the whole country at some stage uses it. No matter what the occasion is, families, friends, work colleagues even strangers will embrace the pub, restaurant or hotel to celebrate or commiserate.

RBC Publishing Ltd Roddis House, Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 1LG

Providing relief to the sector is providing relief to the wider public. The Chancellor faces some of the most difficult decisions any Chancellor has in modern history, but the solutions are staring at him in the face!

TELEPHONE:

The call for cutting VAT is not new, the evidence has been there for many years, the eat out to help our scheme was probably the most welcome boost to the public for decades, so Chancellor keep the VAT level of 5% at least until January 2023 when we can examine and evaluate how successful it has been. January 2021 is just too short a period.

Once again we have some of the industry’s leading lights forward/experts to give an insight on not only the crisis itself but also to advise with guidance and best practice on how to help you through this crisis and get ready to trade and prepare for a Staycation stampede!

Visit our website for our “Staycation Your Country Need You” Poster available to download. Only the hospitality sector can put some cheer back into the country, showcasing the wonderful diverse vibrant UK!

01202 552333

FAX: 01202 552666 sales@catererlicensee.com

www.CLHNews.co.uk @CLHNews CLHNews

EDITOR Peter Adams

SALES EXECUTIVES David Bartlett Guy Stephenson

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Matthew Noades

PRODUCTION & WEB ADMIN Shelly Roche Published by

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Issue 23

CLH Digital

3

Test & Trace Details in Pubs & Restaurants To Be Mandatory Under New Lockdown Rules (...CONTINUED FROM FRONT COVER) “It is important to understand that the changes to social gatherings announced today will have an immediate cooling effect on public confidence to go out and visit our pubs. And will have a direct impact on trade that will be felt hard across an industry that is already struggling to get back on its feet. At such a delicate point in our recovery after a steady start this summer, as we head into Autumn and Winter where we expect trade to already slow down, this is very concerning.

“With the announcements made today pubs and breweries will need much more support from the Government I’d they are to survive. An extension on business rates relief, continuation of the VAT cut to food and soft drinks, a sector specific furlough extension and a significant beer duty cut are needed now. These measures, along with the welcomed compensation for businesses closed as a result of local lockdowns announced earlier today by The Treasury, will help pubs survive, protect jobs and ensure they can continue to serve our communities.

“Without this support from Government, and a clear message that pubs remain open for business and that the public should support them, our sector is in for a very rough end to an already devastating year.

“It fully remains the case that, by following the existing guidelines, pubs remain an entirely safe place for people to meet up at. To reopen every pub had to complete a risk assessment and put measures in place to ensure the safety of customers. With these measures in place, and pubs’ active participation in test and trace, pub goers can rest assured they are safe.”

In response to the mandatory participation of NHS test and trace in pubs and hospitality businesses across England, Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said: “As one of the few sectors actively participating in test and trace, pubs have already been fully playing their part to ensure people follow the safety guidelines and contain the spread of the virus.

“Our sector will continue to play a leading role in supporting test and trace and all our members and the overwhelming majority of pubs across the UK are already using the test and trace system. In fact, pubs have been commended by Matt Hancock and Public Health England for their diligence and proactivity in working with NHS test and trace in England.

“We implore any pub not confident on if they are following the existing or new rules correctly to get in touch with us or one of the many trade associations out there who will be happy to help.

“Of course, it is important to remember that pub customers have a key role to play too in following the rules, and this means fully participating with test and trace.”

On the Prime Minister’s statement, UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “The Prime Minister’s statement represents a further shift towards hospitality businesses to act to protect public health. This is a challenge that the sector has already grasped and will redouble efforts to achieve, in the interest of customers and staff, and to minimise the risk of further lockdowns.

“This will, of course, be more easily achieved with the cooperation of customers, so the measures to make clear the responsibility of individuals was equally welcome. Any fines charged against hospitality venues for breaching Covid-secure requirements must be proportionate and pertain to factors wholly under the control of the venue.

“Mr Johnson said that a later announcement will be made regarding a review of other types of gatherings, such as business conferences, and we strongly urge that any such announcement also includes the roadmap for a return to trade for nightclubs, for which we have long been asking.”

With regard to the Chief Secretary’s statement in the House of Commons, announcing grants for forcibly closed venues and criteria for furlough extension considerations, Ms Nicholls commented: “It is reassuring that the government has recognised the damage closures will cause businesses. The grants would cover some costs, but more detail is needed to properly assess the benefit. For example, in Bolton at present, venues can open as takeaways, so presumably are not being forcibly closed, making them ineligible for the grants. This cannot be right.

“On furlough, the Chief Secretary said three questions remain unanswered in terms of targeted support. Since the pandemic broke, it has become inarguably clear that hospitality is justifiably front of the queue for inclusion, and our supply chain benefits from our recovery. We realise, of course, that any employment support cannot be open-ended but, based on the rate of recovery of the sector thus far, we would propose a potential winding down at the end of Q1 2021, as the sector looks forward to the summer season.”

Action Against Hunger’s Love Food Give Food Campaign Returns This Autumn Action Against Hunger’s annual Love Food Give Food campaign is back this autumn and this year it’s bigger than ever before. During September and October consumers can turn their love of food into action by eating from a host of UK food and drink brands, retailers and restaurants, to support the world’s most vulnerable communities facing hunger.

OBE says:

Now in its 22nd year, Love Food Give Food has raised over £3 million to date, providing access to life saving treatment for vulnerable communities across the world. Over 2,000 of the UK’s restaurants have taken part in the campaign previously, including Hawksmoor, Hakkasan and Pho and this year for the first time ever, restaurants are joining forces with some of the UK’s best loved retailers and food and drink brands in the fight against hunger.

“The UK has been hard hit by this virus, including within the hospitality industry, but during our darkest hour we cannot turn our back on those in need. I hope people will support this fantastic cause and all of the incredible restaurants and food brands involved that continue to bring so much hope to those in need”

The campaign has been supported previously by various high-profile chefs including Jason Atherton, Nieves Barragan Mohacho, Asma Khan, Chantelle Nicholson, Robin Gill, Vivek Singh and Angela Harnett, and this year is set to be no different.

Celebrity chef and long-standing Action Against Hunger ambassador, Cyrus Todiwala

“Covid-19 has sent shockwaves across the globe and nowhere are these being felt more prominently than in places like Yemen, Syria and South Sudan. They don’t have our healthcare system or safety nets, and we are seeing hunger levels grow rapidly.

Action Against Hunger operates in almost 50 countries, directly responding to Covid19 whilst continuing its life-saving programmes to treat malnutrition and ensure communities can access safe and nutritious food. This includes working with community-based partners here in the UK due to unprecedented need.

For more information, recipes and for a full list of Love Food Give Food participating brands and restaurants, visit: www.actionagainsthunger.org.uk/lovefoodgivefood

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

New COVID-19 Guidance Brings Welcome Clarity for the Hospitality Sector Hospitality businesses could be hit for six if they fall foul of the latest government pandemic legislation.

“The easing of lockdown measures for these businesses came with a caveat – the fact that they were being asked to collect and store the contact details of their customers in order to assist with the NHS Test and Trace system, should it become necessary.

That is the warning from commercial lawyer Amy Peacey, who was reacting to changes governing the collection of data and social gatherings – the so-called “rule of six” – which come into effect next week.

“The Government requested that businesses keep a temporary record of their customers for 21 days but this is now mandatory and subject to penalties for non-compliance.

Under the latest changes to the law announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants have a clear duty to support the NHS Test and Trace system, while they risk closure if they operate in a way that increases the risk of transmission of Covid-19.

From Friday, 18th September it will be mandatory for hospitality businesses to have a system to collect Test and Trace data and to keep this for 21 days. Meanwhile, any businesses found to be facilitating indoor gatherings between multiple households, or of more than six people, can be closed by local authorities.

“There was a sigh of relief throughout the hospitality industry when venues were allowed to re-open on 4th July, but the Government guidance was not clear enough and the whole situation risked descending into a data protection nightmare,” says Amy Peacey, who is a senior associate specialising in commercial law in the Southampton office of national law firm Clarke Willmott.

“As the numbers of people testing positive for Covid-19 begins to edge up again this represents a welcome clarification of the situation, as do the more stringent penalties for breaching the new ‘rule of six’ guidelines governing social gatherings.

“Taken together, the message is clear – failing to abide by the new legislation could be terminal for many businesses which are already operating in a sector which is already under severe financial pressure.”

Amy Peacey says that, having become data collectors since 4th July, hospitality businesses are subject to data protection rules under the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

“This means you must make sure that any personal data collected for compliance with Covid-19 requirements is not used for any other purpose, such as sending marketing communications about offers or promotions.

“When collecting personal data from your customers only take what you need, such as a name and telephone number/email address, and you must also provide your customer with a privacy notice setting out why you are collecting the data and what you will be doing with it.

“In addition, hospitality businesses need to have in place clearly documented processes for how they will collect, store, and dispose of customer personal data, while ensuring that all employees are aware of and follow the required processes.”

Hospitality Gets Behind Kickstart Initiative with Free Online Portal March free-of-charge by the team at Harri, the online people management platform. This new initiative has already secured commitment from several hospitality groups, including BrewDog, Burger King UK and The Ivy Collection, and the HospitalityUnite team expects more than 200 businesses to sign up.

The HospitalityUnite website, set up to help hospitality workers find alternative employment during lockdown, is now switching focus to support the Government’s Kickstart initiative for young people with the backing of leading trade association UKHospitality, Springboard, The Scottish Tourism Alliance and The Youth Group.

It will provide a free online service to make it easy for both hospitality businesses and those 16-24 year-olds wanting to start a career in the restaurant, pub, hotel, bar and wider leisure sector to take advantage of the new Government funded scheme.

As part of the UK’s recovery strategy, the Government is putting £2bn into the Kickstart programme which will fund six months of 25 hours a week work at national minimum wage for 16-24 year olds, giving them a ‘kickstart’ into their working lives.

Only Government approved candidates can apply to Kickstart roles and these candidates are being directed to HospitalityUnite jobs courtesy of The Youth Group and its partnership with the Department of Work & Pensions (DWP) assessors. The Youth Group, a youth-first company which improves opportunities for young people, has a community of 1.5 million looking to build a career in the current challenging post-COVID environment.

Operating companies taking part will receive exclusive access to these approved candidates and free use of the hiring platform to post jobs, screen candidates, conduct video interviewing and send offer letters. Free employability training will also be available.

At the beginning of lockdown, Harri set up the website initiative, with the backing of UK Hospitality and The Scottish Tourism Alliance, to bring together businesses in other sectors such as care and retail to support hospitality staff with short term employment stop gaps while their sites were closed. Working with the likes of Amazon, Waitrose, Care UK and Morrisons it processed over 300,000 applications.

“The need for homegrown talent in hospitality will be vital through the course of 2021. Brexit barriers to entry for ‘unskilled’ workers post 1st January will make these Kickstart applicants all the more crucial to the industry’s revival. We welcome all operators throughout hospitality and tourism to join the HospitalityUnite Kickstart initiative, which in partnership with The Youth Group, will seamlessly process your

Government application on your behalf again at no charge,” said Harri director Pete Willis.

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, which is supporting the initiative, said: “This is a really positive way of promoting the Government’s Kickstart programme, set up to assist sectors like ours. We know from experience that hospitality benefits hugely from the enthusiasm, talents and innovation of young people in its workforce. As hospitality embarks on a journey of recovery after the impacts of the Covid crisis, those attributes will be more valuable than ever, and the portal will be a great access point for people looking to break into exciting hospitality careers.”

Jack Parsons, CEO of The Youth Group and the UK’s Chief Youth Officer, commented: "A Government initiative like the Kickstart scheme excites me because it will really support our youth. I'm extremely thrilled to be part of HospitalityUnite to help the hospitality industry engage and develop young people. It's so important that we change the narrative when it comes to hospitality jobs because like any industry there are some real success stories in growing a career in hospitality.

Harri and the wider community supporting this initiative know the industry very well and it's great to join forces".

Chris Gamm, CEO of The Springboard Charity, said: “The Government has committed a huge amount of support to getting young people into work through Plan for Jobs, and any initiative that helps operators tap into this should be highly commended.

Springboard’s mission is to help future-proof the hospitality talent pipeline and we look forward to working with Harri to support the industry and young people to get into work.”

A Guide To Risk Assessing Your Business The original HospitalityUnite not-for-profit jobs portal was created in

By Nick Wilson, Director of Health & Safety Services at Ellis Whittam Since restaurants, bars, pubs and cafes in England have emerged from their three-month hibernation, employers are constantly contemplating what proportionate yet effective COVID-19 controls can be introduced and maintained to keep customers and staff safe.

Businesses must be open in a “COVID-secure” way – but what does it take to keep people safe and meet your legal duties in the inherently social hospitality sector?

The process to control the risks presented is no different to any other hazard you may encounter in the workplace and can be broken down into 5 stages: Step 1: Identify the hazard and think about areas and activities in the workplace where there may be a risk of transmission. Bars, lounges, dining areas, kitchens, toilets, cellars and outside areas should be considered.

Step 2: Decide who may be harmed and how? This includes staff, customers and contractors.

Step 3: Assess the risks and take action. For each hazardous situation and activity identified, consider how likely it is that transmission may

occur and the severity of the harm. The severity of COVID-19 will be high in all cases given the potential health consequences and so your focus should be on reducing the likelihood of becoming infected by introducing effective control measures. It will not be possible to eliminate the risk of COVID-19 completely and that is not what the law requires. Remember it’s about being able to demonstrate that you have taken all reasonably practicable measures.

Step 4: Record the significant findings. If you employ more than five members of staff, it is a legal requirement to make a written record of your risk assessment but if you have fewer than five employees you are encouraged to do so as it can help to demonstrate compliance and can be shared with staff. The government has also encouraged businesses employing over 50 people to publish their risk assessment online.

Step 5: Review the risk assessment regularly and whenever there is a significant change to your business practices or personnel, new or updated government guidance, or if there is reason to believe your controls are no longer effective.

DECIDING ON PRACTICAL CONTROLS There is plenty of guidance available to support the sector, but it’s important that you introduce control measures using a systematic approach by following the ‘Hierarchy of Controls’. This ranks the types of controls from most effective (elimination) to least effective (PPE). You must exhaust the control measures required at the top levels because they are not reasonably practicable before proceeding to the next level.

Let’s look at some examples: Elimination: Does the activity need to be undertaken or a particular area occupied? If not, remove it from your workplace. For example table service to avoid congestion at the bar, card only payment, removing touchpad devices.

Substitution: Can the hazardous activity be replaced with an equivalent that is intrinsically safer? For example, pre-booking to control the amount of customers, replacing self-service of food, cutlery or condiments with these being brought to the table with the food.

Engineering Controls: Can people be separated from the hazard, through guarding or isolation? For example, installing screens in front of payment points and counters, traffic light system for toilets requiring one in one out.

Administrative Controls: Can safe working procedures be developed to minimise exposure? For example, signs, notices, instructions, floor markings.

Having staff work in fixed terms or facing away from each other, providing adequate soap and hand sanitiser stations.

PPE: This should only be used as a final resort when all other options have been exhausted.

Remember, this is a collaborative effort, so involve employees in the risk assessment process. Not only will their insight help to decide on and implement adjustments, but their collective buy-in will ensure plans are properly executed and enable you to get back on track swiftly and safely.

There’s no doubt the world of hospitality is going to look entirely different as we emerge from lockdown but it’s important to stay alert and follow government advice to keep people safe, meet your legal duties and limit your liabilities.

Nick Wilson is Director of Health & Safety Services at Ellis Whittam and a former HSE Inspector. For free industry-specific risk assessment templates and further guidance documents, visit Ellis Whittam’s ‘Back to Business Hub’ at https://elliswhittam.com/covid-19/register/

Issue 23

CLH Digital

5

A Week Of Two Halves For Sales in Last Days of EOTHO The Eat Out to Help Out scheme gave food and drink sales another major lift in the first half of last week, CGA’s latest data shows—though they fell away in line with dropping temperatures towards the weekend.

Figures from CGA’s Volume Pool of 7,000 managed outlets shows that food sales last Tuesday and Wednesday (25 and 26 August) were more than double those of the same days in 2019, at 107% and 103% up respectively. Sales on Monday (24 August) were distorted by the comparison with a Bank Holiday Monday in 2019, but were nevertheless 40% higher year-on-year.

As in previous weeks, food sales comparisons struggled later last week.

They were down by 20% year-on-year on Thursday (27 August), and by 19% on both Friday and Saturday (28 and 29 August). But across the whole of last week, food sales were 17% higher than in the equivalent period in 2019, despite the tough comparative. It represents a steady increase from a 9% drop in year-on-year sales in the first week of the scheme, a 3% rise in the second week and a 15% rise in the third week.

The Eat Out to Help Out offer ended this Monday (31 August), when sales will also have benefited from the Bank Holiday. The government has announced that more than 100 million meals were claimed over the whole of the month-long scheme.

The deal also had another significant impact on drinks last week.

CGA’s Drinks Recovery Tracker shows year-on-year sales were up 11% and 29% on Tuesday and Wednesday (25 and 26 August) respectively.

Across the seven days to last Saturday (29 August), the Tracker recorded a 27% fall in sales versus the same week in 2019, when figures were inflated by the Bank Holiday weekend.

Soft drinks’ eligibility for the Eat Out to Help Out offer meant their sales were down only 7% year-on-year. Wine continued to benefit from sales with meals, having its best week since the end of lockdown with a 15% drop. With cooler weather across the week, sales of beer (down 27%), cider (down 39%) and spirits (down 40%) all fell back. As with food, drinks sales were weaker in the second half of the week, with total

sales down more than 30% on each of Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

These year-on-year comparisons show how the popularity of the Eat Out to Help Out offer has mounted week by week,” says Rachel Weller, CGA’s Head of Consumer Research and Marketing. “With a positive effect on drinks sales too, it has helped many restaurant and pub operators get back on their feet after lockdown. Now the scheme is at an end—albeit with some operators extending the offer out of their own pockets—the big question is whether the momentum can continue into September. If consumer confidence about safety and spending is sustained then sales will hopefully trend upwards over the autumn—but market conditions remain extremely fragile.”

Footfall data from Wireless Social meanwhile suggests that consumers are gradually returning to city and town centres. Although footfall was 46% down on the weekly average in February, this marks the best result since the start of lockdown and an increase of nine percentage points in the last two weeks.

Appetite For Healthier Diets Remains In Wake Of COVID-19

New research released by market research and charity IGD reveals there is still a significant appetite for change among UK consumers to shift towards healthy and sustainable diets, as they continue to grapple with the impact of COVID-19.

IGD’s new consumer research draws on data from more than 1,000 UK consumers collected in July 2020 to explore the impact of COVID-19 on attitudes to healthy and sustainable diets. This research builds on IGD’s Appetite for Change report, released in March 2020 and based on data gathered in November 2019.

Highlights include: Over half of consumers (57%) are already changing their diets or are considering making changes to be healthier and more sustainable, down from 66% in 2019 There has been a shift in how healthy consumers perceive their diets to be, with people feeling their diets are less healthy during lockdown than in 2019 Health is now an even bigger motivator for consumers to improve their diet in the wake of COVID-19, with nearly two-thirds (63%) of people citing health as their primary driver up from 58% in 2019

Perceived higher cost remains the main barrier to healthy and sustainable diets, with 38% of consumers thinking it is more expensive Hannah Pearse, Head of Nutrition and Scientific Affairs at IGD, said: “We faced significant health and environmental challenges before COVID-19 and the global pandemic has brought these issues into the spotlight. Not only has COVID-19 highlighted our reliance on an effective and efficient food supply chain, but also reinforced that our diets are inextricably linked with our health.

Evidence has shown that people living with obesity are 50% more likely to die from COVID-19 and to help combat this, the government has launched a new strategy to reduce obesity.

More than half (57%) of people in the UK continue to be open to making changes to what they eat and drink despite the uncertainty of COVID-19, proving there is still a big opportunity for food and grocery companies to help transition consumers to healthier diets.”

“This is why IGD continues to work extensively with behaviour change experts, the food industry and consumers to understand how we can shift consumer behaviour towards healthier and more sustainable diets.

Hannah Pearse adds: “There remains a huge opportunity to start shifting people’s behaviour towards healthier and more sustainable diets and never has there been a stronger impetus for change. We’ve identified practical steps the food and grocery industry can take to encourage behaviour change; we’re currently working with companies to test different approaches and we’ll share best practice as it emerges. Our impact will be much greater if we come together to drive the change required

“Appetite for Change reveals consumers fall into three mindsets; those who are making changes to be healthier and more sustainable, those who are considering it and those who see no reason to change.

With the advent of COVID-19, there has been a significant shift in the value placed on personal health for parents, with 35% of parents valuing their own health as the primary motivator to eat healthily and sustainably in 2020 compared to 24% in 2019. In turn, the importance that parents place on their family’s health has fallen to 31% in 2020 from 39% in 2019, potentially reflecting the lesser impact of COVID-19 on children’s health compared to adults.

Some 38% of consumers perceive healthy and sustainable eating to be more expensive, meaning perceived cost continues to be the biggest barrier to change. Other barriers include people liking the taste of their current food (24%), being creatures of habit (23%) and a lack of familiarity (17%).

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

COVID-19 Impact: Can Hospitality Sector Rise From Ashes?

By Kunal Sawhney, CEO of Kalkine (www.kalkine.co.uk) With relaxation in the lockdown in the UK, the country is slowly starting to recover, with citizens being allowed to hang around at their preferred hotels, dine at their favorite restaurants and can have drinks at the pub in their neighbourhood area while maintaining a social distance.

The UK government’s most popular “Eat Out to Help Out” scheme, which was meant for the August month, has been received well.

Restaurants, lounges and bars, who took part in the scheme were offering 50 per cent discount on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday on bills, up to a maximum of £10 throughout August.

Though it can be said that some level of normalcy is returning in the UK in terms of business activities and people's movement but the food and drink industry has faced severe blows due to the lockdown.

The restaurants and pubs witnessed an 87 per cent fall in its sales viz £30 billion between April and June.

Going forward, the challenge for the hospitality sector is myriad though some of the restaurants and pubs have resumed their operations and some are still in the dilemma of uncertain future and sales enhancement.

TACKLING THE CONFLICT WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES Amid the resumption of restaurants and pubs in the UK, many hotel chains have been told by their insurance firms that any disruption or loss in the business activity during the lockdown is not covered under their insurance scheme. For instance, the insurance firms such as Aviva Insurance Ltd and QBE (UK) Ltd have refused to settle the claims as these companies asserted that they don’t have any policy which covers the crisis like the COVID-19 outbreak.

Now, if we consider the battle between some of the restaurants and pubs in the UK hospitality sector and insurance companies, it poses an extreme challenge for the hospitality industry to recover the losses. Even if the government will lift the lockdown fully then there won’t be many people who would like to visit hotels or pubs regularly because coronavirus is not mutated yet.

Coming back on the Aviva Insurance and QBE (UK) row, the policyholders formed Hospitality Insurance Group Action (HIGA) which looks after the businesses of those firms who have taken insurance from these two firms. The organisation has been established to fight for the hospitality sector.

Considering this, the hospitality industry surely is not going to have a smooth ride in the days ahead. Even though the government may announce a stimulus package for this sector, it still has miles to go to and beef up its revenue parameters.

CLOSE-KNIT COOPERATION IS NEED OF THE HOUR

As the coronavirus still has its wings spread across the globe, it is unlikely that hospitality sectors may not face pitfalls in the operations once the lockdown will be lifted to a large extent. There are around 3,70,000 businesses that have been hit by the COVID-19 wave and among them, there would be sizeable hospitality firms that may be liable to receive the claims. It could be the possibility that many of these hospitality firms may not be aware of the insurance claims. Similarly, many other firms in the hospitality industries may be thinking that it is too late to initiate any legal proceedings against insurance companies which may have informed these firms that any crisis driven by the coronavirus is not covered by them.

If we consider this, then the companies in the hospitality sector have to work in close coordination with each other to overcome any untoward situations. Though there could be several differences among various firms operating in this sector, however, at a time when the nation is grappling with a deadly virus, the strength ultimately lies in numbers.

For instance, take a case of London hospitality businesses, which comprises hotel groups, restaurant chains and others, have cooperatively written a letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson demanding support in capital infusion since the industry has been derailed due to Covid-19.

Moving ahead, the hospitality industry including rivals pubs, restaurants and hotel chains need to join hands with each other for the betterment of the entire sector. A collective effort can surely bring positive changes in the days ahead.

DEVISING STRATEGY FOR SURVIVAL AND PUSHING INDUSTRY TO HEIGHTS Undoubtedly, the hospitality sector may face umpteen challenges ranges from sales, revenue and profit maximization, however, it needs to play differently now, especially at a time when the virus has taken over the businesses and economy.

The government, by and large, may have its agenda when it comes to providing aid as they must be equally baffled with humongous issues such as Brexit and economic recession. Considering this, it becomes pertinent for restaurants and hotel chains to sketch a survival blueprint. Not only the hospitality sector has to devise an eye-grabbing strategy to catch the attention of the people but also generate enough revenue to compensate for the losses borne in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

If we look at the emerging trend of app-based transactions as this kind of platform not only provides contactless payments but also enables companies to connect with customers if any untoward incidents happen.

For example, one can see how eating outlets such as Caffè Nero, KFC and Young’s Pub have been benefitted in terms of customer experience by employing app-based platforms.

Towards the end, it is important to understand that the hospitality industry needs to rebuild and probably revamp its business model once the coronavirus effect will nullify to a large extent. Though the process may take little time, but it will surely regain its momentum and soon turn out to be a profitable sector.

Beer Sales Cool But EOTHO Lifts Soft Drinks and Wine

Cool weather held down drinks sales in the on-trade last week, but the Eat Out to Help Out scheme gave another boost to soft drinks and wine.

sales respectively. But with more people eating out, wine had its best week since the on-trade started to reopen in early July, with sales down 18% year-on-year.

Those are among the messages in CGA’s latest Drinks Recovery Tracker, which shows that drinks sales by value in the seven days to Saturday (22 August) were 23% down on the same week in 2019. It compares to a 16% deficit in sales over the previous week.

Data from CGA’s Outlet Index meanwhile shows that four in five (81%) of Britain’s licensed premises were back trading by last Saturday.

The figure is 19 percentage points higher than the 62% of premises that were open in late July, according to the Market Recovery Monitor from CGA and AlixPartners. It suggests the Eat Out to Help Out scheme has encouraged many venues to reopen and capitalise on the lift to food sales.

With the Eat Out to Help Out offer in its third week, drinks sales were up 12% and 14% last Monday and Tuesday, but dropped 3% on Wednesday. As some consumers switched their on-trade visits to take advantage of the 50% discount, drinks sales fell substantially year-onyear on Thursday (down 20%) and Friday (down 36%).

Eat Out to Help Out continues to benefit the soft drinks market, where year-on-year sales were down just 2% over the week. The lower temperatures contributed to 24% and 32% drops in beer and cider

It appears to have had a galvanising effect in London, where the number of sites trading is now in line with the national average at 80%, after lagging behind for several weeks. In Scotland and Wales, where restrictions were lifted later than in England, 76% and 79% of premises are open respectively.

Footfall data from Wireless Social shows Eat Out to Help Out encouraged more people to visit town and city centres last week.

While footfall was 48% down on the weekly average in February, this is an increase of seven percentage points and the best result since the start of lockdown.

The sun shined on the on-trade in the first half of August, but the cooler weather made trading tougher for the drinks sector last week,” says Jonathan Jones, CGA’s Director of Client Services. “However, it was still the second best week of sales since hospitality reopened, and steady increases in the number of sites trading and footfall in towns and cities are both positive signs for the weeks ahead. We can expect many more bumps along the road to recovery, but as more people are tempted out they will hopefully become more confident about their safety and in their spending.”

5 Safeguards to Protect Hospitality Tenants Struggling to Meet their Financial Obligations

By Pranav Bhanot, a commercial litigation solicitor specializing in the hospitality sector at law firm Meaby&Co Solicitors (www.meaby.co.uk) and the founder of the online platform theweddinglawyer.co.uk Whilst the COVID-19 Government lockdown is easing and non-essential shops have been allowed to open, last week saw many hospitality and on-trade tenants struggling to meet their June Quarter Day payments. Whilst it is hoped that the gradually easing will assist businesses from a cash flow perspective, there is no denying that millions of commercial tenants are being impacted by cashflow pressures.

This article explores the assistance available to commercial tenants during these difficult times.

Court Proceedings – Whilst landlords are still entitled to pursue debts through the courts by obtaining a county court judgment and enforcing the judgment against the tenant’s assets, it is important to note that the Government have banned the service of statutory demands and winding up petitions for companies until at least 30 September 2020.

Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) – The amount of rent that must be unpaid to entitle the landlord to serve a CRAR notice or seize goods under the CRAR has increased from 90 days to 189 days. This would mean that until at least 30 September 2020, a landlord would be unable to take action, even where a tenant has been unable to pay anything for two quarters.

Extension to forfeiture restrictions – The Government has extended the restriction preventing landlords from forfeiting a tenant’s lease for non-payment of rent from 30 June to 30 September 2020. Whilst, this may be welcomed news for commercial tenants, it is important to remember that unless agreed otherwise, the tenant will still be liable for any rent and other sums that remain unpaid plus the accrued interest. It should also be noted that a landlord can still pursue forfeiture proceedings for tenant breaches that are nonfinancial (e.g. a breach of the repairing covenants).

Code of Practice – The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government have published a code of practice for commercial property relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic which is intended to reinforce and promote good practice amongst landlord and tenant relationships as they deal with the income shocks caused by the pandemic. The code encourages landlords and tenants to work responsibly and collaboratively, particularly in light of difficulties faced by the tenant.

Financial Support – Financial assistance initiatives such as rates relief and bounce bank loans may assist commercial tenants with their cash flow issues and are particularly common in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

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Food-led Pub and Restaurant Groups Enjoy August “Bounceback” Britain’s managed pub, restaurant and bar groups saw collective likefor-like sales bounce back up to 2019 levels in August thanks to the Government’s Eat Out To Help Out campaign, latest figures from the Coffer Peach Business Tracker show.

But while food-led businesses forged ahead, drink-led operations still found trading tough. The London market also trailed significantly behind the rest of the country.

With 85% of group-owned sites reopened, total sales across the whole managed pub, bar and restaurant market were still 12.2% below last August’s levels, but like-for-like sales in those businesses trading came out flat, so matching the sales volumes seen this time last year.

To get back to last year’s sales levels in those sites that were able to trade is some achievement just a month after the industry started to reopen, and credit has to go to the Government-backed discount scheme that attracted so many people back out to eat, plus the cut in VAT on food. But of course not all parts of the market benefited, and there will also be concern about what the Government’s new legallyenforced restrictions will have on consumer confidence in the weeks ahead,” said Karl Chessell, director of CGA, the business insight consultancy that produces the Tracker, in partnership with The Coffer Group and RSM. Restaurants enjoyed the biggest boost last month, with group-owned sites that were open seeing collective like-for-like sales up 13.5% on August last year. But because only 65% of chain-owned restaurants that were trading back in February were open again, total sales across that part of the market were still down 10.9% on last year.

Managed pub groups, which between them had 95% of their sites trad-

ing, had a more mixed experience, with like-for-like sales down 3.6% on last August and total sales down 9.4%.

However, food-led pubs and pub restaurants did prosper on the back of the Eat Out incentive with collective like-for-likes up 5.3% on last August and total sales down just 1.2%. In contrast, drink-led pubs saw like-for-likes down 11.0% and total sales down 16.3%. Across the managed pub market as a whole, food sales were up 12%, with drink sales down 15.3% on last August.

Bar groups, which had 74% of their sites trading, had the worst of the month, with like-for-like sales down 27.6% and total sales down 37.0%.

Regionally, London still struggled over August despite the assistance of the Eat Out To Help Out campaign with many office workers, commuters, tourists and international business travellers still staying away.

Like-for-like sales across pubs, bars and restaurants were down 13.4%, with total sales down 28.1%. In contrast, outside the M25 the market saw like-for-like sales up 3.2% and total sales down just 7.9% on last August.

While restaurants in London did overall record positive like-for-likes, up 2.6%, they still lagged considerably behind the rest of the country.

Restaurants have had a good month, and although more were open – 65% against only 36% of group-owned sites in July - it is unclear how many of those still shuttered will eventually trade again, certainly under current ownership, and whether they have missed the boat?” said Chessell.

“While in July pubs tended to have the best of the early weeks of reopening, food was undoubtedly the winner last month. We will have to

see if that starts to balance out again in September and if the momentum of Eat Out can be maintained with the Government’s new legal restrictions in force,” he said.

Delivery accounted for 8.8% of sales among the casual dining groups in the Tracker cohort in August, down from 13.1% in July, but still up on the pre-lockdown percentage of 5.9% in February. “The growth in delivery has been a marked feature of lockdown, and although the incentives to eat out in August will understandably have brought its share down, it is still up on the start of the year and likely to remain an important sales component for those food-led business that make it through,” Chessell observed.

Trevor Watson, executive director, Davis Coffer Lyons said “The August figures are very much a one off and cannot be used to indicate any trends. The boost to food-led establishments due to Eat Out to Help Out is short term; the longer-term trend is the re-distribution in trade towards residential districts and away from commercial city centres and London in particular.

"The autumn sees the end of furlough and potentially the end of the moratorium on lease forfeiture. These twin threats are the biggest possible challenge to the industry, so although the doors are open to many pubs and restaurants, the market is more unstable than it has ever been.

Pictures of people eating out in pub gardens, and healthy looking like-forlikes present a misleading and artificial impression of where the market is right now.”

At the end of August, underlying annual like-for-like sales for the whole market were down 21% on the previous 12 months, with total sales down 31.9%.

The Rising Sun Has Been Named Britain’s Best Beer Garden

The Rising Sun - in Pensford, Somerset - has won the title of Britain’s Best Beer Garden. Owned by St Austell Brewery, the watering hole is renowned for its idyllic setting, large riverside garden and views over Pensford viaduct and the weir.

The pub was nominated when independent national radio station, Union JACK, launched a competition earlier this month - it went on to reach the final top 10. The overall winner was decided by a public vote and more than 2,000 votes were cast in less than a week. The Rising Sun, which has been run by Lisa Faulkner and Becca Fricker since 2019, received almost a fifth of the overall votes.

As well as winning the title, The Rising Sun also hosted a day of live radio broadcasts this week, which saw Union JACK airing some of its flagship shows from the beer garden. The day’s entertainment included the 'Not-in-a-Pub Pub Quiz', hosted by renowned TV quizzer Mark “The Beast” Labbett from ITV’s

The Chase.

Joint tenant, Lisa Faulkner said: “We feel honoured to be named Britain’s Best Beer Garden. Thank you to the Union JACK team and everybody who took the time to vote for us.

“Our beer garden has a stunning backdrop of the viaduct and weir, so we feel lucky to operate a pub in such a beautiful location. We currently have an outdoor bar too, ensuring that all social distancing rules can be adhered to, while our guests soak up the views.”

Steve Worrall, Managing Director of St Austell Brewery’s pubs, inns and hotels said: “Congratulations to Becca and Lisa on such a superb achievement.

The fact that it was voted for by the public is testament to the popularity of the pub and what a great outdoor space they’ve created for their locals and visitors. Well deserved!”

The Devil Is In The Detail: Can My Business Be Insured If There’s A Local Lockdown?

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By Alex Balcombe, Partner at Harris Balcombe (www.harrisbalcombe.com)

After Leicester’s local lockdown saw the UK government order the immediate closure of non-essential stores and delayed the reopening of bars and restaurants, hundreds of businesses in the Midlands city are once again in limbo - not just over public safety but also financial security.

Despite the sudden loss of cash flow to businesses, some insurers are hitting people with a double whammy of tightened their terms to explicitly exclude COVID-19 from policies, and there’s no exception for Leicester businesses. There are also currently ‘no plans’ from the government for further financial aid. Some businesses invested money for the brief period they were able to reopen before the new lockdown, and while they are able to re-furlough staff, revenue continues to decline.

With MP Liz Kendall, of Leicester West, urging the rest of the country that “this is a warning for future local lockdowns”, can businesses look to their insurance for cover if their city is closed again? There are grants available, but not all businesses will be eligible for help.

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL The pandemic has led many insurers to come under scrutiny for policy wording which often does not provide clarity to businesses as to what

they are covered for. Allianz Insurance Plc, for instance, has faced group action after many business owners were denied claiming on their business interruption policy, which covered loss caused by interruption or interference to the business as a result of a notifiable disease within the vicinity of an insured location.

Insurers say most business policies simply do not cover pandemics.

With Blackburn overtaking Leicester as the COVID-19 hotspot of Britain, and other cities such as Rochdale, Bradford and Luton enduring rising cases, is there anything that businesses at risk of sudden closure can do to claim on their business interruption insurance?

Many insurance companies are not allowing companies to add COVID19 to any existing business interruption policies. In fact, a large number of insurers have issued “mid term policy adjustments” to exclude anything to do with COVID-19, in light of so many people trying to make claims.

HOW COULD I BE COVERED? The pool for insurance compliance has shrunk. But in theory, if you have an existing policy that includes one of the clauses identified below, and your insurer has not issued a mid-term adjustment to exclude COVID-19 then you may be able to make a claim following a second lockdown.

To be considered for cover for COVID-19, there are two types of policy extensions to your business interruption cover that can potentially cover you for this situation: 1 - Infectious Disease Extension Many policies expressly state which diseases fall within the realm of being an infectious or notifiable disease. If this is the case, your policy will not provide cover. As it is a new disease, these policies will not have

included COVID-19.

Other infectious disease extension policies will define the disease with reference to the actions of the government. Since the UK Government has named COVID-19 as a notifiable disease throughout the UK, it is possible that your business may fall into this definition, thus meaning you may be able to make a claim.

However, again, it’s not always that simple. Many policies require the disease to have been on your premises, while others specify a radius from your premises in order to qualify.

2 - Denial of Access Extension (non-damage) Denial of Access Extension (non-damage) policies may cover you if you’re prevented from accessing your property. This could be due to an event, or by the actions of a competent authority, which could cause your business interruption cover to engage.

If covered by this clause, there are often very subtle differences in wording in your policy. This could depend on the insurer or policy. You may well be covered, but it will depend on your particular circumstances, and the specific policy wording.

The risk of infection rate is vastly different across the UK, but as we’ve seen with Leicester, the government does have the power to lockdown a city overnight. It’s hard to establish clear principles when it comes to business interruption insurance, but you may be covered.

If you own a business and are unsure about whether you can claim for business interruption, or are confused about ambiguous wording, get in touch with a loss assessor.

These claims are not simple, but loss assessors will be able to help and guide you along the way, check your wording and work on your behalf to make sure you get everything you are entitled to.

Finalists Confirmed for the Hospitality Lockdown Hero Awards After sifting through over 500 nominations, all of which are heroes of the hospitality industry in their own right, the judging panel for the Hospitality Lockdown Hero Awards, in association with the Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Show (HRC), have selected the worthy finalists in each of the eight categories. The hospitality industry as a whole now get the chance to choose the overall winners by casting their votes at: https://www.hrc.co.uk/hospitality-lockdown-hero-awards-2020 Reflecting on the industry response to the Hospitality Lockdown Hero Awards, HRC Event Manager, Ronda Annesley said: “Our industry is full of resilient, innovative and caring people and this has been emphasised by the astounding number of nominations for the Hospitality Lockdown Hero Awards we received from across the country.

We were touched by the compassion and community minded spirit of the people and businesses that have gone the extra mile during the tough months of the Coronavirus lockdown and it has been an incredibly hard task for our judges to shortlist just six nominations in each category.

Our peers in the hospitality industry can now decide which of the worthy nominations should win in the public vote at https://www.hrc.co.uk/hospitality-lockdown-hero-awards-2020. Votes must be cast by midnight 18th September and the winners will be announced at a special virtual ceremony which will take place on 22nd September.”

The finalists in the Hospitality Lockdown Hero Awards are:

THE OUTSTANDING BUSINESS OF LOCKDOWN

• • • • • •

Viva Italia Group (Scotland) The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation (Northampton) Littleton Green Community School (Staffordshire) La Tua Pasta (London) GiveLocally (Nationwide) Thomas Franks (UK, Malta & Portugal)

THE OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUAL OF LOCKDOWN • • • • • •

Kate Nicholls – UKHospitality (Nationwide) Greg Mangham - Only A Pavement Away (London) Tony Matharu - Blue Orchid Hotels (London) Frank Bothwell - Thomas Franks Ltd. (UK, Malta & Portugal) Rob Kirby - Lexington Catering (London) Mark Cribb - Urban Guild and Humans of Hospitality (Bournemouth)

THE BEST COMMUNITY INITIATIVE • • • • • • •

Angel & Crown (Richmond) Manorview Hotels & Leisure Group (Nationwide) Sommerins at Home (Wales) Horse & Dove Limited (Uttoxeter) Point A Hotels (Nationwide) OSO Arts Centre (London) The Star Inn (Harbottle, Northumberland)

THE MOST IMPACTFUL SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN • • • • • •

Brewgooder (Nationwide) MacGregor's Bar (Inverness) B3 Designers (London) The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa (Skipton, North Yorks) Bedlam Brewery (East Sussex) Adam Handling at Home (London)

THE BEST BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION • • • • • •

La Tua Pasta (London) Cheshire Cat Pubs and Bars Ltd (Cheshire) Rotunda Comedy Club (Glasgow) The Greyhound Inn (Sydling St Nicholas, Dorset) The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa (Skipton, North Yorks) The Devenish Complex (Belfast)

THE MOST DYNAMIC COLLABORATION • • • • • •

Only A Pavement Away (London) HospoLive (Nationwide) The Grand Outdoor Café (Nationwide) Place of the Way (London) Supersonic Inc Ltd. (Nationwide) The Core Collective (Nationwide)

THE MOST INSPIRING PRODUCT OR SERVICE

The Most Innovative At-Home Experience

• • • • • •

• • • • • •

Open Kitchen (Manchester) Philip Watts Design (Nationwide) Chefbay (Nationwide) Criton (Nationwide) Claridge’s (London) Eagle Eye Solutions Group Ltd. (Nationwide)

Signature Brewery (Nationwide) Mac & Wild (Nationwide) Chefbay (Nationwide) Place of the Way (Nationwide) The Lost Estate (Nationwide) Wedgwood the Restaurant (Nationwide)

Pizza Hut to Close 29 Restaurants with 450 Jobs at Risk Pizza Hut has announced plans to cloes 29 of its 244 UK restaurants, putting an estimated 450 jobs at risk.

The restaurant chain is in talks with creditors over a proposed turnaround deal in the form of a creditors voluntary arrangement (CVA) following "significant disruption" from the Covid pandemic. The chain currently faces annual rents of £20 million which it is seeking to reduce.

Pizza Hut said earlier this week that it was forced to restructure because sales are not expected to fully recover until “well into 2021”.

Pizza Hut Delivery or related franchises will not be affected by the job cuts.

A spokesperson for the chain said: "We are committed to doing the right thing, and in order to secure as many jobs as possible and continue serving our communities, we are working to reach an agreement with our creditors.

"While we are likely to see 29 Hut closures and 450 job losses, any measures we take aim to protect about 5,000 jobs at our remaining 215 restaurants, as well as the longevity of the business.

"We understand this is a difficult time for everyone involved.

"We appreciate the support of our business partners and are doing everything we can to help our team members during this process,

including speaking with those affected by the consultation."

"While we are likely to see 29 Hut closures and 450 job losses, any measures we take aim to protect about 5,000 jobs at our remaining 215 restaurants, as well as the longevity of the business.

"We understand this is a difficult time for everyone involved.

"We appreciate the support of our business partners and are doing everything we can to help our team members during this process, including speaking with those affected by the consultation."

Hotels In ‘Staycation’ Destinations Are Attracting A Surge In Attention From Investors The changes brought about by COVID-19 have extended the reasons for buying a hotel to a diverse range of investors, according to Colliers International The trend for UK ‘staycation’ breaks has resulted in a spike in trade in hotels located in popular tourist destinations, according to global real estate advisor Colliers International.

Julian Troup, head of UK Hotels Agency at the global real estate advisor, said changes in tourism brought about by COVID-19 were bringing new opportunities to the UK hotels industry in the form of a diverse range of prospective purchasers.

“A significant spike in trade in hotels located in areas popular for ‘staycations’ has been observed by our teams throughout the UK, in most popular tourist destinations throughout the UK,” he said.

“All the signs are that this trend is set to continue, and that hotels in locations which benefit from ‘staycation’ holidays will attract a healthy level of interest in the months to come.

“These hotels offer buyers a great place to live, work and make profit. They should attract more funding support and, based on the impressive trading figures and forecasts we have seen, in most cases will provide buyers with a solid return on investment.”

Mr Troup said that while lockdown had inevitably impacted upon the market, Colliers International had recently seen an increase in general enquiries, with an over 200% uplift in formal viewings in July when compared with the previous month.

He added that three distinct types of would-be buyers had been getting in touch, namely investors, developers and lifestylers. While investors were being attracted by the strong fundamentals of the ‘staycation’ market; developers were interested in the opportunities offered by well-located hotels which could be changed to residential use, subject to planning permission. Meanwhile, lifestylers were seeking an escape route from the ‘rat race’.

Mr Troup explained: “An increasing flow of opportunistic investment buyers have been contacting us, presumably attracted by anticipated pricing adjustments taking place among hotels with a greater reliance upon corporate and events trade. There are still numerous well-heeled cash buyers out there, as well as plenty of overseas buyers and investors in waiting.

“We have also been receiving a noticeable increase in alternative use enquiries from developers and other types of operator. If planning rules are relaxed, we expect to see certain hotels also attracting interest for alternative use “There has always been a steady stream of lifestyle purchasers. However, all the signs are that more people will decide they want to consider a complete lifestyle change, cannot face returning to work, and

“With many wishing to leave living and working in cities, buying a hospitality business in a location of their choice is a real alternative, particularly where the move is enforced in the event of redundancy or having to downsize. In the last recession we saw many examples of new to the industry buyers who took advantage of being able to invest redundancy monies as well as releasing equity from their house sale.”

Mr Troup added that the resilience of the market was demonstrated by way in which even during the lockdown, Colliers had completed a number of sales, notably Boscundle Manor in Cornwall; The Radnorshire Arms hotel in Presteigne, Powys; The Angel & Royal, in Grantham; the historic 15 bedroom The George Hotel in Easingwold, North Yorkshire, and traditional coaching inn, The Bull Hotel in Burford, Oxfordshire.

“At Colliers International, where we typically have over 200 UK hotels for sale at any one time, we had been transacting on between 80 and 100 hotels and hospitality businesses each year and our pipeline was solid on the back of a strong Q1,” he said.

He added that the hotel industry appeared to be in a good place to benefit again from domestic travel, and that although overseas travel is now permitted with quarantine restrictions for those returning from some countries, a substantial number of holidaymakers were likely to take the option of replacing a fortnight in the Balearics with the three-to-four-day ‘coast and country’ breaks taken in the UK and Ireland.

“UK hotels have been proactive in responding to public anxiety about COVID-19 by providing demonstrably safe, clean accommodation featuring heightened cleaning protocols and standards. Those businesses with extra space will benefit as they will be better able to provide social distancing and greater comfort, but all hotels are reconfiguring to ensure that social distancing can be maintained.

“Hotels will adapt their offering to the changing times in which we are living, and business will return.

With all this in mind, we anticipate movement in the transactional marketplace will start again as early as Q3 of 2020.”

Workplaces around the nation are preparing for when the UK can return to a kind of normality. The Novellini Group presents a solution that will help to create safe working environments that are hygienic and adaptable. The BeSafe wall is a protective device that companies with any office, desk space, trade counters, cafe and restaurants can incorporate going forward.

The primary benefit? Hygiene. Employees will feel protected with the BeSafe wall as it provides a barrier. Constructed from 6mm tempered glass, it’s easy to clean with any alcoholic disinfectant. In smaller spaces where it’s difficult to sit two meters away, the wall is a particularly helpful solution.

Office teams aren’t the only ones who will be happy to see these walls put in place. BeSafe is a smart answer for all industries where contact with the public is required, such as pharmacies, retail counters, restaurants and public offices.

Novellini can customise each barrier to suit the space with three versions (floor mounted, trade counter, and desks) and five different sizes.

UK Sales Manager at Novellini, Stuart West says ‘We are looking to help the UK workforce where we can and these are a positive answer to those concerns about health and hygiene.’

Panasonic Rice Cookers are Ideal for cooking porridge at breakfast and keeps it hot for late risers when on standby without it drying out!

• Panasonic NE-C1275 13A plug-in combination microwave oven with ‘five-way’ cooking methods.

• Panasonic NE-1880 & NE-3280. The extra-large and

Novellini launch BeSafe walls to help the UK return to work safely

Mr Troup noted that prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, the market had been heating up as overseas investors moved in to take advantage of the weakness of sterling.

Users can now benefit from a free Panasonic rice cooker when they certain Panasonic microwaves via specialist supplier, Regale Microwave Ovens.

There are three other Panasonic ovens included in the promotion, but these qualifying for a FOC 7.2L Panasonic rice cooker. The ovens are the:-

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He said: “This range of interest from potential purchasers so soon after some pessimists were fearing the worst for the market comes as no surprise for those of us who can recall the foot and mouth outbreak back in 2001. At that time, there was concern that visitors would not return to areas such as the Lake District. Of course, we now know that they have – in droves.

Regale Microwave Ovens is offering a free Panasonic rice cooker with every purchase of some of the brand’s microwave ovens.

All enquiries received by Regale will be passed to the nearest geographical dealer, and both units will be dispatched by Regale to the operators on the UK mainland with next day delivery, free of charge.

CLH Digital

want to have an opportunity to control their own destinies.

Microwave Specialist Launches Its Biggest Ever Giveaway

One of the models where the giveaway applies is the Panasonic NE-1878, a 1,800W inverter-powered microwave designed to feature the benefits of an all metal door. With each purchase, companies can receive a free model SR-GA421 rice cooker, worth over £120, which will also come with 2kg of FOC Tilda rice inside.

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very powerful microwave ovens can take 2 x full size (1:1) Gastronorm pans.

• Each of these ovens comes with a 7.2litre Panasonic (model SR-GA721) rice cooker, Free Of Charge. Each rice cooker comes with a complimentary 5kg of Tilda Basmati rice. Furthermore, Regale will deliver the equipment free to any UK mainland operator on the next working day.

Regale deputy MD Iain Phillips said: “Of course there are a few terms and conditions with this fantastic giveaway, the main one being that it is restricted to ‘whilst stocks last’, however we are hoping that we can run it from now to somewhere towards the end of August.”

See the advert on the facing page for details or call 01329 285518.

As specialists in showers and design, Novellini are putting their skills to good use and many businesses across the UK will be pleased to find a safe and stylish solution. They are even available in several colours and glass finishes to suit the surroundings.

For more information contact Novellini UK on 01727 229922 or visit the website at www.novellini.co.uk For brochure and advice please email info-uk@novellini.com For large projects or orders, customized solutions can be evaluated. We are available to evaluate and propose BeSafe Wall solutions specific for your protection needs.

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

Three Trends Of The Post-Lockdown On Trade

By Andy Wingate, Senior Category Manager On Trade at HEINEKEN UK

Since lockdown and subsequently reopening were first announced, here at HEINEKEN we’ve conducted a number of pieces of research to best predict and help you prepare for the changes we expect to see in the on trade over the next few months. Using the latest insights and data from our Star Pubs & Bars estate, we are in a unique position as a supplier and an operator to provide a broader understanding and perspective of the current situation.

The outbreak of Covid-19 has resulted in the world talking consistently about the ‘new normal’. Naturally the big group occasions that we are used to seeing in the on trade are, have been reduced and now limited to groups of six, but other trends we anticipate will be an acceleration of previous behaviours.

Here are three trends to expect in the post-lockdown on trade and our recommendation on how best to prepare and adapt accordingly:

1. THE HIGHS AND LOWS IN FOOTFALL Consumers have settled into lockdown life and living with Covid-19 in the midterm. But, as we move into a new phase, new anxieties are emerging. Firstly, the fear of a second wave is increasing (+8%) to 76% , as the resumption of normal activities increase.

The on trade is at a point where over half of its customers have now returned (55%), and this figure has increased by +10pp on the same period two weeks ago . The increase in consumers returning is steepest in areas which re-opened last, with the proportion of consumers returning to Scotland increasing by +15pp versus two weeks prior (49%) . As we expect this percentage to steadily rise, there are still things you can be doing to reassure and encourage more customers into your outlet.

The latest data shows older customers remain the most concerned demographic and are more reluctant to visit the on trade. However, this is changing as 48% of over 55s have been out to the on trade, +14pp versus two weeks earlier . The most comfortable group are young men, who appear to feel less at risk and so have been quicker to return to previous behaviours . The difference between these demographics, in terms of intention to visit, is in fact increasing. Therefore, it’s crucial that operators can meet the needs of those who are visiting while at the same time reassuring those less comfortable to venture out.

Your offering – The current demographic split will have greater impact on products such as traditional Keg and Cask Ale, while venues such as Working Men’s Clubs and Community Pubs are likely to be more affected.

Look at appealing to different customer groups during different day- or week-parts to help maintain footfall.

• For example, consider running drinks promotions during quieter periods to encourage those customers not yet comfortable visiting during the evenings or weekends. We have previously been running Rhythm of the Week activities through our Star Pubs & Bars estate which generates footfall and loyalty with different consumer groups.

• Recent data has also demonstrated weekday food occasions are down as much as 44% versus the same time last year. So, it’s worth considering changing your menus and prices to attract more customers at this time. For more information on this, check out the Keg Talks podcast – Navigating the new normal. HEINEKEN customers can also make use of POS Direct to professionally print both safe social distancing signage and footfall driving materials.

Your cleaning regime – When asked “What would make you more likely to visit the on trade?” respondents’ most popular answers were enforced social distancing, regular viral cleaning and staff wearing PPE .

• In addition to displaying social distancing signage in your outlet, consider sharing these measures on social media, alongside images of people having a good time, enjoying your food and drink offering while following guidelines. Show that cleaning is being done regularly by having visible timesheets. Tick lists are commonplace in bathrooms but consider having these in other parts of your outlet at this initial stage of reopening.

• Finally, although we appreciate the fine balance of managing costs versus revenue, ensure you have enough staff to maintain this regular cleaning process. Your customers will notice this and feel more at ease witnessing it first-hand.

For more information on Managing Health & Safety Post-Lockdown check out the last Keg Talks podcast here.

Adopt barriers - The desire for a safe amount of space is reflected in the types of outlets customers are most comfortable in visiting. Overwhelmingly venues with garden seating areas are preferred (69%), with intimate bars and night clubs on the other end of the scale (22%) .

• When indoors, place screens in areas where there may be sub 2m interaction, e.g. the bar or between tables, as this is a great way to encourage physical distancing indoors.

• The British public has embraced the value of facemasks. Consider making PPE available to your staff and encourage its use, particularly when handling food and drink.

• Sealing or wrapping cutlery, condiments and food for take away indicates no unnecessary contact has been made.

• Sanitiser and free masks available for patrons demonstrates your customers’ health is priority to you as a business • Use a simple contactless and at-table payment software solution such as Swifty, to reduce unnecessary human contact, encourage reservation of tables in advance and manage capacity.

Tone of voice - After a period of uncertainty and difficulty, there is optimism for the future and that as a nation we’re over the worst of the Covid-19 crisis.

• Using humour and positivity in signage or online implies this optimism and reminds consumers of the good times they’ve had in your venue.

Community minded - Being vocal and visible within your local community will help keep your business front of mind and therefore one of the first choices people consider when going out.

• Embrace digital – including a great website and social media presence – to communicate your opening times, food and drink offering, facilities such as Wi-Fi and measures being taken to maximise customer safety.

• Think of ways to engage with and encourage interaction with your followers on social media that are in keeping with your venue type. For example, if you are a sports bar talk about iconic sporting moments that people may have watched in your venue.

Marketing to younger consumers - As mentioned, this demographic is far more comfortable visiting the on trade and have been the bulk of early adopters since reopening. Therefore, it’s crucial you market your outlet to them in the right way.

• In the UK there are now 45 million social media users, this equates to 67% of the entire population. Of these, 39 million are mobile social media users , therefore, your online presence is vital.

• Facebook has been proven to be the most effective means of reaching an audience. 40 million people – or 71% of UK adults – can be reached via Facebook adverts . However, Instagram is typically the preferred platform among younger consumers. We would recommend focussing on three platforms – Facebook, Instagram and Twitter – to communicate with new or existing customers. Make sure you devote enough time to your online presence, including advertising your venue, sharing photos or responding to questions or reviews. Check out our social media advice on The Pub Collective or the recent Building your brand online and through social media Keg Talks podcast for more information and support.

Working from home has become the norm - The tech now in place for remote working has created a new normal for meetings. Remote workers will likely be tired of the same surroundings, so make your outlet a destination for them to work in, by: • Offering free WIFI, coffee refills and power points at table for customers to charge their computers and phones.

• Consider also offering table-service to encourage that purchase of a second drink or perhaps stay for lunch or dinner.

Customers won’t always feel comfortable leaving their items to go to the bar, so come to them and offer them something extra. Research shows that 80% of consumers would order a second drink if asked , so this is a great way to

boost sales plus elevate your customer service. Alternatively, payment and loyalty apps like Swifty will enable workers to order and pay for food or drinks from their table.

• Consider the layout of your outlet. Can this be adapted to provide quiet areas and single seat tables? Naturally most on trade venues are designed to encourage socialising, however during the daytime and other typically quieter trading occasions this is a great way to improve your income by creating a space for remote workers.

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE EXPERIENCE Although there will be challenges over the next few months, the on trade is a core element of society, often seen as a pillar ensuring good mental well-being through encouraging socialising. The challenge will be whether this period has taught consumers that they can have an enjoyable night out without the associated costs of being in the on trade.

It is imperative therefore that the on trade markets itself effectively and delivers the one unique selling-point, the experience. Whether it’s a knowledgeable member of staff explaining a new dish on the menu or a freshly pulled pint of ale, the on trade experience is one of a kind and not something that can be replicated at home. Here are some top tips on how to ensure you’re offering customers an unbelievable experience: • A perfect serve, every time. Perhaps most importantly following reopening, it’s crucial that you provide customers with a great serve every time they order. Whatever the drink, it has to be better than what they usually have at home to remind them why they come out to the on trade. A fresh, cold, perfectly poured pint is something that consumers simply cannot get at home and have sorely missed! Consider providing your staff with free mobile training, such as Hello BEER, to upskill and upscale their knowledge of beer and cider.

• Exceed expectations. At the very least, consumers expect friendly, knowledgeable bar staff, a good atmosphere, clean toilets and the use of technology for payment. They respond well to an extensive range of alcoholic drinks and soft drinks mixers, as well as table service. To deliver beyond expectation, consider offering new or different drinks choices, locally-sourced products or healthy food and drink options.

• Deliver a unique experience. Outlets are shying away from traditional activations in favour of more memorable, bespoke activities. However, thanks to Zoom calls and lockdown events, the Pub Quiz is not dead and is in fact thriving! Quizzes can be either free to enter with a drinks voucher given to the winner, or subject to an entry fee with the money collected used as the prize fund.

3. THE USUAL ORDER? We believe over time behaviours will continue to revert to ‘normal’ and the role of beer and cider will remain unchanged. Occasions drive the choice of drink.

While big occasions not possible at this time, reasons to visit the on trade are largely the same meaning the drinks chosen will be the same too.

Draught accounts for 90% of on trade sales volume , so remains vitally important within your offering. Packaged beer and cider may play a slightly more important role initially – especially amongst older drinkers – due to perceptions of safety but following best practice glass care and pouring techniques will not only deliver great quality pints but also help reassure your customers.

One of the biggest challenges that outlets will be experiencing is how to manage their draught offering. Footfall is currently lower than during a normal week. The average pub has nine keg lines, plus some cask ale on the bar.

With total beer sales currently down almost 30% , these volume levels will not sustain that number of lines. To get consumers coming back time and time again, pouring great quality beer is going to be even more important. If weekly throughputs are not assured, freshness and quality can be compromised, impacting the consumer experience.

• Our recommendation is to bring back your beer range in stages – start with a few lines, say half or two thirds of your usual line-up, then build up as you get more confident with the amount of custom that you are going to expect. While we acknowledge many businesses will now be open, we encourage all to continuously monitor sales and react accordingly. For example, if throughput is compromised then consider your mix of draught versus packaged and offer only on your best sellers on tap until volumes increase.

• Once you have a core range in place, you can look to add some more premium offerings to your bar. We still expect premiumisation to be a trend in the post-lockdown on trade. The brands that have seen biggest uplifts have generally been those on the more premium end of the scale and the long term trend of ‘drinking less, but better’ is very much alive.

• Across both beer and cider, premiumisation delivers a price advantage but at the cost of lower volumes. A mainstream brand can deliver twice the volume of your premium offering , so ensuring strong throughput and therefore quality should be the primary consideration. Consider initially using your packaged range to offer more premium choices, before losing classic lager or mainstream cider from your range.

• We certainly see most premium brands holding a bigger share in 2020 than 2019, but this is a trend to be followed once you have established a strong core offering that appeals to as many consumers as possible. Brands like Foster’s and Carling, John Smiths and Strongbow remain vital to the future of the on trade. Three in every five pints poured is one of the big six brands: Carling, Foster’s, Carlsberg, Guinness, John Smiths and Stella Artois. Strongbow is the same for the cider category . By offering a classic lager, mainstream apple cider, a stout and a keg ale first on your bar will give you a solid, good quality foundation before starting to premiumise your draught offering as volumes increase.

• It’s important to remember that the occasion determines the drink choice. Where customers selected no and low alcohol options previously will remain unchanged, such as a lunchtime catch up with a friend or as a designated driver. Pre-lockdown consumers were blurring the lines between health and enjoyment so they could indulge in a balanced way, whilst still enjoying the community feel of a pub. Moderate drinking or going out without drinking alcohol at all will remain popular, so having a good range of no and low alcohol options is key for all your customers to feel part of the occasion.

• Finally, with 90% of consumers preferring draught to bottled beer consider stocking alcohol-free beer on draught.

Heineken’s BLADE beer dispense system allows you to serve freshly tapped pints of Heineken 0.0 from any counter-top.

BLADE's plug and play advantage means that you don't have to swap out an existing tap to meet this consumer demand for draught. Plus, the kegs last longer once broached (up to 1 month) and contain no preservatives. Draught also commands a higher price point so, along with more people choosing no or low alcohol on more occasions, means more cash in your till. In Star Pubs & Bars, stocking Heineken 0.0 in both packaged and draught format delivered 133% uplift in volume sales versus selling packaged alone . Your customers are format loyal, so having non-alcoholic beer on draught and in the fridge drives inclusivity and encourages greater sales all-round.

IN SUMMARY At HEINEKEN we have absolutely no doubt that the on trade will bounce back. It won’t be without challenges, but the pub holds a special place in the hearts and communities of the British people. During lockdown we saw licensees pivot their businesses to provide vital services such as a local shop, takeaway and delivery, and supporting the NHS or vulnerable groups. Following reopening, the on trade has adapted to make traditional spaces socially distanced for the welfare of their customers and staff. Pubs, bars and restaurants are hugely important to people’s lives and consumer positivity is returning. Through continued support, sharing of advice, new tools and services, we will give the hospitality sector the best chance of bouncing back and returning to the place we all know and love.

During lockdown consumers went out of their way to support local businesses and retailers. Now, with the reopening phase well under way, we expect the hospitality sector will receive a similar level of support from the nation.

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Government Announce New Grants for Businesses Affected by Local Lockdowns Businesses in England required to close due to local lockdowns or targeted restrictions will now be able to receive grants worth up to £1,500 every three weeks, Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay told MPs today. To be eligible for the grant, a business must have been required to close due to local Covid 19 restrictions. The largest businesses will receive £1,500 every three weeks they are required to close.

Smaller businesses will receive £1,000.

Payments are triggered by a national decision to close businesses in a high incidence area. Each payment will be made for a 3 week lockdown period.

Each new 3 week lockdown period triggers an additional payment.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Steve Barclay said: These grants provide businesses with a safety net as they temporarily close their doors to help save lives in their local areas.

As local economies eventually and carefully re-open after local interventions, our Plan for Jobs is there waiting to help businesses get back on their feet, protect jobs and thrive in the future.

Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: No business should be punished for doing the right thing, which is why today’s package will offer additional breathing space for businesses that have had to temporarily close to control the virus.

Through our wider Plan for Jobs, we will continue

Issue 23

CLH Digital

to back our innovators and job creators across the country who are playing a critical role as we build back better from the pandemic.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Barclay also reiterated the recent commitment to roll-out additional payments for people on low incomes who are required to self-isolate in areas with high levels of Covid-19.

Currently these payments are available in Blackburn with Darwen, Pendle, and Oldham as part of an ongoing trial scheme.

This targeted support is in addition to businesses eligibility for the Government’s existing schemes of support to businesses which remain available to impacted companies. This includes the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which has supported the wages of 9.6 million people so far, government backed loans and business grants worth up to £25,000 per property.

This help will also support local jobs dependent on impacted businesses, complementing the Chancellor’s Plan for Jobs.

Other measures announced to protect, support and create jobs include the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, cutting VAT for tourism and hospitality by 15%, a £2 billion Kickstart Scheme, which has opened for applications, and an £8.8 billion investment in new infrastructure, decarbonisation and maintenance projects.

New Report From Steelite International Offers Expert Insights Into Creating Safe And Memorable Dining Experiences Tableware specialist Steelite International has released a report designed to help the hospitality sector get back up and running.

The report, called Back to Business, Back to the Table, features interviews with industry experts as well as advice from seasoned operators and practical tips from Steelite’s in-house specialists.

As hotels, bars and restaurants reopen, operators will be looking to invest wisely, while consumers will demand quality, hygiene and safety. Back to Business, Back to the Table offers practical advice on what measures to take to remain safe without losing the all-important dining experience. The report also highlights the many benefits of quality British-made tableware, compared to disposable or cheaper alternatives.

Steelite makes its core range in Stoke-on-Trent and the report finds that while first instincts may lead operators to believe purchasing disposable tableware and cutlery is the safest option during Covid-19, clearing tableware after each course and washing using a commercial grade dishwasher gives businesses complete control over tableware handling.

Industry experts underscore the environmental and business reasons for using a venue’s own tableware, cutlery and glassware and Steelite’s research shows the on-going cost of replacing cheaper, imported tableware far outweighs any perceived initial savings.

Leo Kattou, Head Chef at Simpsons, who is one of a number of industry experts featured in the report, says: “Investing in quality tableware is all about attention to detail. We spend a lot of time and effort in creating and plating up quality dishes – it is important to match that with the tableware.

Covid-19 hasn’t changed what tableware we intend to use, but we’re being more conscious of hygiene

levels. If you are using good quality tableware, then there’s the reassurance that it cleans more efficiently and lasts.”

Steelite’s Lifetime EdgeChip Warranty provides assurance that all Distinction and Performance products manufactured in the UK factory will withstand the rigours of the modern commercial kitchen and remain chip free. The company’s high alumina content makes its tableware extremely strong and durable − and less likely to chip or crack during service.

According to the British Ceramic Confederation’s #DineSafe campaign, which is supported by Steelite, chipped or cracked plates can absorb bacteria. The campaign is based on Spanish guidance by the Hotels sector, which warns against serving food and drink on broken or cracked dishes or utensils.

John Miles, President and CEO Steelite International, says: “For almost 150 years, Steelite International has been expertly manufacturing specialised ceramics tailored to the hospitality industry.

Our core range of tableware is made in the UK, at our factory in Stoke-on-Trent, the home of the pottery industry. Throughout our history, we have proudly strived for excellence, meeting concerns for safety, durability, and aesthetics, which have always been the key drivers for the business.

“The current environment sees some key aspects come to the fore within the hospitality sector.

Operators will seek out products that provide their customers with the safest, most hygienic solutions with competitive aesthetics. Companies that have been producing chinaware for all these years should be the natural choice, with a proven track record in providing quality products of the highest standard.”

To access a copy of the report, visit https://tinyurl.com/y39qp4nm

Tel: 01495 772164 I 07967 402995 www.shophygiene.co.uk

15

The New Approach to Cleaning in Hospitality 16

CLH Digital

Issue 23

By Peter Teska, Global Infection Prevention Application Expert, Diversey The novel coronavirus pandemic has ushered in a new era of housekeeping. Some large hospitality chains have turned to accreditation programs to make guests feel safe1, while others have developed cleanliness councils to ensure cleaning and disinfection best practices are being implemented.2 Hospitality groups and independent owners are prioritizing cleaning and disinfection to protect guests and employees – and to instil customer confidence.

As the purpose of cleaning transforms, teams within the sector must understand how to advance their environmental hygiene programs.

With a new approach built on a foundation of health and safety, organizations can prevent the spread of infections to protect employees, guests and building visitors.

THE SHIFT FROM CLEANING FOR APPEARANCE Prior to the pandemic, outlets primarily focused on “cleaning for appearance” to secure five-star reviews and positive word of mouth.

From shiny lobby floors to clean linens, properties focused on looking their best to make a good first impression. First impressions set the tone for a guest’s visit, so the visual presentation of a hotel’s interior and exterior must be carefully crafted and maintained.

However, when faced with a global pandemic “cleaning for appearance” is no longer good enough. People have become much more concerned with germs and expect that a hotel, pub or restaurant is “cleaning for health” to control exposure to these threats.

“Cleaning for health” inactivates viruses and kills bacteria and fungi to limit the spread of potentially harmful pathogens. Cleaning with an emphasis on infection prevention prioritizes giving guests a safe stay and

also protecting workers. Given the scope and impact of the pandemic, increased expectations around cleanliness will become the norm as the tourism and hospitality industry recovers.

TAKING CLEANING TO THE NEXT LEVEL Best practices that hotels should consider when implementing a “cleaning for health” program include: • Consult with industry experts from the start – With the health of your employees and guests at stake, take the necessary precautions and build an environmental hygiene program based on evidence and facts. Consult with infection prevention and hygiene experts to understand the how and why behind cleaning and recommended protocols. Some hotels are working closely with medical centres and hygiene providers to establish best practices that everyone can follow.

• Implement safe products that are proven to perform – Employees will need to clean more regularly and thoroughly, so they’ll be more exposed to cleaning solutions. A “cleaning for health” program should consider ways to protect housekeeping staff. For example, review the ingredients and manufacturer’s instructions for each product to ensure they don’t pose any risks.

Choose hospital-grade disinfectants that clean and disinfect at the same time and don’t require two applications. Make sure that disinfectants are tough on pathogens, but gentle on people and surfaces to prevent eye and skin irritation and surface damage. Additionally, confirm that the contact time is reasonable, as it will be difficult for employees to keep surfaces wet for extended periods of time.

• Conduct quality training – A more rigorous and evidence-based approach to cleaning can only be successful if employees understand the expectations, processes and mistakes to avoid. Focus on how to properly disinfect, which requires thorough application over the duration of the contact time, followed by wiping to eliminate residues. Highlight ways to avoid cross contamination, protocols for dealing with confirmed coronavirus cases (or other serious illnesses) and the importance of proper chemical dilution if chemical concentrates are used.

• Make your commitment to cleanliness and your processes more visible – Make your dedication to hygiene known. Post signage throughout the property,

such as in lifts, guest rooms and fitness centres, that highlights how you are cleaning and disinfecting. Develop a cleaning schedule for housekeeping, front desk and bar and restaurant managers to follow. Cleaning while guests are present helps to prevent the spread of germs and demonstrates a hotel’s pledge to maintain high cleanliness standards.

A SAFE AND HEALTHY “HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME” With the hospitality and on-trade sector subject to restrictions and the threat of regional lockdowns , there will still be uneasiness about traveling and staying away from home where there is less control over cleanliness. To overcome this, hotels will need to clearly communicate the steps they are taking to protect guests. As cases of coronavirus drop and a vaccine emerges, the industry will rebound as people become more comfortable with traveling. Hotels that have demonstrated a commitment to health and safety will have a greater chance of winning and maintaining loyal customers in the long-term.

Peter Teska is a Global Infection Prevention Application Expert at Diversey,. For more information, visit www.diversey.com.

Hospitality Sector to ‘Walk for Calm’ and Promote Wellbeing, as Suicide Rates Reach a Two-Decade High Craig explained: “It’s time to not only highlight the importance of looking after our own mental health, but also promote wellbeing at every opportunity.

Walk for Calm is an opportunity to come together to do just that whilst supporting Hospitality Action and CALM and the terrific work they do - please walk, support and donate if you can.”

To promote better mental health in the hospitality sector and support the work of leading charities Hospitality Action and CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a new industrybacked Walk for Calm initiative will take place on 24 October 2020.

Announced today (10 September 2020), on World Suicide Prevention Day, the initiative will see a series of socially distanced, 20km fundraising walks take place in locations across the United Kingdom including London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Hospitality businesses and people from across the sector are being encouraged to unite and get involved.

Walk for Calm has been created in partnership with industry job board Caterer.com and has significant industry backing, with UKHospitality, Umbrella Training, The Caterer and Healthy Hospo all pledging their support

There were almost 6,000 suicides in the UK[i] in 2019 - three quarters of which were men. This was the highest figure for two decades and the impact of the pandemic and associated challenges in 2020 remains to be seen.

Mark Lewis, CEO, Hospitality Action commented: “Mental health isn’t a destination but rather a journey. These past few months have been trying for us all but especially those working in hospitality. By taking part in the Walk for Calm you’ll be keeping active and engaged, taking care of your own mental health as you take care of others.”

Walk for Calm is the idea of Craig Prentice, Founder of mum, talent partner and now pause, a free to access wellbeing initiative that promotes mindfulness and relaxation, and was launched during lockdown.

Kathy Dyball, Head of Marketing, Caterer.com commented on their involvement in the initiative: “Hospitality is a sector that relies on the resilience and happiness of its people in order to thrive. It’s a highly

rewarding sector to work in, but the demands on hospitality people are high and no more so than in 2020. Caterer.com are fully behind this initiative to bring the sector together to walk for wellbeing and raise awareness and funds for two incredible charities, who work tirelessly to support mental wellbeing and a world in which fewer people die by suicide. Our team will be joining the walks and we hope to see you there!”

Jo Simovic, COO, Umbrella Training added “CALM and Hospitality Action are amazing charities that bring crucial help in these times. The isolation that lockdown has brought to people, the worries about money and survival are triggers that can affect people's mental health and take them over the edge in some cases. With the rise in redundancies in hospitality and with suicides on the rise in UK, we have to do our bit to help support these charities. Umbrella Training will walk for CALM and Hospitality Action and we invite all of you to join us - every step counts.”

Tim Etherington-Judge, Founder, Healthy Hospo concluded “Exercise and physical activity, such as walking, is such an important part of holistic physical and mental health and we're really excited to partner with mum on this fantastic Walk for Calm initiative.”

To get involved and Walk for Calm sign up at https://www.justgiving.com/team/walkforcalm

NHS Workers Enjoy Weekend of Thanks Courtesy of Point A Hotels NHS workers across the UK enjoyed a 'Weekend of Thanks' over the August bank holiday, staying free of charge at all nine Point A Hotel locations.

In total, 280 deserving staff and their loved ones spent the long weekend enjoying the capital, whilst 190 guests took to Scotland, discovering all that Glasgow and Edinburgh have to offer.

The remaining NHS workers who took up the offer will enjoy their complimentary stay later this month.

Local businesses also offered some additional treats and discounts including spa and tour deals, to help guests make the most of their time away.

The NHS Weekend of Thanks was organised in response to research among 250 NHS staff that quantified the true impact of the pandemic. Not only did it strip workers of their downtime (16%), the research found that it negatively affected their relationships with family (41%), partners (32%) and friends (34%).

Many saw a spike in anxiety (58%) and stress (54%) levels and one in five (19%) didn't even have the opportunity to celebrate their own birthday this year.

“Such sacrifice made us determined to give something back” explains Point A

Managing Director Nic Wenn. “Like the rest of the UK, we have looked on over the past few months as these healthcare heroes have forgone their normal lives to help others. It was a no brainer for us to welcome them into our hotels this weekend and we hope they’ve had the opportunity to relax, explore and enjoy some much needed time away.”

NHS worker Ruby Topianco, said of her stay at Point A Kensington: “Can’t thank you enough for giving us this staycation. It was truly a grand staycation for us, a getaway from all the stress in the hospital.”

Her comments were echoed by Arlene, who stayed at the same hotel and said: “Thank you for letting us stay and extending your business to key workers - really appreciate it”.

Point A Hotels has announced a raft of new protocols that makes guests’ safety and wellbeing the number one priority. New measures, in line with government guidance, include the introduction of social distancing measures in the hotel as well as mechanisms that limit lift usage and maintain the highest standard of cleanliness throughout each building.

Scotland’s Pubs and Bars Face Unprecedented Challenges With Fears Up To 12.5k Jobs Could Be Lost Issue 23

The Scottish Licensed Trade Association has released a snapshot survey of the challenges facing Scotland’s pubs and bars, sponsored by KPMG UK. The survey contains key insights into the significant impacts of the COVID crisis on Scotland’s pubs and bars.

The survey which represents over 10% of Scotland’s On-trade premises, highlights that 45% of business owners do not expect a return to any sort of normal trading until a vaccine is found. The survey also revealed that up to 25% of the 50,000 jobs in the sector could be lost and coupled with the introduction of reduced opening hours for many businesses and a subsequent reduction in working hours for staff, all jobs in the sector are effectively under threat.

Colin Wilkinson, Managing Director of the SLTA, said: “Our snapshot survey covers all types of licensed premises and is an indicator of the key issues facing the wide range of small to large businesses which trade within the wider hospitality sector.

“Our survey is based upon quantitative research from over 600 outlets covering the length and breadth of the country and is supported by major food and drink chains, independent pubs, bars and hotels in Scotland’s hospitality sector.

“The impact of COVID has been more severe for Scotland’s pubs and bars than virtually any other sector, and we now face the stark reality that up to 12,500 jobs could be lost as nearly 90% of premises report

that their revenue is down versus last year, with 38% reporting revenue decreases of over 50%. Our own survey reinforces a recent survey by the University of Edinburgh on behalf of the tourism industry, which shows the devastating impact on employment in pubs, bars and the wider hospitality sector"

Wilkinson added: “Our sector has worked very hard to prepare for reopening and to ensure customers enjoy a safe environment. The average pub or bar spent £2,500 on training and social distancing measures, and this equates to a £15m investment across the entire sector. Also, many pubs and bars have adapted by making increased use of digital technology and offering restaurant quality food and cocktails for home delivery. However, with many people working from home, and local restrictions, one of Scotland’s major employment sectors faces unparalleled difficulties and the current business climate is leading to a real threat of permanent business closures and job losses’’ The sector welcomed the support from both the UK and Scottish Governments, but notably support from Banks and UK Government had a higher rating than Scottish or Local Government.

Alistair McAlinden, head of hospitality and leisure for KPMG in Scotland, said: “It’s incredibly concerning, but not entirely surprising, to hear that so many licensed trade operators across Scotland are worried about largescale job losses and possible business failures over the next twelve months. The industry is facing a battle for survival and there will

CLH Digital

21

inevitably be some casualties.

“KPMG’s Economic Outlook research gives some cause for cautious optimism, forecasting that Scotland’s economy should regain lost ground in 2021, provided a vaccine programme is successful and rolled out quickly. But, for many pubs and bars, the crisis is happening right now and time is running out.

“The sector has worked tirelessly to reopen and rebuild consumer confidence. A collaborative effort and increased support from political leaders will be essential to ensure the industry survives an incredibly challenging few months ahead.

“As part of this, KPMG’s multidisciplinary team are already supporting a number of licensed trade operators as they seek to navigate their way through these financial headwinds.”

Wilkinson concluded: “The SLTA, is currently celebrating our 140th anniversary, and has been the voice of the independent licensed Ontrade in Scotland since 1880. Right now, our industry is fighting for its survival with many businesses on the precipice of business failure. The sector is a critical part of Scotland’s tourism and food and drink economies and we urge UK, Scottish and Local Governments to provide continuing support for our pubs and bars and protect the jobs that they provide directly, and the associated jobs in the wholesaling, brewing/distilling and food producing sectors”

Greene King Pub Partners Reveals Surge In Applications For People Looking To Run Their Own Pub Despite the challenging times faced by pubs following the required 100-day closure due to Covid-19, Greene King Pub Partners received a record number of applications between mid-June and mid-August, with 254 people getting in touch wanting to run their own pub.

Even at the height of lockdown, there were 108 new, unique applications from people wanting to run their own pub between 24 March and 22 June.

The hope and ambition of the great British pub industry remains undaunted, Greene King Pub Partners can reveal, as the leased and tenanted pub company recorded its highest ever number of new applications across June, July and August.

partners during lockdown and beyond, with the majority of financial support coming in the form of rent concessions, with rent reduced by 90% from 11 June until four weeks after pubs could legally reopen, and rent concessions all the way through to October. There is also a package of discounts on kegs and casks running through to 2021.

From 22 June to 16 August this number rocketed to 254 new applications, more than double the same period in 2019.

Greene King Pub Partners has also launched a new recruitment website – www.greenekingpubs.co.uk – that will help meet the increased demand. The website’s new live chat function has been extremely popular and allowed for quick conversations with would-be licensees to get questions answered.

This comes after Greene King Pub Partners has provided £21m of support to its leased and tenanted

New virtual recruitment events are also being launched to allow anyone with an interest in running

a Greene King pub to find out more information.

Chris Thorogood, Greene King Pub Partners recruitment manager, said: “It’s really uplifting to see that people’s passion for running their own pub has not been daunted by recent events.

“We have recently invested in updating and relaunching our Pub Partners recruitment website so we can showcase a wide range of pubs to potential licensees looking to run their own business.

“We’re delighted with the number of enquiries we’re receiving and are working through them all now, we continue to be inspired by the passion people are showing in having the opportunity to run a Greene King tenanted pub.”

Why Eat Out to Help Out Will Not Be A Recipe For Success For All Restaurants 18

CLH Digital

Issue 23

By John Bell of Clarke Bell (www.clarkebell.com)

So, despite the Government’s concession, I fear we will see many more casualties in the hospitality sector over the coming weeks and months.

Facing financial difficulties, many restaurants are looking to reach an agreement with their creditors via a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA). A CVA is a procedure which allows a company to put a formal proposal to its creditors for a composition in satisfaction of its debts. It can last up to five years and means that the creditors can accept a sum of money as a way of settlement towards the debts which are owed to them. A CVA requires the approval of at least 75% in value of the creditors.

The Government’s initiative to help the hospitality sector with the introduction of the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ scheme has been a success with some 100 million meals being consumed during August. And, whilst the Chancellor is giving himself a huge self-congratulatory pat on the back on a move that has given the hospitality sector a much-needed boost, it is unlikely to be a complete rescue package for every company in the sector, given the serious challenges they are facing.

We are living and working in turbulent times and many restaurants have been caught up in the financial crisis brought on by the pandemic.

Other contributory factors include a steady decline in consumer spending, an over-saturation of restaurants, the pressure to compete with rival chains and on-line delivery firms. Confusion surrounding Brexit is also likely to have an impact on the cost and availability of supplies and is going to force restaurants to choose between increasing their prices or reducing profit margins – which, for many, are already very tight.

One reason that a CVA is popular with multi-site companies is that it can provide them with an ‘escape route’ from unprofitable sites. In the good times, a company will often carry these sites – but, when times are tough, they will be looking to keep only those sites which are making money. Through the CVA process, a company will be looking to get a reduction in rent and/or close the sites it no longer wants. The company’s landlord is left with the option of (a) accepting the CVA and a reduced rent, but having the company remain in the premises; or (b) not accepting the CVA and the company moving out, leaving them with an empty premises. Given the problems on the high street and so many already empty premises, landlords will often be prepared to take option (a).

The increasing number of companies closing down – either going through a CVA or going bust altogether – is having a knock-on effect on commercial landlords. I don’t think it will be long before we see an increase in the number of landlords who are looking for an insolvency option to help them deal with their cashflow problems. This could also impact people’s pension plans which often had an element of commercial property portfolios in their funds.

Because of the extraordinary circumstances we are in, there is now a new insolvency option to help companies knocked off balance due to

the Covid-19 crisis. The Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 came into effect on 26 June 2020 and is aimed at helping strong companies come through the Covid-19 crisis. It is not a solution for a socalled ‘zombie’ company. The Government does not want the procedure to be used by a company that has no chance of avoiding failure, as it is not intended to be used merely to postpone going into a formal insolvency procedure.

The Act introduces a new moratorium or ‘debtor in possession’ rescue plan – similar to Chapter 11 in America. It is designed to give a strong company the breathing space it needs to get things in order. It gives a business 20 business days’ protection from certain creditor action, with a monitor – who must be an Insolvency Practitioner, of their own choosing – overseeing the moratorium, but leaving the existing management to run the company’s day-to-day business.

The main aim of the moratorium is to help rescue the company, keep it trading and get it making profits. This could be via a new restructuring plan; or just an injection of new funds into the business; or with a Company Voluntary Arrangement. In these circumstances, I’d be expecting the CVA to last 12 months – rather than the more typical 5-year period.

After day 15 of the initial period, if the directors still need time to formulate a turnaround plan, they can extend the moratorium period by a further 20 business days, without having to get the approval of creditors.

Any further extension, which can be extended up to a year, would need the approval of the creditors or the Court.

Businesses need all the help they can get right now, and many restaurant owners have some tough decisions to make in the weeks and months ahead. For some, Covid-19 has been a recipe for disaster.

John Bell is a chartered accountant and licensed insolvency practitioner. He founded Clarke Bell in 1994. The firm is based in Manchester and helps business owners across the whole country.

Weddings & Events Saved at Liverpool Hotel Which Fell into Administration PEOPLE who booked weddings, parties and other events at of one of Liverpool’s best-known hotels are celebrating after the new operators vowed to honour all monies paid before it went into administration over the summer.

Hundreds of thousands of pounds had been paid to 30 James Street hotel leaving more than 200 events in the balance.

But now new operators Legacy Hotels & Resorts have worked out a deal with Moorfields, the administrators, to ensure that 127 weddings and 95 spa days, as well as more than 660bedroom reservations have not been lost.

A letter to the hundreds of people who paid deposits or in full for their event has been sent out this week telling them of the good news. It says that at the date of the administration on 25 June 2020, all deposits and advanced purchase payments became unsecured creditors of the administration and that no deposit money previously paid to 30 James Street had been passed to the Administrators which left the huge shortfall for weddings, accommodation and events scheduled.

30 James Street hotel reopened at the end of July after the Administrators appointed the new operators, Legacy Hotels, who also operate the Pullman Hotel on the waterfront and are opening a Novotel at the new Paddington Village.

Vicki Hanlon, General manager of the Grade II* listed four-star venue, said: “It’s amazing news and it has constantly been in the back of our minds whether this would be possible. The thought of telling anyone, especially a bride and groom, that their money which they had saved for their wedding was gone was unbearable.

“These will now be happy days and it feels like we can finally move on because how can you carry on planning, when there are people sat at home worrying about what’s going on. Now we can get back to where we should be, helping to organise the most important day of their lives.

The letter’s signatory Calum Colquhoun, Regional Operations Manager, for Legacy Hotels, wrote: “Whilst there is no obligation to do so, I am pleased to inform you that the new business will be honouring in full the value of any deposit paid to 30 James Street Limited on or before 15 April 2020.

“It has been a substantial task to address this financial issue, at the same time as

planning for the re-opening of the Hotel. I would like to thank you for your patience and understanding at what must have been a difficult and unsettling time.”

“All weddings are special, but when these go ahead in 2021 these will have that something extra and I get goose bumps thinking about it and I cannot wait to be part of it.

“Weddings aside, it’s great news for everyone else who had paid - hen parties, birthday celebrations, this has affected a whole range of people - it really is the best news we could have ever had.”

Mechline Extends HyGenikx Range with Fan Assisted Model for Larger Occupied Areas Specialist UK manufacturer Mechline Developments, has extended its popular HyGenikx air and surface steriliser range with the launch of a fan assisted model for larger occupied areas like offices, care homes, waiting rooms and retail and leisure facilities.

As Nick Falco, Product & Technical Director at Mechline explains: “The HyGenikx range already includes models for a wide variety of applications including kitchens, front of house, cold stores and washrooms – and with the addition of the new fan assisted model for larger occupied areas where air movements are minimal, the protection and peace of mind HyGenikx provides is now available for all areas.

“The fan assisted HyGenikx model utilises a combination of the most effective air and surface sterilisation technologies available, which are proven to target and kill viruses and bacteria and could help reduce the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

“Using HyGenikx will significantly improve hygiene to levels impossible to achieve with traditional cleaning methods alone, which helps to reduce both the transmission of infectious diseases and staff absenteeism. In addition, HyGenikx technology also eradicates unpleasant odours by tackling them at source.”

The fan assisted HyGenikx model is a plug and play option that is easy to connect to existing sockets and will quietly and safely go about its business – keeping staff and visitors protected from viruses and bacteria all day, every day, even in the hardest to reach areas.

The unit incorporates a robust vandal resistant aluminium outer casing and can be mounted to a wall or a ceiling with four screws or alternatively placed flat on supplied rubber feet. Models are available to suit areas from 25m² to 100 m².

For further information please go to www.mechline.com/hgx

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CLH Digital

Products and Services

Issue 23

Wicked Wolf - Multi-Award Winning Artisan Gin Dining in the New Normal with Sustainable

Launched in September 2015 under the banner “The Spirit of Exmoor® ’, Wicked Wolf® Exmoor Gin™ is a premium craft gin made from 11 botanicals, distilled and blended on the banks of the picturesque River Lyn, North Devon.

Wicked Wolf Exmoor Gin uses the combination of 11 exotic botanicals producing complex layers of citrus and pepper notes, finely balanced with the distinct flavours of juniper and coriander, resulting in a mature, premium spirit. Hibiscus, cardamom and kaffir lime leaves have been artfully blended with these traditional aromatics creating a full-flavoured, smooth gin.

filtered, bottled and labeled by hand in exclusive 100litre batches.Each aromatic is prepared by hand, infused and distilled separately resulting in 11 individual distillates which are then skilfully blended. This allows for complete control over the strength of each flavour, and enables consistency across each batch.

The gin is multiple filtered producing a 42% ABV, smooth, fullbodied and elegant spirit.Wicked Wolf Gin is best served with ice and lime over a sprig of thyme, but is equally at home neat with a block of ice or mixed with a quality tonic.

For further information visit www.wickedwolfgin.com

Pot distilled in a copper alembic still, Wicked Wolf Exmoor Gin is

JURA JX10 - Speciality Coffee From A Pro The JX10 impresses with its versatility, user-friendliness and individuality. Offering 31 different speciality coffees, this master of its art covers both the full range of coffees finished with milk and milk foam and the entire spectrum of black coffees.

maintenance products, ensure TUV certified hygiene and cleanliness.

Even the milk system in the JX10 is cleaned automatically at the touch of a button.

The machine also has a JURA Smart Connect integrated allowing state of the art automatic coffee

machine operation via Smartphone and the free J.O.E.* app. Available accessories include Waste Water and Ground Eject, a Nayax Cashless System, a Cup Warmer Professional and a Data Communicator.

The machine comes with a 12 month on-site warranty, parts and labour and prices start with the JX10 Package of machine with Cooler Housing and 2.5ltr Cool Control at £3050.00.

Easy to understand modern graphics mean that even first time users will be able to navigate to exactly what they want. Different speciality coffees can be programmed and given names according to your needs.

MODEL shown is JX10 in platinum with Cooler Housing and Cool Control inside.

Maintenance of the JX10 is just as easy as operation. Integrated rinsing and cleaning programmes, used in combination with original JURA

Visit uk.jura.com for further information.

*Registered.

rexmartins Induction Technologies The very real financial benefits available to your food service business when you use the latest in rexmartins Induction Technologies.

By leasing a rexmartins induction catering fryer or griddle you can achieve savings on energy and cooking oil that covers the monthly leasing costs, so your fryer or griddle effectively pays for itself!

The energy-saving benefits of induction equipment are well-known and used in countless commercial kitchens throughout the world. You can now benefit from induction technology in a range of exclusive and cost-effective rexmartins catering equipment, including fryers, griddles, pasta cookers, large bratt pans and much, much more!

Not all induction equipment is made the same, the rexmartins range has numerous exclusive patented parts and is built to last for many years, even in the most hos-

tile and demanding conditions. All the working components are water resistant; reducing the incidence of costly and inconvenient failure meaning we have some of the lowest failure rates in the industry.

Not all quality induction catering equipment has to be expensive. The rexmartins induction range is high on quality but the most cost effective option available on the market today.

LEASE TO CONSERVE CAPITAL COSTS Upgraded Technology Leasing provides companies with the ability to keep pace with technology. Leasing offers the option of deducting 100 percent of the lease payment as a business expense & 19% Tax relief.

To order, or for more information, please call 01892 543222 or email info@rexmartins.com or see the advert on page 24.

and Hygienic Wrapped Wooden Cutlery

Celebration Packaging’s EnviroWare® wooden cutlery is now available hygienically packed in a plasticfree wrapper.

“With the current heightened focus on hygiene, resulting from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, we are pleased to offer one of our popular sustainable product ranges with an added hygienic benefit,” says Celebration Packaging Managing Director Nick Burton. “Our well-proven high quality, smooth wooden cutlery range is now available hygienically wrapped.”

The EnviroWare® wooden cutlery range consists of a knife, fork and two sizes of spoon. Each piece is available individually wrapped, plus there is a popular meal kit option containing a knife,

Meet the Hands-Free Alcoholic Drinks Vending Machine from VendEase A new touch- free alcoholic drinks vending machine from VendEase enables the newly opened hospitality industry to offer a bar service that keeps staff and customers safe post lockdown.

VendEase has announced an innovative, age verified, alcoholic drinks vending machine, which is set to help the hospitality industry keep people safe and socially distance as hotels, pubs and cafes open their doors in a new, post lockdown landscape.

The machine from VendEase minimises guest contact points and enables safe distancing by allowing purchases to be made via a mobile phone. The customer scans a QR code, which then produces a visual interface that can be operated from their screen. The drink is then dispensed into a delivery tray that has been treated with a special sterilising coating that also prevents bacteria and viruses taking hold.

Also in development are additional safety features such as a UV-C light beam that passes over all products to destroy viruses, which will be implemented later in 2020.

‘Technology has changed the face of vending and this new machine is a timely development for the hospitality industry,’ says VendEase co-founder Dave

PACKAGING. Previously called ‘Crackles’, the leading scratching in supermarkets has been re-named ‘Scratchings’ in line with consumer feedback, but the unique, triple-cooked recipe is unchanged and packs retain their distinctive gold look. Pack sizes and RRP: 65g RRP £1 / 6pk (6x16.5g) RRP £2

‘Crispy Strips’ - THE LIGHTER PRODUCT WITH UPDATED PACKAGING.

Producing mouth-watering scratchings since 1960, Mr Porky is No. 1 brand, with a 44% share7 and is going from strength to strength, growing at 5.1% YoY*. The new Mr Porky range now comprises of three products:

‘Mr Porky Hand Cooked Scratchings’ - A NEW PRODUCT With a delicious Great Taste 2 Star award-winning recipe, this new, premium product is hand cooked in small batches to be the ultimate pork scratching! This pack had the highest purchase intent of any pack in the consumer research and promises to become a top-seller. Pack sizes and RRP: 65g RRP £1.49 / 40g RRP £1

‘Original Scratchings’ – MR PORKY’S BEST-SELLING SCRATCHING: RENAMED AND WITH REFRESHED

“Many consider Celebration as the sustainable foodservice cutlery experts,” says Nick Burton. “We won a silver award for our EnviroWare® paper cutlery in the Innovation Challenge at the lunch! show at London’s ExCel last year. The judging panel said: “The EnviroWare® paper cutlery is a real contender for the future of foodservice cutlery”.

For further information or to order please visit www.celebration.co.uk

Take a Fresh Look at the UK’s Best-Selling Pork Snacks

Tayto, the UK’s leading supplier of pork snacks1, has announced a refresh of all its brands with new-look packaging plus some exciting new products and formats.

fork, spoon and 22cm square brown paper napkin. The cutlery is made from wood from sustainable forestry and has full FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) chain of custody accreditation, while the unbleached paper wrapping is plastic free.

This Great Taste award-winning pork snack has a lighter bite designed to attract new, younger consumers and create new pork snacking occasions.

Pork scratchings tend to be consumed in the evening, especially at the weekend, so this lighter eat opens up daytime and on-the-go snacking without compromising on the crunch and taste of a scratching. Pack size and RRP: 35g RRP £1 Tayto also boasts another Great Taste 2 Star award winning brand Midland Snacks - which is delivering outstanding growth at +28% YoY** .

The pinnacle of the traditional scratching, this is ultimate pub snack and is Tayto’s best-selling pubcard! These finest quality, traditional pork scratchings are hand cooked to taste as good as they look - with a traditional crunch and flavour that creates that special pub feeling which has stood the test of time. The updated packaging retains a traditional look that showcases this much-loved, artisanal British delicacy.

For those looking for a lighter alternative to a traditional scratching, Tayto’s The Real Pork Co. offers consumers and retailers the opportunity to widen their meat snacking repertoire. By double-cooking the finest rind

Berman. ‘It is an ideal solution for drinks serving in a post-Covid world where hotels are uncertain as to how to best organise their F&B functions with so many new rules in place. It also means they can attract guests who are hesitant about engaging with bars and restaurants, whilst keeping tight control of their F&B labour spend’ The touch-free machine uses a piece of software that allows for age control, meaning drinks cannot be bought by anyone who is underage. Guests are issued with a PIN code or a dedicated fob that unlocks the alcoholic selections in the machine.

VendEase already supplies UK hotels with vending units that provide everyday essentials, snacks and ready meals and the new touch free alcoholic drinks machine can also be used to dispense these items, allowing outlets to keep profits from alcohol sales.

‘The hotel buys the machine then pays us a small percentage of revenue, which includes installation, training, credit card fees, access to cloud-based sales information and all maintenance and support. All sales generated go directly to the hotel. They can stock it accordingly, setting their own price points,’ says Dave Berman.

The 42” HD Screen on the unit can also be used to interact with 3rd party service providers (gym’s, ticket sales, car parking, tourist attractions etc), which provides an additional revenue stream over and above alcohol sales.

Visit www.vendease.co.uk for further information.

- by hand - in small batches, The Real Pork Co. has created snacks with all the taste of a scratching but with a lighter texture. Crunch is the lightest eat – a delightfully airy pork puff. Crackling is a modern twist on a scratching but with a lighter, bubbly texture opening up pork snacking to those who are looking for an alternative to a traditional scratching. Both are smothered in a mouth-watering seasoning with no nasties (free from artificial flavours, colours, MSG and gluten). The new-look, premium packaging has been specifically designed to target younger, more affluent consumers who are looking to expand their snacking horizons.

MERCHANDISING ADVICE Pork scratchings are synonymous with the pub and really are the ultimate pub snack. With 83% of pork snacks being consumed with a drink4 they are a ‘must stock’ item. Matt explains, “As licensed venues begin to rebuild their trade, maximising the revenue from each customer is vital.

Adding a bag of scratchings to a drink can deliver around 50p per transaction - and they are VAT free! To maximise sales, pubcards should be prominently displayed behind the bar and Tayto can also supply bar runners and beer mats to help prompt customers to purchase. Given that space is at a premium in many bars, stick to proven brands such as Mr Porky - the nation’s favourite - and our best-selling pubcard - Midland Snacks Traditional Scratchings.”

The new range will be rolling out across On-trade, all major mults and Convenience over the next few weeks.

The packs may look different, but the terrific taste and quality aren’t changing – that unique taste can be passed on to generations to come! * IRI Market Place | Total GB | Total Crisps, Snacks & Popcorn | Value | MAT to 170520 |44.4% brand share ** IRI Market Place | Total GB | Total pork Snacks | Value | MAT to 17 May 20

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are consumed consumed with a drink1 83% of pork snacks are 2

Stock the top top two two pork snacks brands brands Stock

More than 1 in 7 people will not buy another More product if a pork snack isn’t available available3 - so don’t product mis s out on these incr miss incremental profits ofits emental pr SOURCES: Norstat | 4,009 4,009 pork snacks snacks occasions 1. Norstat occasions | Jan 20 Market Place Place | GB Symbols Symbols & Independents | Total 2. IRI Market Total Pork Pork Snacks Snacks | Value Value | MAT MAT To To 17 May May 20 Norstat | 715 715 pork snacks snacks consumers consumers | Licensed 3. Norstat Licensed venues venues | Jan 20 CGA Strategy Strategy Research Research 2016/17 2016/17 4. CGA

Merchandising Tip Snack sales increase by up to 80% when they are made more visible4 so stock our best-selling pubcard.

22

CLH Digital

Issue 23

Technology and Software

Contactless, Branded Hotel App For Your Guests

Vamoos, the App for Hotels, makes it so simple for you to keep your guests, staff, and hotel safe, all while delivering the same magical experience they’re used to with better customer service than ever before.

Through your own, branded hotel app, you will be able to:

- Create a full hotel directory with all the information your guests need at their fingertips - Instant message back and forth with guests so reception needn’t be open - Encourage more bookings for activities, table reservations, tours, and much more - Accept virtual Do Not Disturb requests which guests can manage themselves - Share a list of local points of interest that your guests can visit that are open and safe - Allow guests to check themselves in and out remotely And what’s more, your own app can be set up and shared with guests in just minutes! Don’t believe us?

Sign up for your free 1-month trial and see for yourself, and join the hundreds of other hotels around the world who have taken their guest experiences to new heights.

Visit our website on vamoos.com for more information and to sign up, or contact the team on info@vamoos.com.

ROUND - The Order, Pay and Loyalty App

Round is the brainchild of Ethan Martin, who, whilst still at university, wanted to develop a simpler, more accessible means of transacting digitally, on university campuses as well as high street bars and coffee shops.

Like many of his generation, life for them is online, they don’t want to carry cash and they don’t want to have to download a plethora of individual apps. Most of all, Ethan & his co-founder, Harry, felt that you shouldn’t have to be a rocket scientist to be able to order a pint or a coffee over your phone.

Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Brighton, ROUND is at the forefront of the digital revolution that is shaping the hospitality industry. Launching at Northfield Bar at Sussex University, the free to join app is enables our community of pubs across the country to accept mobile payments, helping them keep their staff and customers safe. ROUND has signed a partnership agreement with EI Group and Greene King Pub Partners to allow their Leased and Tenanted estates and free trade customers to take advantage of our affordable and easy to use mobile ordering system. The app has been developed over the last two years from a university bedroom to a shipping container to a thriving startup with our central Brighton office.

Whilst the app launched successfully at the University of Sussex before lockdown, ROUND has been helping publicans across the country reopen their

venues and start serving customers again.

There are now hundreds of ROUND enabled venues across the UK & we are constantly adding more but at the time of print the following are accepting ROUND orders in Brighton & Hove: The Mucky Duck, The Foundry, The Crescent, The Montpellier Inn & Sussex University (Northfield Bar & Falmer Deli).

BENEFITS OF ROUND: 1. Allows consumers to order safely and adhere to social distancing guidelines 2. 1 click payment as is easy to use, there is no card or cash handling 3. Presence across universities, pub groups, coffee shops and independent venues so there is a diverse demographic of users on our platform Ethan Martin CEO comments: “Over the past two years, we have focused on developing a platform to digitally transform hospitality in a way that is accessible to all. Whilst we fully understand the need for pub closures, we are excited for the plans to reopen and are particularly excited that ROUND will be part of the solution in navigating what ‘new normal’ will look like in terms of business and social life.”

Sign up today at www.round.app

Wi5 is the Industry-Leading Mobile Order And Pay Experience - No Apps Required Wi5 is the industry-leading mobile Order & Pay solution for hospitality, that allows customers to easily place orders and pay for them on their own devices for both Order to Table and Pickup.

We’ve invested heavily in our design and technology to ensure that we have the most intuitive, reliable and secure software solution on the market. There are now lots of solutions out there that offer some form of mobile ordering, but unless it’s a brilliant experience for both customers and staff, it will ultimately fail. Wi5 delivers a frictionless mobile experience without the need for a cumbersome login process or downloading any

apps, and we’ve made it as easy as possible at every step of the way.

For businesses, we’ve made it simple to set-up and manage, whilst still providing the advanced functionality vital in the long-term for enterprise and SMEs alike, such as POS-integration. We’re also proud to be the only mobile Order & Pay solution to maintain the highest levels of security through ISO/IEC 27001 certification, the globally recognised standard for information security, meaning both operators and customers can depend on us.

See the advert below for details.

24

CLH Digital

Issue 23

Technology and Software

Ways Technology Can Support The Hospitality Sector At This Difficult Time

By Demi Edmunds of TextAnywhere (www.textanywhere.com)

Prior to reopening, one of the key concerns within the industry was how to successfully implement and adhere to government guidelines, to ensure staff and customer safety. More recently however, many hospitality businesses are turning their attention to how to bridge the revenue gap during recovery. Afterall, capacity restrictions and specific role requirements for staff members, have had a significant impact on revenue.

In much the same way as technology helped the industry to reopen safely, it can also help businesses to enhance their recovery and better prepare for the future. Detailed below, are just three of the ways businesses can harness the power of technology during this difficult time.

FAST-TRACK PERSONALISATION

The economic impact of the coronavirus is undeniable. That said, during this continually uncertain time, businesses and organisations have responded to the pandemic in increasingly innovative ways, many of which have moved their business online. While this is also true of the hospitality industry with online ordering, and food and drink delivery services quickly becoming the norm, there is no substitute for in-person service. The hospitality industry is famed for its ability to provide customers an experience through it’s expertly delivered personal service, and of course high levels of revenue.

Many hospitality businesses have introduced or enhanced existing technologies to enable reduced contact between staff and customers, and apps are just one example. In fact, the same technology which your business has introduced to enable online check-in, manage restaurant table waiting lists and allow customers to order and pay on their mobile, can also be used to fast-track personalisation. Data such as purchase history and location can enable your business to provide relevant, personalised marketing offers to help drive customer loyalty. And with 73% of restaurant goers reporting that technology improves their dining experience, it’s fair to say that this type of technology is already well-received by consumers.

REDUCE NO-SHOWS We’re sure many of you are familiar with Tom Kerridge’s recent Instagram post, where he warned no-show customers, that their behaviour was putting people’s jobs in an increasingly unstable position and

forcing very uncomfortable and hard decisions about staffing levels.

Although this can be a large problem within the industry, there are relatively simple technologies which can help. For instance, an SMS reminder benefits from an open rate of 95% and allows you to include any lastminute information, such as enhanced safety measures or limitations to the menu. Likewise, the reminder can also help manage cancellations in advance, allowing the restaurant to offer the reservation to their waiting list. Alternatively, there are also systems such as ToK, which require customers to pay for their meals upfront. While this may not be appropriate for every business, some restaurants experienced a 14.7% reduction in no-shows within just 3 months of implementation.

BUILD BUSINESS AGILITY As the pandemic was unprecedented, many businesses did not have relevant business continuity or crisis communication plans in place to efficiently respond to the crisis. As such, this has been a learning curve for many. Businesses have had to diversify their offering to survive, or have had to scramble to communicate updates to customers and staff.

Consequently, it makes sense to use these learnings to build better business agility. By implementing the appropriate technology for crisis communications, or in the case of hoteliers, an OPEX, which allows hotels to reduce or transfer the number of licenses required, businesses can respond not just quicker, but better.

Despite significant disruption, the hospitality industry must continue to evolve. Businesses should always evaluate both existing and potential technology additions, on whether it will enable them to achieve their business goals. Although this process may seem daunting, technology will be essential to the long-term success of the hospitality industry postCovid19.

Create a Unique Brand Identity and Enhance your Customers’ Experience with Ambimedia Audiovisual Solutions Ambimedia Ltd are working hard to provide our clients with audiovisual solutions which allows them to adapt to future needs, in the wake of the recent pandemic. Our Certified Technology Specialists have been working closely with manufactures to develop our product range in order to meet changing demands.

ENHANCING OUTDOOR SPACES In order to enhance outdoor areas in pubs and restaurants, we have provided solutions including outdoor high brightness TV’s, outdoor sound systems and extended WIFI and CCTV networks. Whilst the future of how venues can operate indoors is unknown, enhancing outdoor spaces has been a key area of growth within the industry.

HAND SANITISERS WITH BUILT IN DIGITAL SIGNAGE DISPLAYS Most venues which you visit these days have hand sanitiser stations as you enter the

building and we have gone one step further, providing digital signage displays within the hand sanitiser stations allowing venues to provide information to customers in addition to product advertising.

DIGITAL MENUBOARDS & DIGITAL SIGNAGE Our award winning digital menuboard solution allows customers to instantly manage content on their screens from a PC or tablet. Choose from over 700 menuboard templates and over 3000 images or upload your own and publish the content to your TV’s.

Visit www.signmenu.co.uk and signup for a free account. We also have a full digital signage package available where we can manage the content on your behalf – please contact us for further information.

Ambimedia Ltd, 62 Oadby Drive, Hasland, Chesterfield, S41 0YF T: 01246 906958 E: info@ambimedia.org W: www.ambimedia.org

London Pub Supports Furloughed Team Members With Gift Card Revenue London pub The Culpeper has been able to support its furloughed team members by using revenue produced by its online gift vouchers, introduced at the start of lockdown.

Spitalfields pub The Culpeper, like many hospitality businesses, encouraged its customers to buy gift cards during lockdown, with all proceeds going into a new, Employee Emergency Care Fund created as soon as the pub closed its doors, to help team members facing financial hardship.

Using the free Toggle platform to create the gift cards, The Culpeper’s management were able get the cards onto their website quickly and start selling them to customers. Between mid-March and the end of July, they sold £6,000 worth of gift cards.

Initially, The Culpeper used the Care Fund to help a handful of team members who needed money to make rent or pay bills, before the government’s furlough scheme kicked in. After the pub reopened in July, the management analysed trading levels and realised that around half the team members employed before lockdown would be needed back in the business from August onwards. They therefore decided to help those employees not returning to the pub, by using the Care Fund to keep them on furlough for one more month.

Culpeper operations director Sandy Jarvis said: “We were forced to close our doors and send staff home without any kind of support from the government initially, so we knew straight away we’d need a pot of money to help them. Telling customers that their gift card purchase would help a member of staff during lockdown was really powerful and we’re grateful to our generous customers for helping us in this way.

“In August, The Culpeper had to contribute to the furlough scheme for the first time, which we wouldn’t have been able to do without the money in the Care Fund. So it’s enabled us to keep around 50 of our team members on furlough for the month, giving them a bit more time to find new work and make plans and to give us an extra month to see demand grow and bring more people back. It's heartbreaking to not be able to bring everyone back, but sadly that’s the reality of the

London hospitality sector at the moment.”

Andrew Whiteley, chief experience officer at Airship, the sector technology experts behind the Toggle gift card platform, said: “It’s been great to see how operators have used Toggle to benefit those in need during lockdown and beyond. Selling £6,000 of gift cards is an impressive achievement and shows the support The Culpeper has among its customers, which bodes well for the business’s recovery.”

Other Toggle initiatives include: Crust Bros offering gift cards to deliver free pizzas to London hospitals, Yummy Pubs helping to feed vulnerable or isolating people and Derbyshire pub The Devonshire Arms selling cards to buy a night’s stay for an NHS worker.

The Toggle platform allows hospitality businesses to quickly set up bespoke, branded gift cards. The service will remain free to operators until 1 September, and after that, charges are only applied after £1,000 worth of gift card sales. Users can be up and running in around 30 minutes, making gift cards available for customers to buy online and send to recipients by email.

Hundreds of pubs, bars and restaurants are live on Toggle, including: JW Lees, Yummy Pubs, Boston Tea Party, Brewhouse & Kitchen, Côte, Turtle Bay, San Carlo, Bob Bob Ricard, Park Chinois, Revolución de Cuba, Hickory’s Smokehouse, Ego Restaurants & Rosa's Thai Café Visit www.usetoggle.com for details.

Technology and Software

Issue 23

CLH Digital

Game-Changing Tech Helps Hospitality Venues Navigate Data Minefield Magenta Data’s Affixr solution takes the pressure off licensees, hoteliers, restaurateurs and caterers burdened with data control responsibilities.

work with a simple click • Collect feedback • Set up guests lists and RSVPs • Send thank you/invitation emails Affixr allows data to be stored safely, GDPR compliantly and securely yet be easily retrievable.

Affixr uses technology in a new, cutting-edge solution with smart QR codes for easy-to-use and GDPR compliant data capture – without the need for an app or website.

Its unique system eliminates the need for an app and no hardware, such as a tablet, or website is required although QR codes can be pointed towards existing websites if required.

Game-changing COVID-19 ‘track and trace’ technology has been launched for the food and drink industry.

Customers simply point their mobile phone’s camera to scan bespoke QR codes which takes them to a screen to easily and quickly leave their contact details.

Director Daniel Jain said: “This is game changing technology which allows both customers and licensees get to grips with the new regulations in the easiest way possible.”

With a bespoke dashboard, Affixr also allow licensees and caterers to:

Prices start at £9.99 with our introduction plan absolutely free. Contact director Daniel Jain at daniel.jain@ magentadata.com, and 0208 996 5182. Or visit www.affixr.com to get started today.

• Compliantly record data of all customers, not just the bill payer • Share menus – reducing the need for paper versions • Let customers join a wi-fi net-

Caterbook - A Software Solution for the 2020s

This Spring - Hotels, B&B’s and pubs like yours are migrating to Caterbook - a modern, cloud-based hotel software solution for the 2020’s.

• Batch create, print and email invoices in a single click.

• Post food & drink items from your EPOS to the room bill for settlement on checkout.

• Use yield management to automate pricing changes based on availability.

• Create and schedule custom guest email and SMS messages.

• Role based access control restricts staff privileges to features based on their needs.

• Responsive, customisable booking engine embeds on your

own website.

• Configure and assign unique per-rate deposit and cancellation policies.

• Housekeeping report shows cleaning type, linen and towels required each day.

• Industry standard reporting metrics of RevPAR, ADR etc.

• Take payments in real time using our built in PCI compliant payment gateway.

• Channel Manager links to booking.com and Expedia.

Call 01840 298298 or visit www.caterbook.com and sign up for a free 14 day trial account.

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

A smart solution for easy COVID-19 track and trace data Easy to use for you and your customers in pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes, food outlets and hotels.

Customers scan QR codes with phones to leave contact details, view menus, join wi-fi, collect feedback and more:

• GDPR compliant • No hardware or app needed • Zero set-up costs • Record all customers details, not just the bill payer • Quick data access • Track covers in real time

Prices start at £9.99/month with a

FREE introduction plan Contact us now to set up your Affixr system today.

Contact us to get started today by visiting our website

www.affixr.com

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

Hygiene and Infection Control

EAIS - The Ideal Solution T

EAIS are your one stop solution for all of your storage and handling needs. Our vastly experienced and award winning team are on hand to support our distributors and to help them overcome any challenge that they may face.

We offer 16 different types of racking to choose from including chrome, nylon, stainless steel solid, perforated & wire as well as lift-out systems. All of these are available in wide range of sizes which will help to maximise every area of a busy commercial kitchen. Follow this up with a huge range of trolleys and transportation system you will find all that’s needed to support all types of commercial catering applications. We are proud of our ability to hold vast stocks of racking and

trolleys, allowing us to accommodate urgent next day delivery requests if required.

In addition to standard products one of our strengths is our flexibility. Our on-site in-house manufacturing facility allows us to offer bespoke items to our customers. Therefore if our standard product doesn’t quite tick your box our engineers and designers will work closely with a client to ensure the correct bespoke solution is offered.

As well as supply only we can also offer an efficient and economical installation service with our highly experienced and qualified teams of fitters.

For more information please visit our website – www.eais.co

ATP Leads The Way For Hotel Cleaning Effectiveness

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

East Anglian Installation Systems Ltd EAIS Ltd @EAISUK industries to monitor cleaning effectiveness. ATP moniAs hoteliers navigate the swings between lockdowns tors provide, in as little as 10 seconds, quantitation of and reduced capacity, and reopening floors, preparing the overall ability of cleaning chemicals and crews using rooms, and accepting more guests, they will need to them to clean a surface. take extra steps to ensure the safety of those guests and the employees who serve them.

One study estimates that 33 percent of the ATP picked up by monitoring is microKey to that safety will be ensuring bial in origin. Surfaces will vary that sleeping rooms, conference according to sources of contamiareas, lobbies and lounges are nation and frequency of contact cleaned and sanitized. While sanitisbut reducing ATP levels often is ing surfaces is just a small part of enough to reduce infection. combatting the prevalence of Hygiena’s EnSURE™ Touch ATP COVID-19, hotels need to prove to Monitoring System uses the guests that their facility is safe place UltraSnap™ test to collect samto stay. ples from virtually any surface, Too often, monitoring of cleaning delivering actionable, reliable effectiveness has relied on visual results in seconds. Its portability inspection. This, of course, cannot and ability to upload to SureTrend detect unseen microbes. Cleaning cloud-based software lets you and sanitation monitoring technolotrack and trace progress, without gy that uses adenosine triphosphate leaving the room!

(ATP), the energy-releasing moleSee the advert on the facing cule found in every living cell, has page for details. been adopted by hotels and other

TTHE H E IDEAL SOLUTION SOLUTIO N East Installation Systems Systems East Anglian Anglian Installation

Tel: 01553 765205 Fax: 01553 768464 www.eais.co Tel:

rer and Supplier of products products supplied both to the Foodservice EAIS is a leading Manufactu Manufacturer re looking for only meet the customer’s demands, but their expectations as well. Whether you a are storage shelving, rracking acking systems and trolleys, trolleys, or healthcare healthcare shelving and medical ttrolleys rolleys or food storage bespoke design p roducts. EAIS will be your Ideal Solution.

Solution. even bespoke products.

East Anglian Installation Systems Ltd

EAIS Ltd @EAISUK

East Anglian Installation Systems Ltd

e.a.i.s_uk

East Anglian Installation Systems Hardwick Norfolk m, sOldmedow Oldm O Road, Ha rdwick Industrial Estate, King’s LLynn, ynn, No r folk PE30 4JJ

Keep guests and people safe, one surface at a time ouch - The Most Innovative EnSURE™ T Touch ATP Verification ATP Cleaning C Verification Ver er System Helps Y You: ou: Track T rack cleaning ef efforts forts and verify effective. they have been ef fective.

eas in your facility Verify areas V erify high-touch high-to ar have been cleaned pr operly. properly.

effectiveness.

V erify if hand-washing h hand-w d effectiveness.

Verify

Verify areas, V erify common commo ar eas, meeting rrooms, ooms, and of fices have been cleaned pr operly. offices properly.

hygiena.com/hospitality

Hygiene and Infection Control New Insect Prevention Air Curtain Astreea - The Pedal Hand Sanitiser Issue 23

JS Air Curtains is launching a new air curtain, the Fly, specially designed for insect control. It is a hygienic alternative to plastic strip or chain link curtains.

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entire entrance with a barrier of air, thus preventing any gaps that might allow insects to enter. Adjustable aluminium aerofoil shaped air blades can direct the airstream to create a tight seal across an entrance.

As well as insects, the air curtain can also discourage rodents from entering an entrance. Research has shown that rats, mice and other furry intruders do not like the sensation an air curtain creates on their fur and will avoid passing under a fast moving barrier of air. Dust, pollen and airborne pollutants are also minimised, to help maintain a safe and healthy indoor environment.

By creating a high-velocity air barrier across a doorway, flying insects are prevented from entering food preparation areas in butcher shops, supermarkets, hospitals and nursing homes, as well as food production premises. This allows doors to remain open, reducing the risk of surface contamination through staff or customers needing to touch doors or handles.

Suitable for installation directly above a doorway, it is offered in five lengths from one to three metres and in four different power outputs to protect doorways up to four metres high. Fly air curtains should always by fitted to completely cover the

JS Air Curtains provide expert advice and supply an extensive range of air curtains for all commercial and industrial applications. You can find out more at www.jsaircurtains.com.

Innovative Managed Tech Solutions for Covid-19 Launched ciently. The remotely operated system uses ultraviolet to decontaminate both the air and surfaces in a room, killing 99.9999% of pathogens.

An entire room is cleaned in minutes and the network-connected system provides certification. Nanoclave cabinets use the same UV technology to clean smaller items such as menus, remote controls, equipment or uniforms.

To ensure social distancing is maintained within the workplace, Contrac IT has also worked with partners to bring together a range of wearable tech. Available as a lanyard, wristband or vest, the technology alerts the wearer when they get too close to a colleague.

A third piece of technology can monitor people as they enter premises with thermal imaging cameras, detecting anyone experiencing a higher than normal temperature.

A first-of-its-kind suite of smart tech solutions has been launched by Contrac IT to help businesses in the hospitality industry protect their workforce and customers in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic.

All the devices, which are GDPR compliant, can be monitored by Contrac IT to enable corrective action.

Utilising technology most often seen in acute healthcare settings, the THOR UVC® terminal cleaning device kills viruses quickly and effi-

For more information: www.contracfm.com/covid-response / info@contracfm.com

As the 4th July reopening date has been confirmed, businesses need to plan and implement strategies to keep their visitors and employees safe. Where cleanliness and efficiency are key for the hospitality trade, a simple and safe way of sanitising is the way forward.

Introducing the Astreea® pedal hand sanitiser.

Touchless, fully mechanical and made entirely from medical stainless steel, this revolutionary dispenser requires no assembly, electrical outlet, or maintenance. It’s designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it ideal for any public space. The Astreea® dispenser is different from typical plastic wall or post-mounted products. Its seamless steel body and mechanical operation make it almost indestructible. Units are maintenance-free, arrive fully assembled, and use any hand sanitiser product, making them an ideal solution during these uncertain times.

Astreea®'s many virtues have made it an easy choice for businesses as lockdown eases.

• 12 month warranty • Anti-theft • Hands-free • Genuine usage increase where installed • Medical stainless-steel construction • Developed in an aerospace factory • No electrical outlet needed • Visitors see you are proactively making site safe • Highest quality materials • Universal use, can be filled with any hand sanitiser To learn more, visit www.astreeauk.co.uk or contact info@astreeauk.co.uk.

Innovative Managed Tech Solutions to Help Hospitality Businesses Protect Employees and Customers from Covid-19

Hand sanitising just got simpler and safer with the Astreea® touchless pedal operated stylish sanitiser dispenser.

• Revolutionary dispenser • 12 month warranty • Anti-theft • Hands-free • Genuine usage increase • Suitable Indoor or Outdoor • Medical stainless-steel • No electrical outlet needed • Use any hand sanitiser

astreeauk.co.uk | info@astreeauk.co.uk

• THOR UVC® terminal cleaning device safely kills viruses in the air and on surfaces in minutes • Nanoclave cabinets use UV lights to disinfect items such as menus, remotes and shared equipment • Wearable tech alerts colleagues if they breach social distancing – available as lanyards, wristbands and hi-vis vests • Thermal imaging camera detects higher than normal temperatures

www.contracfm.com/covid-response For more information contact: info@contracfm.com

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

Hygiene and Infection Control

InnuScience Urges Hospitality Sector To Practice ‘Justified Disinfection’ Post-Lockdown To Keep Businesses Clean InnuScience, a global leader in commercial cleaning systems based on biotechnology, is urging the hospitality sector to adopt high levels of hygiene with an emphasis on effective cleaning using high performing detergents rather than an over reliance of disinfectants that do not clean and risk negative impact for the environment.

The biotech company with a vision to change the way the world cleans is advocating a cleaning regime called ‘Justified Disinfection’ which encourages disinfecting only where and when it is useful and relevant and which it has championed for over 20 years.

Steve Teasdale, the Co-Founder and Vice President of Scientific Affairs at InnuScience, explained: “Justified Disinfection is the principle that effective cleaning with high quality detergents across all non-critical touch surfaces is as effective, if not more so, than the widespread systematic or abusive use of disinfectants.

“There is also a need to continue to look after our environment. This has been at our heart since we began”.

InnuScience warns that regular and widespread use of disinfectants does not provide a clean surface as disinfectants do not clean per se promoting the development of bacteria, and recommends they should only be used on critical “high frequency” touch surfaces such as door handles, taps, toilet flush handles, keyboards, lift switches and handrails as these are surfaces that are most likely

to cause transmission of bugs.

It suggests effective regular cleaning is most appropriate for all non-critical surfaces such as floors, urinals, ceilings and most walls as these are areas that are not typically touched and do not represent a real biological risk to health. Scientific reporting demonstrates that the coronavirus is effectively rendered inactive and noninfective when detergents are used.

InnuScience, which has a UK base in Milton Keynes, Bucks, sets out its strategy in a 24-page document entitled: “RESTART program: Guide for hospitality reopening post lockdown”. It advises the hospitality sector how to apply its ‘Justified Disinfection’ methods in settings such as reception areas and lobbies, guest rooms, communal areas, spas and wellness areas.

Planet conscious InnuScience also warns of the potential disadvantages and risks associated with large-scale disinfection such as creating a false sense of security with some people believing a disinfected surface becomes safe from bacteria triggering bad habits that could pose a risk to health.

Other factors that concern InnuScience are an increase in pollution as hundreds of thousands of tonnes of disinfectants end up as environmental waste while overuse of disinfectants has been linked to an increase in the number of allergies as well as skin complaints, eczema, asthma and eye irritations.

InnuScience’s portfolio of products includes - but is not limited to - cleaners and degreasers, industrial cleaners, warewash and laundry, and personal care products.

Backed by nearly 30 years of research, InnuScience has a reputation for being a disruptor in the professional cleaning market bringing biotechnology to the hospitality, facilities management, building and care sectors.

Visit www.innuscience.com for details

WaterCare Proudly Introduce the New iX Water Range

Temperature Testing - The New Normal The pandemic has taught us that information is power.

When it comes to testing it has rarely been out of the news. Manufacturers that continued to work during the lockdown on essential goods and services often led the way in adopting testing measures – on their staff.

Temperature testing is recognised as a powerful tool in the employer’s toolbox to assist in preventing the virus potentially wreaking havoc and worse with the workforce and the business. Any person in a manufacturing environment that tests positive for the virus is a personal tragedy but also will probably result in all colleagues in their workspace self-isolating.

One MD of such a company claimed on a recent webinar that testing staff temperature at the beginning and end of every shift had been helpful to their business, and staff were very comforted by it. To know your work colleagues don’t have one of the major symptoms is comforting.

Obviously, an instant cheap test for the virus is not yet with us but temperature testing of staff and potentially customers is now being adopted by many large employers too as workers return from “Lockdown”.

At a basic level it is easily put in place; getting staff permission to take their temperature has rarely been refused but is essential. If using a handheld device like a “gun” the operator has to wear full PPE. Then the need for clear procedures as to what happens if someone is over temperature – absolutely essential for all involved. The “gun” and the member of staff in PPE is somewhat unfriendly and many companies have moved up a level in their approach to eliminate both.

New equipment allows employees to walk up

to a screen – which can welcome them and give them any message for the day. Without contact, the screen will identify the person, take their temperature and create a record for management. It will sound an alarm if the person is outside the set temperatures and can remind employees if they need to wear a mask and will allow for masks in the facial recognition. Ford, Amazon, Walmart and others are now running such equipment often linked to their time and attendance software.

Others have introduced such a contactless temperature checking system for customers too. With both face or wrist temperature measuring options temperature testing customers can be reassuring for them as well as for your staff.

Some hospitality organisations like Handpicked Hotels are letting their customers know that they will get a temperature check on check-in.

Others are advertising the fact their staff are tested. Temperature testing will not in itself defeat the virus, but it is reassuring for all.

The equipment to do so is now available in the UK and many technology companies now offer these services. One such IT support company is TIO, whose Director, Peter Lowe, states that professional temperature testing equipment that is several levels up from the unfriendly “gun” is a new service his company provides with managed installation and user training. “The level of integration is determined by the customer as some prefer a simple plug and play device that can be moved around the business, and it’s fast becoming the new normal for some of our customers.”

Information and details of the different systems with indicative costs can viewed on our website. www.tionet.co.uk

The iXWater range now has a newly designed head for ease of maintenance. The iXWater head has quick shut off, flush valve and an optional digital flow meter. The head also has a variable bypass to allow some untreated water to be dialled back into the water supply which is essential for better coffee extraction and taste. iX Water filters are the first truly eco-friendly, 100% recyclable cartridge filter in the market, offering Insert Refill Technology to provide a genuinely sustainable and cost-effective alternative to mainstream cartridge water WaterCare are passionate about providing cost effective, eco-friendly filters. For use on coffee machines, water coolers, ice machines, vending machines, and catering applications. The solutions to water treatment. Their NEW, improved iX range of water iX range offers a comprehensive product in a cost effective, efficient, flexible, and stylish package. filters, along with our Replace & Return Program provide an easy, WaterCare are extremely aware of the negative impact that waste plastic has on the environment, plus with the responsible, and cost-effective alternative to current one-way systems. uncertainty of where the hospitality industry will be in the next 12 months following Covid-19 pandemic, Discover the full iX Water range at www.watercare.co.uk/ecoWaterCare have created a product and program designed to not only reduce your costs significantly, but also friendly-water-filters/ or call 01279 780250 to speak to a sales reprerecycle 100% of the expired media inserts and return these back into the marketplace – keeping costs & waste sentative. down, whilst creating measurable control.

Commercial body temperature testing equipment for use in hotels, bars and restaurants.

Fully installed on premises, with staff training provided Face Recognition Access Control Terminal with Digital Detection Module

Temperature Measurement with Face Recognition and Access Control Terminal

Standing Temperature Measurement Terminal

www.tionet.co.uk contactus@tio.uk.com 020 3301 2729

Handheld Thermal Imager

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

Hygiene and Infection Control

Temp.com - Protect Your Staff and Customers

As part of the strategy to reopen after the lock down, temperature monitoring of staff is encouraged and highly recommended for customers. It should of course be implemented along with other safety measures recommended by the government.

There are many temperature monitoring products now available on the market. However, in the absence of official guidance, it is difficult to establish which solutions are fit for purpose. Handheld infrared thermometers are notoriously inaccurate and high-end thermal imaging systems can cost a small fortune. temp.cam offers a practical and effective solution with functionality ideal for both staff and visitors. The product is completely stand-alone, contactless, gives quick readings, requires no human intervention at point of test and records the data via secure UK servers.

The temperature monitoring with a temp.cam works as follows:

• Reduce costs • Improve operational efficiencies • Raise bottom line profitability • Improve Quality

Specially formulated Eco-

Flow and temperature

electronic smart box

friendly beer line cleaner

sensor based dispense

Decontamination

which keeps beer

that uses active oxygen to

monitoring system,

Kills 99.995% of Bacteria,

lines cleaner for longer.

clean safely - replaces

offering the very best in

Viruses, Fungi and Spores

reducing cleans from 52

caustic cleaners.

terms of quality, reliability

100% biodegradable.

High-performance

to around 13 per year.

Easy, Effective

and value.

Tel: 0800 170 1564 | Email: enquiries@lineclenze.com

www.lineclenze.com

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

- A member of staff or guest stands in front of the tablet

- Temperature check is done in an instant and reading displayed on the screen - If a high temperature above 37.5 C is detected, the tablet gives an audible alert and sends an email alert with details of the check - The data is available to view remotely online through a dashboard. You do not need a staff member standing around to watch the temperature checks.

- You can have the system configured to log staff temperature checks with names or employee numbers - All other public checks are recorded and displayed on the dashboard with a date time tag / site name / device name and the corresponding temperature readings. temp.cam is being used by the NHS, TFL, National Grid, Veolia, UK Power Networks, Kautex Textron, National transport operators and numerous hospitality sector businesses in the UK and Europe.

All their systems are provided with a 12month warranty and ongoing technical support.

Make Your Premises Safe for the Environment, Staff and Customers LineClenze have the ultimate solution to make any hospitality and licensed on trade environment safe for staff, customers and at the same time protecting the environment.

Our innovative decontamination process involves distributing superfine droplets of disinfectant into the atmosphere, to kill the bacteria and viruses in the air and, when the droplets land on any surface, it also kills the bacteria and viruses on that surface.

DEW Disinfects only active ingredient is the same as our body produces when fighting an infection, so it presents no danger to humans, animals, plants or the environment.

There is no need to evacuate an area being fogged, or to wear PPE. DEW Disinfect is highly effective at killing bacteria, viruses and fungi, without damaging the environment and it is entirely human-compatible, it can be used almost

everywhere where disinfection or sanitisation is required.

DEW Disinfect leaves NO residue, in fact, it destroys biofilm and hormonal residues, then simply evaporates.

We offer a number of different dispense mechanisms to enable DEW Disinfect to be used throughout your venue. These include:

• Fogging Machine for large areas • Room Mister • Vehicle Mister • Handheld Spray for localised use • Wall dispensers and small spray bottles for hand sanitisation For further details visit www.lineclenze.com

Hygiene and Infection Control

Clean Air for a Safe Environment

During these uncertain times, we must be equipped with the right tools to fight contaminates. Axair offer state of the art air cleaning systems for any indoor environment to help improve air quality and prevent the spread of disease.

Wellisair is a patented air disinfectant air purifier with the innovative technology to disinfect, purify and clean the air and surfaces with nature’s mechanisms removing 99.9% of all hazardous elements.

How Does Wellisar Work?

Wellisair uses technology that generates and expands hydroxyl radicals (OH) that by oxidation eliminates virus, bacteria, allergens, moulds, odours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) up to 99.9%.

OH is a powerful purifying substance that is generated naturally by sunlight, ozone, and moisture in the air, and it harmlessly disappears along with other air pollutants. Once the oxidation process has started, the effect called “respiratory explosion” occurs, which consists of a series of cascade reactions that produce more hydroxyl radicals, this accelerates the process of eliminating viruses and bacteria. Wellisair produces the same chain effect that efficiently purifies and disinfects the air and surfaces of an area up to 60m2.

The Wellisair is available to buy online at www.axaironline.co.uk.

To find out more about our clean air solutions please email sales@axairfans.co.uk or call 01782 349 430.

Sanozone. The Easy Way To Sanitise Your Indoor Spaces SANOZONE, which delivers the most efficient sanitisation performance in indoor spaces, is now available from Barbel.

Manufactured by Vitaeco S.r.l., the world famous manufacturer of the highly regarded HotmixPro thermal blender range, SANOZONE sanitises rooms of many sizes in enclosed HRC sites, hotels, restaurants, bars, conference rooms and similar establishments where totally reliable and regular sanitisation is needed.

SANOZONE is particularly suitable for hospitals and care home areas, where absolute cleanliness is mandatory, and in areas where it is difficult or impossible to deliver effective sanitisation throughout.

The SANOZONE range of

machines use Ozone (O3) technology, a gaseous form of Ozone that fills the room, reaching every corner of the space, santising surfaces and critical hard-to-reach corners homogenously, consistently and safely.

The SANOZONE range of sanitisation machines are all equipped with the latest technology and customised disinfection programmes to suit your specific requirements.

The running costs are considerably lower than any traditional disinfecting programmes and most importantly, there is no manual labour involved.

For further information about the SANOZONE range, please contact Barbel on 01629 705110, email info@barbel.net, or visit the website at www.barbel.net

Issue 23

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CLH Digital

Issue 23

Hygiene and Infection Control

Monika Automates Hygiene Tasks For Staff and Customer Safety Automation is an increasingly attractive option in today’s commercial kitchen. Although we are all conditioned to wash our hands, thoroughly and frequently, and improve hygiene in general, it can be hard to uphold such measures in a busy environment where pressures are greater than ever.

line manager to ensure completion to a sufficient standard if required.

UK Director of Sales Rag Hulait commented: “You can use MonikaPrime to drive and double check compliance with food safety and hygiene requirements set within your business. And if you add automated equipment temperature monitoring, you remove the need for staff to move around taking manual fridge and freezer temperature readings, touching surfaces that may be contaminated.”

This is where an automated food safety system can help. MonikaPrime can be programmed to give audible as well as visual reminders when a hygiene/infection control task is due – for example to clean down equipment, change cloths and even to alert staff to wash their hands or take customer contact details. By choosing to set an alarming and flashing ‘beacon’, staff can be in no doubt that a task is due and are more likely to complete it on time.

The MonikaPrime system also comes with easy to use software that gives you visibility of staff and equipment performance, so you can see areas for improvement on the way to confident compliance.

For more information please contact Monika on 01664 420 022, rag@monika.com or visit www.monika.com.

Repeat or one-off checks can be programmed, with verification by a

HI-MACS , the Ideal Material for the Hospitality Sector ®

GERMS DON’T STAND A CHANCE

In tests carried out in accordance with the U.S. EPA OCSPP 810.2000 (2018) and 810.2200 (2018) product performance guidelines, it was demonstrated that HIMACS® can be decontaminated in just 30 seconds after contact with the HIV virus, using a solution of bleach or isopropyl alcohol*.

The current health emergency reminds us how important hygiene and cleanliness are. And naturally in public areas these are essential characteristics that require the use of only the best materials. HI-MACS®, thanks to its resistance to dirt, viruses, bacteria and numerous chemical agents - internationally certified - is the perfect material for wall coverings, furniture, work surfaces and other applications, where hygiene really counts.

In addition, tests conducted on HI-MACS® Alpine White S028, conforming to EN 16615, have demonstrated an excellent resistance to the staphylococcus aureus bacteria. In addition to this, Alpine White S028 demonstrated a good resistance to the cleaning products which contain the disinfectants published in the “disinfection capacity” – see our brochure for more details.

With a 15 year guarantee when installed by a member of our Quality Club, HIMACS® offers excellent price to performance ratio.

HI-MACS® by LG Hausys T: +44 (0)1732 897820 W: www.himacs.eu

Spotless meets seamless.

An almost seamless appearance and a non-porous surface make for a surface that‘s easy to clean and meets the highest standards for hygiene. The seemless property of HI-MACS® means there is nowhere for germs and dirt to linger.

Perfect for installation in restaurants and pubs.

OUTSTANDING SANITARY PROPERTIES

Safe Distance Signage KINEPROTECT Ensures Safe Social Spaces from Amenity Warehouse Designed specifically for Hospitality, Amenity Warehouse have launched their ‘Safe Distance’ signage range.

Aside from floor stickers for receptions, the most popular items for hotels appear to be Elevator Signs (£8.74 for a pack of 10) that advise customers not to share lifts. These can be paired with ‘stairs this way’ signage to guide guests towards the stairs when needed.

By focussing on a safe distance message, they won’t go out of date - even if government distancing rules change again!

With a choice of SIX colour options now available on the shelf, AW don’t believe that social-distancing signage needs to look so industrial.

Their extensive range addresses the operational needs of hotels, restaurants and bars – including queue management, guest movement and customer reassurance.

Restaurants and Bars can use their Table/Seat Not In Use range (£3.58 for a pack of 10 stickers or £4.32 for a pack of 10 tent cards) to manage their seating area, without resorting to the dreaded yellow and black tape!

As the hospitality sector opens up to visitors and customers following lockdown many organisations are installing protective screens and panels to eliminate any risk of virus transmission.

Shower brand, Kinedo, a highly regarded European manufacturer of cubicles and enclosures and sister company of leading plumbing brand, Saniflo, has re-purposed its French factory to design and launch a new range of high quality glass protection screens and panels to ensure the safety and welfare of staff and the public.

Using existing stocks of scratchresistant glass the new Kineprotect range includes table mounted options in 75cm and 100 cm heights and a choice of five widths from 80 to 160cm. A useful countertop option features a wider space at the bottom to pass drinks and consumables. A choice of highly portable, floor mounted options includes tall, self-supporting panels available in three widths – 80,100 & 120cm and four heights – 140, 160. 180 and 200cm. Free-standing or drillable feet can be specified along with a range of side panels.

Manufactured from 6mm tempered glass the screens and panels will not warp or discolour and are easy to clean and maintain. Highly durable, the Kineprotect range provides an upmarket, professional solution that won’t diminish the aesthetics of the hospitality environment. All items are available for quick delivery and can be ordered online https://kinedo.co.uk/kineprotect-glass.

www.amenitywarehouse.com

Staysafe Visor - Showing the New Face of Hospitality and agility to switch their production to essential PPE. Staysafe Visor was created as a specialist subsidiary operation and across one weekend in April, its team created the necessary tools to manufacture high volumes of protective visors. The first week of production delivered 65,000 units (a number that has since risen to more than 250,000), the bulk of which went straight to frontline healthcare workers.

Managing Director Clive Hawkins explains: “Some fantastic efforts were made by small producers in the early days of the crisis, but a clear shortage of PPE meant there was an urgent need for the situation to be addressed by specialists in large-scale manufacture.

We hold high stock levels of raw materials, have a strong supply chain, and by making the products directly available to organisations and end-users, were able to ensure swift delivery and keep costs as low as possible.”

The return to work in the post-lockdown hospitality sector presents many challenges. Staysafe Visor addresses one very important issue...

When the true scale of the unfolding crisis of COVID-19 became apparent to leading UK plastics manufacturer 1st Packaging Limited, the company’s response was swift. Specialising in the large scale production of die-cut P.E.T for products in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and medical sectors since 2002, they not only recognised the urgency with which PPE would be required across the country, but crucially, had the capacity

Initial orders for Staysafe Visor came almost exclusively from the health and care sectors, but as the extent to which the pandemic would impact every aspect of working life in the UK was laid bare, the company received a much wider range of enquiries. The value of visors as a primary element of PPE is well illustrated by the Faculty for General Dental Practice who state that ‘A full-face visor will reduce the amount of exposed skin on the face and neck that may be subject to splash or droplet contamination.’

Clive Hawkins continues:

“As lockdown is relaxed to allow economic activity to resume, employees in a broad range of service industries where social distancing is not always possible, require protection. In the hospitality sector particularly, where masks are not always appropriate, a visor can preserve the human touch and still offer a high level of protection to the wearer and customer. We produce a range of BSI CE-certified visors which protect against splashes, droplets and sprays, can be easily cleaned and are comfortable to wear. The visor doesn’t just protect - it helps to inspire customer confidence and that’s going to be a key factor in helping business to regain momentum.”

As bar, kitchen, security, waiting and other support staff prepare to resume service in a post-lockdown hospitality industry, Staysafe Visor offers available and affordable protection that offers the following features: • Full face protection from liquid droplets, sprays and splashes (visor is 314mm wide x 240mm long) • CE-certification • Optical-grade clear recyclable 300micron P.E.T for clarity • Soft medical-grade foam headband • Adjustable non-elasticated strap to prevent slippage • Printed white label area to identify user • Anti-fog • Suitable for use with prescription glasses and face masks • Disposable and recyclable Visit https://staysafevisor.co.uk for details and to order or see the advert on page 26.

Hygiene and Infection Control

Issue 23

CLH Digital

A Clean Start - Integrated Sanitising Solutions

With over 50 years of experience, ICE is the UK’s largest independent provider of industrial cleaning machines.

We bring a simple, reliable brand and offering to the industry with straightforward equipment purchase, rental, service and approved-used solutions designed to meet the needs and demands of every customer, however small or extensive their budget.

We have a huge range of scrubber dryer and sweeping machines suitable for all types of environments, from

standard robust equipment or high-end machines equipped with the latest technology, to robotic floor cleaning machines.

Our ICE Co-Botics line is the industry’s first comprehensive range of robotic cleaning machines. We believe these innovations will help shape the way cleaning operations and functions are carried out in the future, but in a collaborative and cohesive way.

The equipment has been designed to integrate into cleaning team operations, picking up the manual and repetitive tasks, which will then allow operators to focus on hygiene and sanitising activities to promote cleaner and safer environments. It’s not about replacing people it’s about embracing technology to deliver higher cleaning standards, infection control and ‘proof of clean’.

Other innovations include our new sanitising and fogging equipment, which effectively sanitise and disinfect floors and the surrounding air, ensuring a safe and hygienic working environment.

Contact us: 0800 389 3869 enquiries@ice-clean.com www.ice-clean.com

Northumberland Firm Helping to Clear the Path Out of Covid-19 Lockdown with Environmentally-Friendly Fogging Range Hospitality businesses will be able to offer customers an extra layer of reassurance thanks to Northumberland company Clear Fog’s newly launched collection of environmentally-friendly fogging systems.

Promising to eliminate Covid-19 from indoor environments of all sizes, the Clear Fog range allows businesses and homeowners to take charge of their own fogging procedures by equipping them directly with industry standard kit.

As business owners across the UK commit to making their premises Covid-19 secure and give confidence to customers, staff and visitors that their surroundings are as protected as they can be, Clear Fog offers an environmentally safe and cost effective option.

Used extensively in the food industry, this environmentally-friendly solution is harmless to humans but deadly to bacteria and viruses, making it an invaluable addition to hygiene protocols in a post-lockdown world.

Clear Fog offers customers three options: The industrial Dry Fogging trolley unit can fog up to 500 cubic metres in just 30 minutes – perfect for large venue spaces, sports halls, conference centres etc; The handheld CF35 is used in conjunction with regular cleaning and applies the anti-bacteria/anti-viral CFLD to all spaces and surfaces including hard-toreach places. This is the popular choice for pubs, bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels, B&Bs and Holiday lets.

The mini-diffuser is ideal for personal protection throughout the day, whether at work, at home or out and about.

Refillable and rechargeable, the pocketsized unit allows the user to apply a fogging layer of CFLD to anything they are using – steering wheels, chip and pin machines, door handles, telephone receivers, cash, pens, cutlery etc.

For more information on Clear Fog, visit www.clearfog.co.uk

Take charge of your disinfectant fogging and offer customers an extra layer of confidence As hospitality businesses commit to making premises Covid-19 secure, Clear Fog provides an environmentally safe and cost-effective solution - eliminating Covid-19 from indoor settings of all sizes.

From large-scale

equipment to handheld units, order now at

www.clearfog.co.uk or email

info@clearfog.co.uk

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

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Outdoor Spaces

Issue 23

Maximise Your Outdoor Space, Whatever The Weather, With Our Innovative Range Of All Year Round Canopies!

At Inside2Outside Ltd we are experts in the design, fabrication and installation of eye-catching tensile canopies that transform your outdoor dining facilities.

Our 30 years of experience means we can approach space differently and innovatively and our excellent customer service ensures you get exactly what you need. A full project management service is offered. Check out our website for our full range at www.inside2outside.co.uk.

There are many canopy companies in the UK but few compare to us in terms of longevity and versatility, standards of engineering, visual appeal and customer service.

Our best-selling Qube canopy roofs are made from advanced tensile membrane fabric which is translucent yet provides shade and blocks all harmful UV rays. Our frames are made from aluminium, which is strong, longlasting and will not rust. These are available in a range of colours. Further details are on our website www.inside2outside.co.uk We recently launched a range of thin film solar canopies and solar shade structures. These solar canopies provide an opportunity to create extra, permanent, all-weather spaces for your activities whilst reducing your electricity bills and your carbon emissions. By signing up to the government's electricity Feed-in-Tariff you can even generate an income from your outdoor

We design and manufacture freestanding canopies that are perfect for covered outdoor dining and event areas for restaurants, hotels, pubs and clubs.

Control the Summer surge at your restaurant, hotel or bar, and spread the profits throughout the year with a covered dining area that can be used all year round, whatever the weather.

structure.

With our unrivalled experience and product range you can be sure of finding an all-weather shading solution to suit your needs.

We recently helped Fairlawns Hotel & Spa in Birmingham create a new outdoor entertaining area by project managing the installation of a large retractable terrace area.

“The installation has really exceeded our expectations.

The retractable canopy covers a huge area and has allowed us to create a great link between the buildings and our gardens. We wanted to have flexibility with cover retraction and through constructing in 3 modules we have achieved just that. We are really enjoying the area and it provides a great point of difference for wedding and party guests, especially with the demand for outside weddings but unreliable of the weather” Hotel Owner.

Contact us on 01480 498297 to arrange for one of our sales advisers to pop out and have a chat about your shading requirements. We can offer tensile canopies, retractable terrace covers, outdoor dining structures, garden patio covers and covered walkways.

Visit www.inside2outside.co.uk or call 01480 498297

Increase Your Business Capacity with A Temporary or Semi-Permanent Structure

Phone: 01480 498297 Email: info@inside2outside.co.uk Web: www.inside2outside.co.uk

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

Creating extra space within a garden centre can often be a long drawn-out process but you can achieve this in just a few days by installing one of our temporary or semi-permanent structures.

Our extensions fix seamlessly onto your current building or alternatively they can be used as a standalone structure.

The structures can be fully operational and ready to accommodate your customers in just a few days with little to no disturbance to the day to day running of your business.

One of the major benefits of using their Space Building System is it negates the need for expensive ground works prior to installation. Designed and manufactured in Wiltshire, the building is delivered to site in kit form and is built from the ground up, regardless of the terrain. The only requirements are a small crew and a forklift.

With 100% of the structural elements being re-usable, the environmental impact is negligible.

See the advert below or visit www.worldwide-structures.com

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YOU’D WORLDWIDE...

YOU’D BE MUCH BETTER OFF LLOOKING T: +44 (0) 1672 565 060 M: +44 (0) 7875 027 369 E: enquiries@w-sl.com W: worldwide-structures.com

Outdoor Spaces Sunshade Services Specialist Bespoke Outdoor Structures X VKD

Sunshade Services specialise in the design, manufacture & installation of outdoor structures directly aimed at the hospitality sector. There are many things to consider when deciding which type of structure may best suit your needs including appearance, materials, safety, coverage required, planning issues and cost to name but a few.

Having a totally flexible approach allows us to offer what we feel is the best all round solution to suit your individual needs.

Every structure designed by us can be individually tailored to suit your requirements but allows us to meet any design requirements or site restrictions that may be placed upon.

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Contact us for your free no obligation quotation & start saving now.

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Please either call us on either of the numbers below or email your enquiry to info@sunshadeservices.co.uk & one of our sales team will get back to you as soon as they are free

Many of our structures can also be expanded upon in a modular fashion to allow further or extended coverage of large or awkward shaped areas allowing you to limit your capital expenditure as required.

OWG

CLH Digital

T: 01782 398848 / 07807 063734 e: info@sunshadeservices.co.uk

CambridgeStyle Canopies

CambridgeStyle Canopies have an enviable reputation in the hospitality sector for providing shade and shelter solutions for pubs, hotels and restaurants across the UK. We specialise in offering the right covering solutions to maximise your useable outdoor space with our range of made-to-measure aluminium outdoor canopy systems.

Our product range includes: • Wall mounted non-fragile or glass roof canopies with up to 6m projection and unlimited length • Free standing canopies with up to 12m projection and unlimited length • Solisysteme Bio Climatic Pergolas with the latest Somfy

technology and up to 7.1m post span • Zip Screens and Sliding Glass doors • Heating and lighting upgrades for all canopy systems Contact us to discuss your needs and arrange a site survey so we can help identify the right solution for your business. We have all the necessary accreditations within the construction sector and provide a no quibble 10-year guarantee on all products to give you peace of mind. Together we can help get business going again!

Emails office@cambridgestyle.org or visit www.cambridgestylecanopies.co.uk

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

CambridgeStyle Canopies have an enviable reputation in the hospitality sector for providing shade and shelter solutions for pubs, hotels and restaurants across the UK. We specialise in offering the right covering solutions to maximise your useable outdoor space with our range of madeto-measure aluminium outdoor canopy systems.

Our product range includes:

• Wall mounted non-fragile or glass roof canopies with up to 6m projection and unlimited length • Free standing canopies with up to 12m projection and unlimited length • SoliSySteme Bio Climatic Pergolas with the latest Somfy technology and up to 7.1m post span • Zip Screens and Sliding Glass doors • Heating and lighting upgrades for all canopy systems

Contact us to discuss your needs and arrange a site survey so we can help identify the right solution for your business. We have all the necessary accreditations within the construction sector and provide a no quibble 10-year guarantee on all products to give you peace of mind. Together we can help get business going again!

CambridgeStyle Canopies Ltd 01353 699009 | office@cambridgestyle.org | www.cambridgestylecanopies.co.uk “WE’VE GOT IT COVERED - NOBODY DOES IT BETTER”

Previous Clients Include:

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Outdoor Spaces

Issue 23

Get the Ultimate In Outdoor/Indoor Capitalise On Your Outside Space with a Broadview Shading Solution Versatility with Trent’s Plaza Furniture As pub and bar managers continue to make the most of their outdoor space in the wake of the pandemic, finding durable, functional and stylish outdoor furniture for socialising and dining has never been more important.

As the sturdy but lightweight Plaza range is suitable for use both indoors and out, it will soon become the hardest working furniture in your bar or restaurant. However, when you do need to store it, it is easily stackable and won’t take up much space.

With the Plaza range, durable good looks are cost-effective too. The chair is £39.90, the armchair is £46.90 and the hardened glass top table is £89.90.

Trent Furniture’s Plaza range, which includes a chair, armchair and table ticks all these boxes and more as it’s chic and contemporary style means it is equally at home in an indoor setting. Durable synthetic black rattan is hand woven around rust-resistant aluminium to create water and UV- resistant furniture designed to withstand the great British weather year after year.

For more information about Trent Furniture’s extensive range of contact grade outdoor furniture please call 0116 2986 286 or visit www.trentfurniture.co.uk.

A common source of lost revenue for pubs, cafés and restaurants, even without the covid-19 social distancing rules, is under-utilised outside space.

Installing a retractable awning or louvred roof pergola is the simplest and easiest way to create a sheltered area that boosts your establishment’s capacity all year round, come rain or shine. This means your customers will be able to enjoy a delicious dinner or their favourite tipple in style and socially distanced safety no matter what the ever-changing British weather is up to.

Not only will outside shading

Base Structures’ Expertise Helping Pubs and Restaurants Prosper With the rise of the UK ‘staycation’ and reports of up to twenty million British people staying at home this summer and autumn in lieu of going abroad, now is the perfect time to make sure UK leisure businesses and eating and drinking establishments are ensuring distancing can be achieved with maximum effect and minimal disruption to services.

Garden Furniture In Stock Now! In these troubled times, many of you will be looking for garden furniture to enable you to spread out more outside, to meet Government requirements re social distancing. Look no further than LeisureBench Ltd. for quality commercial grade outdoor products.

We have a huge range in stock now, thanks to our 50,000 sq. ft. of storage space. We have A Frame and round picnic tables, that includes heavy duty pressure treated designs, benches, parasols, chairs, tables, dining sets, Rattan furniture and much much more.

You are sure to find something that suits your requirements.

Make sure you order now while stocks last and take advantage of our trade only volume

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discounts.

Any purchase over £500 will save you 5% off our trade prices, £1000 plus orders, 10% off and £1500 plus orders will save you a massive 15% off.

On top of that readers of this magazine can claim an extra 5% off selected products, by using the discount code CATERER19 when ordering on our web site at the check out.

LeisureBench Ltd offer a speedy delivery throughout the UK. To view our full range of outdoor furniture, visit our website at www.leisurebench.co.uk.

You can also contact our dedicated sales team by emailing sales@leisurebench.co.uk or by telephoning 01949 862920.

Using either bespoke or ‘off the shelf’ or temporary structure solutions like canopies, Base Structures are able to ensure covered outdoor dining and entrance areas are designed in a way that provides weather protection and distancing, whilst maximising outdoor space to retain usefulness and profitability.

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allow you to safely serve as many people as possible while social distancing is in effect, but also long into the future when coronavirus is a distant memory, so it's an almost guaranteed return on your investment.

With a range of shading solutions available, from stylish awnings perfect for patio areas to impressive louvred roof outdoor structures that provide the ultimate in flexible dining space, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your business’s needs at Broadview Outdoor Shading.

To learn more and to book your free design consultation, get in touch with Broadview today on 01202 679012.

Kevin Hemmings, Base Structures Architectural Consultant, said: “The UK holiday market is booming and holiday makers are looking for socially distanced eating and drinking experiences, pubs and restaurants are having to adapt and use their space wisely to maximise capacity, whilst at the same time keeping abreast of and adhering to any new COVID regulations.

The work we do for clients makes their life easier. Being experts in outdoor canopies and tensile fabric

solutions, we can think creatively, and supply products that enables life to continue as normally as possible.

Our canopies and structures are sensitive to the environment around them and can be designed to look aesthetically pleasing.”

For more information about Base Structures, visit www.basestructures.com and have a look at their extensive portfolio of tensile fabric solutions and canopies for outdoor areas. For any questions or to chat through some options with the team, ring +44 (0) 1179 115250 or email sales@basestructures.com

Outdoor Spaces

Café Culture - Pavement Profit We are an independent supplier serving the outdoor restaurant trade with supplies for outdoor seating areas. We have some large clients including Gondola group along with many smaller cafe bars, restaurants and public houses.

made menu holders, waiter stations and planters all to you requirement. If we can help you do drop a line to sales@cafeculture.biz

We design and manufacturer our own windbreaks and use the best materials available. For anyone looking long term that saves you money as you won’t be replacing cheap internet imports next season. It’s one area where it doesn’t pay to buy budget as the continual bumps and scrapes outdoor goods receive combined with the harsh British climate really needs something tough enough for the job.

We also supply Markilux awning which are some of the best made in the industry and Uhlmann parasols another top rated German brand.

Bespoke goods are also a speciality with custom

EcoTensil Launches Plastic-Free Paperboard Utensils Across Europe European-based team, and distribution centre in Rotterdam.

The award-winning multi-functional EcoTensil utensils have a more pleasing “mouth-feel” than wooden spoons and forks. The sturdy EcoSpoon® is formed with one simple “bend to touch dotsTM” fold.

EcoTensil has designed its current product line for single-serve packaging, foodservice and sampling applications and supplies its utensils formatted ready to fit into existing packaging.

EcoTensil announces the European launch of its plastic-free single-use cutlery. The range of folding multifunctional paper utensils was developed to replace small plastic spoons in food packaging. The range is available to order through EcoTensil.eu.

Addressing the upcoming EU ban on single-use plastics, California-based EcoTensil brings its trusted sustainable paperboard solutions through its

All EcoTensil products are made from materials from well-managed FSC®-certified forests* and use 50-80% less material than plastic, bio-plastic or wood cutlery. . The GreenDot© line is made from a similar material to a coffee cup, but fully compostable, recyclable and contains no plastic. There is no taste, after taste, dissolving of the coating in one's mouth, or falling apart after a few bites.

Order online at www.EcoTensil.eu

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Design and Refit

Capricorn Contract Furnishings Capricorn Contract Furnishings are now firmly established as one of the country's largest stockist and supplier of quality contract furnishings to cafes, bars, restaurants, pubs, clubs and hotels.

Capricorn are based in a 40, 000 square feet showroom and distribution warehouse on the outskirts of Exeter in Devon. From within the distribution area we are able to offer a next day delivery service on thousands of products including tables , chairs , stools

and lounge furniture.

Customers are encouraged to visit our large showroom to view an extensive range of furniture ideally suited for the leisure market.

Here you can relax and let Capricorn help and advise you with your requirements.

Opening hours for the showroom are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

For more information or a Capricorn Contract Furnishings catalogue and price list contact Brian Pengelly on 01395 233 320, or visit www.ccf-ltd.uk.

Caterquip - For All Your Commercial Catering Ventilation Needs Caterquip Ventilation Ltd is proud to be celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year.

The Warwick based company offers nationwide coverage for all your commercial catering needs - free site surveys, quotations & designs (CAD), quality bespoke & standard fabrications, specialist knowledge of catering ventilation systems (including input air, odour reduction (carbon filtration and ESP) and sound attenuation. Affiliated members of Constructionline, CHAS & B&ES Caterquip Ventilation have a strong hold in the marketplace often advising industry professionals on ventilations systems to a DW172 specification & BSEN:6173.

They have strong relationships with all lead-

ing kitchen equipment suppliers, and they offer a kitchen design service to help you to build your ideal kitchen.

Projects undertaken have included Olympic Villages, Basildon Hospital, Dock Gate 4, The Lodge at Old Hunstanton, Colleges, Schools, Hotels, Restaurants and Public Houses. Ensuring that all systems are compliant with the current guidelines whilst maintaining an efficient and dynamic facility.

With extensive knowledge of manufacturing and installing ventilation systems, we can help you design the best kitchen within the space available.

Call today on 01926 887167 or visit caterquipventilation.co.uk

ILF Chairs - Seating with Wider Appeal ILF have been supplying top quality indoor and outdoor chairs and tables for over the past 30 years to the hospitality market. We offer a wide selection of products to suit all tastes and as importantly, budgets!

We pride ourselves outstanding personal service with the motto ' No job is ever too big or too small â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customer satisfaction that counts'.

In this demanding Health & Safety led market place we guarantee that all our fabrics and fillings meet the exacting BS5852 Crib 5 fire reg-

ulations.

The majority of our products are available in a choice of frames, colours and we can offer an extensive choice of fabrics including real Leather and Faux Leather. In addition, we also able to offer a full service on bench seating and re-upholstery.

Delivery times are generally 4 weeks from order, but we can also offer a "fast track" service for certain products.

Why not contact us at sales@ilfchairs.com or on 01293 783783 and find out how we can help you fulfil your seating and table needs.

Design and Refit

Engraved Table Numbers and QR Discs Facilitate Social Distancing as Pubs and Restaurants Re-Open The hospitality sector has begun to open its doors after the long lock down faced with a major challenge to maintain social distancing. Government guidelines stated that from 4th July pubs and restaurants should encourage the use of contactless ordering from tables and should adjust their service approach to minimise staff contact with customers.

It’s a huge ask and one which Brunel Engraving, one of the country’s leading commercial and industrial engraving specialists, has been working on to kick start the industry.

Brunel has made a substantial investment in additional state of the art engraving equipment in order to produce individually etched table numbers and QR code discs which will provide clear markings and information for the public in order to satisfy the requirement for social distancing.

The individually engraved table numbers and discs will enable customers to link to Apps or menus, reducing staff contact and eliminating the requirement for hard copies of menus.

“We are working hard to keep the British hospitality industry going through these difficult times and we have invested heavily in new equipment to ensure that we can

SD Screens

SD Screens is a new division of Sims Contract Furniture and our solution to support the hospitality sector in recovering from the aftermath of a global pandemic. Our aim was to manufacture a high quality, British made solution at a fraction of the price of our competitors.

During lockdown we developed a range of Social Distancing screens to enable commercial premises to open their doors with ease, allow customers to return in a safe environ-

answer the increasing demand for our engraved products”, said Martyn Wright, managing director of Brunel Engraving and founder of the company.

“Many pubs and restaurants have been undertaking major renovations during the lockdown period and we have assisted with their efforts to maintain social distancing by supplying table numbers, QR code discs, signage, PPE Visors and distancing floor stencils which will be used in the new public areas as businesses open their doors to the public once again.”

Established over 30 years ago, Brunel Engraving is a pioneering engraving specialist which leads the way in technical innovation. The company has ISO9001 accreditation and its highly skilled team of professional engravers is trained to the highest standards in the UK. In addition to rotary engraving Brunel offers laser engraving, chemical etching, anodic print, dye sublimation print, flatbed UV print and wide format UV print.

For further information please contact: Martyn Wright, Managing Director, Brunel Engraving Company Limited Tel: 01275 871720 Email: info@brunelengraving.co.uk Website: www.brunelengraving.co.uk ment with some boasting up to 95% capacity.

The range is available in 2 different sizes, in 3 colourways with an optional wing to complement our well established Modular Banquette Seating range. Made from real wood, stained to your preferred choice of 3 colours and coated using a polyurethane lacquer, the screens are easy to wipe clean making turnaround time in-between covers an easy task.

The screens arrive to you preassembled, all you need to do is screw on the feet and you are ready to open your doors.

To order or to discuss your requirements please contact our sales team on 01945 450957, email us at sales@simscf.com or buy online at www.sdscreens.co.uk

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Create The Perfect Atmosphere With Upholstered Chairs Finding the perfect furniture to enhance your bar or restaurant’s décor couldn’t be easier with Trent Furniture’s wide choice of upholstery fabrics, chosen to complement our large selection of stylish chairs.

You can select your choice of upholstery from the extensive range available on Trent’s website or on the colour match card sent with our brochure. Most customers can find exactly what they want from our large selection, but Trent’s expert in-house upholsterers are also happy to upholster furniture with fabric supplied by you.

Upholstered wooden chairs combine durability and comfort

Square One Interiors

and are always a versatile choice for any hospitality setting. Trent’s classically designed Boston chair is available in a light oak, dark oak or walnut finish, with a great choice of matching fabric or leather upholstery.

Alternatively, the Washington chair’s clean lines make it a smart and practical choice for any bar or restaurant.

Trent’s upholstered chairs and bar stools are both stylish and cost effective. The upholstered Washington Side Chair starts at £39.90 and the upholstered Boston Side Chair is available from £46.90.

See the full range of upholstered chairs at www.trentfurniture.co.uk or call us on 0116 2986 286 to find out more.

Making furniture from scratch also had its benefits, as Jamie soon found that businesses would approach him with specific needs and requirements, meaning that he was able to provide a fully bespoke service, as well as Starting out in his garden shed, Jamie never thought offering design and advice. that his new range of reclaimed furniture would become Since his humble beginnings in the garden shed, Jamie as successful as it has over the past 2 years. Having had a and the company have now history in design and furniture work with hospitality operators, design, an idea was born and he pubs, bars and hotels, as well as decided to run with it. He loved some large contract furniture the idea of a rustic looking, companies and high street industrial range which was also names. Our portfolio and workeco friendly and sustainable. He force are growing and we are soon found that a modern twist very excited to be working on was also achievable, by using some fantastic projects moving bright colours on the steel forwards, so watch this space! frames, as well as several differVisit ent wood finishes which would www.squareoneinteriors.co.uk compliment the overall design.

Brave New World

I have been really pleased to speak again to our restaurant and pub customers as they gradually begin to open their doors and entertain customers. Naturally, they all face new challenges, and we are doing our best to assist.

Using candles, and in particular, oil candles, can be more useful than ever now. When number of tables and diners are reduced, candles create ambience and atmosphere on those tables that are used and help create normality.

They can also be used to show which tables are available for use, so rather than remove tables, you can just

remove chairs, thereby increasing distance between people, but not making the restaurant look empty.

And there are enough extra cleaning regimes required now, that you don’t need any extra mess from wax candles to be dealt with. Oil candles create no mess, and no waste. They also last for the whole of service, unlike tlights, reducing the number of times staff may need to visit a table.

Many people have used the lockdown to revamp, refurb or freshen up the restaurant, so now is the perfect time to upgrade to oil candles, from as little as £2.99 each.

To see our full range, and request a sample, visit www.clearcraft-catering.co.uk or call me, Mike, on 01279 731621

Design and Refit

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CLH Digital

CFG Capabilities Inspire Customer Confidence Thousands of pubs, bars and restaurants up and down the UK have safely reopened thanks to the quick thinking and supply chain capabilities of the Contract Furniture Group (CFG). As the pandemic spread and lock down forced many to down tools, the team at CFG sprang into action to design, source and manufacture the range of PPE screens, sanitiser stations and safety signage it knew would be needed to get the hospitality sector back in business.

The first few weeks of lockdown subsequently felt out of step with the rest of the country for the UK’s leading supplier of contract furniture, as CFG managing director Richard Bellamy confirms: “As most of the nation’s businesses effectively prepared to go into hibernation, we were frantically working to create products we knew would be essential to get this sector trading again. While others were forced to wind down at work, we were winding up the product development and production activity for our social

and sneeze screens. We quickly added sanitiser stations, masks, signage and various other essentials to the range, so remained in full flow. It turned out to be a good thing we moved so quickly as demand soon outstripped supply and at times it was a real challenge to keep up with orders.

“With so many venues now using our PPE range to keep customers safe, we’re starting to get back to our core business of designing, fitting and furnishing pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. Hopefully it won’t be long before the sector is buzzing again.”

Contract Furniture Group has served the hospitality industry for over two decades.

The size of its range and project capabilities remain unrivalled, and the firm still promises to never to beat any quote for products of the same quality. Visit www.ContractFurniture.co.uk to learn more, or call the team on 0115 965 9030 to discuss your contract furniture needs.

CardsSafe - Protecting Assets ®

The CardsSafe® system is specifically designed to securely retain customer credit, debit and ID cards while the cardholder runs a tab or uses a service.

CardsSafe® has revolutionised the way hospitality and leisure businesses manage their assets. It protects against theft and walkouts, streamlines services and reduces losses, which means it pays for itself!

There are numerous benefits of using CardsSafe® for your business and over 5000 outlets in the UK agree!

• CardsSafe® reduce costs and losses, makes card fraud is virtually impossible and ensures that equipment is returned • CardsSafe® is affordable and pays for itself! From just £9.95 (net) per unit per month + a one

off admin charge.

• CardsSafe® ensures peace of mind and protects against fraud and theft • CardsSafe® increases staff trust and improves the work environment • CardsSafe® is easy to use with minimal training and quick to install • CardsSafe® is PCI & GDPR Compliant to standards 9.6, 9.9, 12.2 and 12.6 and protects card data from identity fraud and theft Please visit our website and create your own account quickly and securely. Or for more information, please contact the CardsSafe Customer Service Team.

WEB: www.cardssafe.com Phone: 0845 500 1040

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Design and Refit

Sims - The First Port Of Call For Banquette Seating

We are a family run business with 3 generations of commercial furniture manufacturing experience. Unlike other suppliers we manufacture all our seating inhouse, no importing, no subcontracting. We have full control over every aspect from design to installation to ensure every product leaves our workshops punctually and to our reputable high quality.

Proudly offering 2 versions of Banquette Seating, firstly our “Premium Made to Measure” Banquette Seating which is built to your exact design, shape and size, then installed by our professional installation team. You can have anything from floor to ceiling designs to seating that perfectly follows the

MST Auctioneers

MST AUCTIONEERS Ltd specialise in handling & auctioning a wide variety of goods.

We act for Insolvency Practitioners, Receivers, Bailiffs and Solicitors as well as large PLCs. We are members of The National Association of Auctioneers and Valuers (NAVA).

For the past 25 years, we've provided a unique disposal service tailored to suit, liquidators, banks, receivers as

walls in a period setting.

Secondly our “Modular Banquette Seating” which is freestanding, set size units for you to mix and match to best fit your space. Manufactured and delivered to your doorstep ready for you to layout. Made to the same high standards as our premium range without setup costs, site visits and installation fees. Saving you up to 50% on competitors seating.

Also, we offer a range of furnishings – tables, chair and bedroom furniture. To request a brochure or to discuss your requirement further please contact our sales team on 01945 450957 email Sales@simscf.com Web www.simscf.com well as private and corporate vendors. We carry out probate valuations and conduct complete house and commercial clearances.

We have the largest Auction venue in the South of England. Our regular monthly Auctions occupy 45,000 sq.ft. of undercover space, selling over 2500 lots from 3 rostrums over two days.

We have storage and removal facilities. In addition we have forklifts for machinery up to 5 tons.

We also hold regular Auctions ”On Site” and "On Line" See the advert on page 40 for further details.

Drakes Bar Furniture - UK Bar Furniture Supplier

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising

We pride ourselves in providing the best quality items at great prices with fantastic customer service and can supply bespoke tailored made furniture such as booths, tables, seating or ‘off the peg’ items.

Drakes Bar Furniture not only sell chairs, stools, tables we also design build and install all types of fixed seating, pews and booth seating for pubs, clubs, bars, restaurants and clubs.

When fitting out a premise the seating is almost paramount for a successful space. Fixed seating, booth seating or banquette seating as its also called can come in variety of colours, finishes, types and styles. Below are just a few examples showing what we have done in the past.

With clever planning, seating generates a great flow for customers and staff

around a pub, restaurant, cafe or club. It can be used to divide areas, create new spaces in a room and offer intimacy allowing for the perfect social meet up.

The beauty of bespoke fixed seating is that we can make the most of and take advantage of your space and features. We can come to your venue and measure up, give you advice and show you examples of our past work, finishes, types and styles.

We have a wide range of Bar Furniture, including tables, stools, chairs, outdoor beer garden, fixed seating and banqueting furniture.

If you require a bespoke quote either call us on 01422 839 690 or you can send us an email.

See the advert below for details.

Design and Refit

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CLH Digital

Adveco AD: Tough, Highly Efficient Commercial Water Heating

Commercial hot water and heating specialist Adveco introduces a new generation of sleekly designed, tough and efficient modulating commercial floor-standing gas condensing water heaters that can be connected directly to a chlorinated mains water supply and will resist the naturally corrosive nature of soft water.

Used in conjunction with a buffer vessel, the AD range of water heaters is designed to meet high semi-instantaneous hot water demands typically seen in hotels, leisure & sports centres, stadia and spas.

Bill Sinclair, technical director, Adveco said, “The titanium-stabilised stainless-steel construction of the AD range’s heat exchangers is the perfect response to counter the concerns of corrosion in soft, or softened water applications. Compact, lightweight yet

still powerful, the AD’s patented space-saving design makes it equally applicable to both new projects or renovation work where a lack of space would traditionally stall or quickly drive up costs of a project.”

The range offers models with one to four 70 kW heat exchangers, optimised to supply up to 160 litres/minute of domestic hot water (DHW). The AD can also be configured to operate in a cascade of up to eight water heaters. Models with multiple integrated heat exchangers offer load balancing for optimal long-life operation and inbuilt redundancy guaranteeing continuity of service. Premix burner technology ensures the AD requires less gas, making it more costeffective, plus helping to reducing harmful NOX and CO emissions.

T. 01252 551 540 e. enquiries@adveco.co www.adveco.co

Noble Russell’s Bespoke Furniture For The Return Of Gymkhana Restaurant

Gymkhana, the jewel in the crown of JKS restaurant group has returned redesigned and all new, Phoenix like from the extensive fire of summer, 2019.

With the realisation of the extent of damage from the fire the team at Gymkhana decided to not only rebuild but embark on an extensive program to redesign the space, carefully retaining the atmosphere and look of this much-loved restaurant.

As per-fire, Gymkhana is split over two floors with the two distinctive interior designs refined. The ground floor is resplendent in tones of Jade green and polished dark timber and rich printed fabrics with the lower ground floor referencing subtle elements from northIndian architecture and a vivid colour pallet of peach and Kashmiri chilli red.

With an established and trusted relationship between Noble Russell and JKS restaurants NR were contacted within days of the fire to help where possible, rescuing items to be reused from the original interior and then

undertake the development and specifications for all the new furniture.

Working closely with the JKS inhouse team technical design and prototypes were produced of chairs, stools, banquettes seating and tables. These were developed and with further refinements, made into a fitting family of furniture with a rich tapestry of colours textures and details, all made to a high quality of manufacture.

The custom-made furniture was completed and installed by Noble Russell’s professional team on time and within budget, ready for the restaurant’s 2020 opening – Noble Russell is a contract furniture company specialising in the creation of exceptional bespoke products. They have dedicated themselves to over 27 years of furniture design and production, providing customers with the highest quality service.

More information on Noble Russell can be found on their website: noblerussell.co.uk

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Property and Professional

For Sale: Well-Established Traditional Tea-Room

Commercial property specialists Stonesmith, are delighted to be marketing the sale of this thriving and well-regarded day time only traditional tea-room. The Singing Kettle is set within a charming character filled Grade II listed property. The business offers potential for incoming operators to purchase an attractive and highly sought-after business with a successful trade from both locals and visitors alike. The premises retain period original features including heavily beamed ceilings and is presented to a high standard throughout.

They briefly comprise of: Main Tea Room Seating Area comfortably seating 30 customers; Customer Servery and Preparation Area and Kitchen Area; Well-presented and spacious Living Accommodation offering 2 Double Bedrooms (1 with Ensuite Shower Room), attractive Sitting Room with feature vaulted ceiling, spacious Kitchen and separate Family Bathroom.

town centre trading position in the very heart of Dartmouth, which is one of the prettiest and possibly most visited and photographed of all of the South Hams towns.

The Singing Kettle offers a traditional and popular menu to include breakfast, morning coffees, lunches, afternoon teas, to include the popular Devon cream tea, together with a selection of hot and cold beverages. The business trades daytime hours only for around 42 weeks of the year in order to suit our client’s lifestyle requirements. For anyone looking to relocate to the West Country, this could be the perfect opportunity to run a profitable catering business, with a comfortable home in a much sought-after estuary town.

The leasehold business is on the market for an asking price of £79,950.

Full property details are available on our website: www.stonesmith.co.uk and viewings arranged by calling 01392 201262.

The Singing Kettle occupies a prime

Phoenix Specialist Risk Solutions Much like the mythological bird, Phoenix Specialist Risk Solutions was born from the ashes of an industry which has grown tired and disassociated from the people it is designed to protect. Phoenix is built to be different, our main focus is you.

We have built our business with care at the core of everything we do. We strive to offer a quality personalised service which is tailored to each individual’s needs — we listen to you, get to know you and aim to support you every step of the way.

Your business is in most cases the biggest risk and the biggest asset you will ever have from the initial days of worrying about business levels and cash flow through to staff and HR issues and then back to business levels and cash flow, a revolving cycle. Within your business you will also have your trusted partners, your accountants and bankers,

do you include your insurance broker? If not why not?

Commercial insurance should not just be about the lowest possible price, it should be with someone you can work with and trust, someone flexible to the changes your business faces and someone who can advise you of which covers you may like to consider and not just the ones which you are legal required to have. Does your business description on your policy actually match your business, are your sums insured reviewed and adequate, do you have seasonal stock increases? Have you declared the accurate turnover and wageroll?

We work with you to help you establish and maintain an insurance program which meets your needs and provides the best value for money.

See the website on the facing page or visit www.phoenixsrs.co.uk

Please mention the Caterer, Licensee & Hotelier News when replying to advertising T H E W E S T C O U N T RY S P E C I A L I S T S

TAUNTON, SOMERSET

DEVON/CORNWALL BORDERS

DORSET VILLAGE

Attractive Licensed Cafe & Restaurant Trading on a Predominately Day Time Only Basis Main Restaurant 45+ & Al Fresco Seating For 32 Impressive Town Centre Business All Serious Offers Considered

Immaculate Detached Village Guest House 5 Quality Ensuite Letting Bedrooms Superior 2 Bedroom Owner’s Accommodation Commercial Kitchens, Car Park & Gardens Profitable Lifestyle B & B Business

Substantial And impressive Character Inn Located In Highly Sought After Dorset Village Bar/Dining Area (50+) & Restaurant (32) 4 Stunning Letting Rooms & 3 Bed Owner’s Set In Over ¾ Acre With Extensive Car Parking

LH £35,000

2040

SOUTH DEVON COAST Exceptional Waterfront Licensed Café & Restaurant Impressive & Stunning Trading Location Main Café & Restaurant Seating 60+ Commercial Catering Kitchen & Ancillary Facilities Located In A Popular & Highly Sought-After Town

LH £75,000

2117

TAUNTON, SOMERSET Stunning Waterside Licensed Restaurant Impressive Sales Of £540,410 Net Of VAT Refurbished Restaurant Areas Seating 74 Customers External Seating for 30, Well Appointed Kitchens Outstanding Town Centre Opportunity

LH £95,000

2115

FH £650,000

6004

EAST DEVON Well Regarded Free Of Tie Bar & Restaurant 3 High Quality Ensuite Letting Rooms Spacious 5 Bedroom Owner's Accomm Trade Areas Seat 94+, Commercial Kitchens Extremely Well Equipped and Well Presented

LH £45,000

4784

SOMERSET TOWN Impressive & Well-Appointed Guest House Stunning Property With 9 Quality Letting Rooms Owner’s 3 Bedroom Cottage, Gardens, Parking Exceptional Home & Income Opportunity Extremely Profitable & Easy To Run B&B

FH £799,950

THINKING OF SELLING? CALL FOR A FREE VALUATION

6007

FH £675,000

4798

EAST DEVON COAST Attractive and Well-Regarded Licensed Restaurant Busy Trading Position In Popular Coastal Town Main Restaurant Seating 42+ Customers Operating On Deliberately Restricted Opening Hours Strong Levels Of Trade & Potential For Daytime Opening

LH £45,000

2109

NORTH CORNWALL Award Winning Free Of Tie Pub & Restaurant 4 Quality Letting Rooms & Superior 5 Bed Owner’s Trade Areas Seating 90 & Comm. Kitchens Recently Refurbished Throughout Stunning High Turnover Business Opportunity

LH £99,950

4800

01392 201262 www.stonesmith.co.uk

Property and Professional

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CLH Digital

Maintain a Healthy Cashflow with Boyes Turner Having an effective debt recovery system in place is a must for all businesses – Boyes Turner’s Debt recovery service has considerable experience in dealing with uncontested cases in the leisure and hospitality industry. With our expertise in the industry and including recruitment, logistics and audiovisual, the team pride themselves on offering an efficient and cost effective service on fixed standard charges.

The Debt recovery service deals with the collection of all uncontested debts from

the issue of demand letters through to issuing court proceedings, obtaining judgment and enforcement thereof including insolvency proceedings.

With a real understanding of the pressures, targets, and deadlines faced by credit controllers and managers with the industry slowly going back to work, our service operates as an extension to your own internal credit control team.

Call today on 0118 952 7173 or email dgoddard@boyesturner.com

New Weekly Figures Analysis & Reporting Service David Hunter has been in the business for over 30 years, and with his vast amount of experience has become an expert in ensuring that businesses reach their full financial potential.

For years he’s provided a bespoke Mentoring & Consultancy service to a select few, and he has always provided with that, free-of-charge weekly figures analysis and reporting … yes, weekly.

David has now come up with a way of making his amazing Mentoring & Consultancy service more accessible to the wider market, and for a lower monthly fee.

Instead of being charged for monthly consultancy, you can now access David’s knowledge and expertise via his already-established and very wellused weekly figures reporting system.

He will send you weekly reports on how your business is doing and will

throw in FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE AT ALL, four half-day on site Mentoring & Consultancy visits per year (or two full days, depending on location). He will also always be at the end of a phone for you, or email, if you needed him, and he also has access to legal experts as well as a ‘’tried and trusted’’ Bowden Group Alliance colleague who can advise you … again FREE OF CHARGE … on how to save money on your utility bills.

If you have a Pub, Restaurant or Hotel business which is facing financial or operational challenges … why not let David have a look, and help you maximise your full potential. There is no cost to David having a look at your figures, and letting you know what COULD be achieved.

Call David Hunter confidentially on 07831 407984 or on 01628 487613.

The Retail Mutual Launches Business Cover Product for the Catering Industry with variable limits to include just the cover they need, and benefit from a range of additional information and support services to help them manage their business both in times of need and in times of growth.

As the hospitality sector is given the green light to reopen from 4 July, The Retail Mutual has this week announced the launch of its new business cover product, specifically tailored to the needs of the restaurant and catering trades.

Having served independent retailers since 1999, The Retail Mutual is delighted to be able to open its doors to a wider range of independent businesses including restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, bakeries, and takeaways.

With small business owners under intense pressure to reduce overheads and minimise risks, The Retail Mutual sets out to offer an alternative. Unlike an insurance company, as a discretionary mutual it is Memberowned and operates in the sole interests of its Member community. It is open to independents only, specialising in supporting retailers, restaurateurs and take-away owners who own and run their own independent businesses. Members can create a personalised cover plan

The service is available online at www.theretailmutual.com/catering, offering those in the hospitality sector the flexibility to obtain a quote and buy their cover outside standard office hours. Those who prefer to buy by telephone can do so via the Mutual’s UK-based Member Services Centre on 0333 2121 007.

Mutual Manager, Kirsty Hampton, said, “It’s great to see businesses be able to reopen their doors after a period of closure during the coronavirus pandemic. This is a welcome boost to the hospitality market and to further support the high street, we are expanding our Open for Business campaign to include the food service industry.

Expanding into the catering sector was the natural progression for the Mutual. There is huge synergy with retail and in fact many of our existing Members own multiple businesses that span both categories. We are delighted to give them the opportunity to access competitive cover for all their businesses all in one place and to welcome a new tranche of independent business owners into The Retail Mutual’s Member community.”

See the advert on this page for further details.

For Sale: Licensed Coffee House and Tea Garden Commercial property specialists Stonesmith, are delighted to be marketing the sale of Selleys Coffee Shop - a popular and well-regarded character licensed café, coffee house and tea garden in Sidmouth. The business was established 30 years ago, and has been owned and operated by our clients for the last 7 years. Presented in excellent order throughout, the business offers potential for incoming operators to purchase an attractive, easy to run and sought-after catering business with an excellent reputation with both locals and visitors alike.

The premises are quite unique, forming part of a courtyard development of retail units, from which spinoff trade is derived. Libra Court is situated in a lucrative town centre trading position, just off the main seafront and the main shopping thoroughfare of Fore Street.

The business, which is pur-

posefully fitted, briefly comprises: - Main Coffee Shop/Tea Room Seating Area seating 14 customers, Customer Servery, Kitchen, Separate Wash Up Room and a Customer Cloakroom. Enclosed Courtyard Seating Area providing al fresco seating for 32 customers, with electrically operated canopy and heat lamps, enabling customers to sit outside year-round.

Selleys also offers potential for incoming operators to develop their own style of trade, to suit their own personal requirements, taking advantage of this desirable catering business in this extremely popular East Devon coastal town. With solid levels of trade and profits, there is genuine potential to increase all aspects of the trade still further.

The leasehold business is on the market for an asking price of £39,950. Full property details are available on our website: www.stonesmith.co.uk and viewings arranged by calling 01392 201262.

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