CLH Digital - Issue #58

Issue 58

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One-Metre Rule Set ‘To Be Scrapped Next Month’ to Help Hospitality Recover

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Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told Conservative MPs the ‘one-metre plus’ rule for social distancing remains set to be abandoned in June.

The Prime Minister said eliminating the measure was the ‘single biggest difference’ the government could bring about in order to get Britain’s pubs back into action, and he was eager for the rule to be scrapped by June 21.

While the rule is in force, pubs, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and other hospitality businesses remain commercially unviable, having to legally keep customers separated while using their premises, industry leaders have warned.

The rise of the Indian Covid variant had sparked concerns that plans to end social distancing measures were in jeopardy, however, the PM has told Conservative MPs he is ‘confident’ about abolishing the measures next month, according to the Times Boris Johnson told the 1922 Committee earlier this week: ‘We are hopeful we can do that at the end of the road map.’ But he added it depends on figures ‘continuing in the right direction’.

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CLH Digital

Issue 58

Editor's Viewpoint

Welcome to the latest issue of CLH DIGITAL “Never make an excuse for going to the pub, save it for leaving.”

BENNY BELLAMACINA I am hoping our Prime Minister is going to stand firm! I strongly suspect in the coming weeks he and the government in general will come under enormous pressure to further restrict or close sectors of the economy which invariably means hospitality, pubs and restaurants in the firing line yet again!

EDITOR

Peter Adams

The naysayers are already out spreading their doom.

Already reports are surfacing that the Indian variant could force a comeback for 'Tier 4' stay-at-home rules in certain areas - with grants of up to £18,000 for affected businesses.

What I have read there are three “proposed” options for what will happen on June 21, when the whole country expected to end that will either ahead as planned, or there will be local restrictions in some areas, or some June 21 easings will be delayed for the whole country.

Some Regions could be forced into a ‘Tier 4’ system with pubs, restaurants and nonessential shops closed and a stay-at-home order for the general public.

The Prime Minister has often spoken about how he would like to get the economy open and return to normal as quickly as possible. Well, don’t we all? Prime Minister "cometh the hour cometh the man".

Any attempt to restrict the industry further is another nail in its coffin, so I really would urge the Prime Minister to stand firm on his commitment to lift all restrictions on June 21.

An article in this issue from one of our advertisers reveals that half of Brits are planning a summer staycation. New research from Smart Energy GB reveals how small businesses have been making upgrades to prepare for the ‘big summer of spending’, with research suggesting that British staycations are at an all-time high. A quarter of Brits (25%) have booked a holiday in the country for the summer months, and nearly half (49%) are planning to head somewhere in Britain before November.

No business can plan with the spectre restrictions and further lockdowns hanging over

the country like a dark cloud.

The public as we report almost every week are chomping at the bit to get back to normal, and there is nothing more normal in the UK and going out for a drink, a meal or an overnight stay somewhere.

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And there is a real opportunity (hopefully when the weather breaks) to get the sector back on its feet quickly.

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Which is why I was rather disappointed to see that the Chancellor has allegedly ruled out a further scheme similar to last year’s “Eat Out To Help Out” which was a great success.

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If that is too cumbersome and difficult to run with the risk of fraud then the solution is simple, cut alcohol tax for the summer in the on trade.

Again in this issue there are calls to reduce beer tax by 50%. We have often said here at CLH News that our alcohol duty/tax is far too high compared to EU countries.

And earlier this week coalition of industry trade bodies has written to the Chancellor, calling for duty on draught beer sold in pubs to be halved, which will save drinkers and average 21p a pint.

Again. I suspect that if this were the case the Chancellor public collect more money in revenue than he does the higher tax.

I remember reading quite a few years back one of America’s most respected economists said that governments will collect more tax revenue by lowering tax rates!

Quite simply if you tax product to high people simply don’t buy it or buy less.

Consequently if they don’t buy it or buy less there is less tax revenue to collect.

Reduce the tax and make it more accessible and attractive to purchasers then they buy more, it really isn’t that difficult.

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EDITOR Peter Adams

SALES EXECUTIVES David Bartlett Guy Stephenson

PRODUCTION & DESIGN Matthew Noades

PRODUCTION & WEB ADMIN Shelly Roche Published Publishedbyby

Once again we have called on some of the industry’s leading lights to provide insight as we lead up to reopening, plus we are delighted to introduce some of the best products and services in the marketplace to help prepare for the grand reopening!

Please do email us with any of your news and views we would be delighted to print them and I can only be contacted on edit@catererlicensee.com

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One-Metre Rule Set ‘To Be Scrapped Next Month’ to Help Hospitality Recover Issue 58

The PMs comments comes as the UK’s daily death toll from Covid-19 has fallen by more than a third in a week, with only seven victims yesterday.

Britain’s daily Covid deaths have fallen by more than a third in a week as seven more victims and 2,874 positive tests were recorded. Yesterday’s infections were up slightly on the 2,657 last Thursday, a rise of about 8 per cent, but the national case rate has remained stable since April.

Last week the PM said more announcements would be made regarding social distancing and masks ‘before the end of the month’. He said a return to normality would depend on the Indian variant remaining under control after infections have surged in several areas.

One MP who was at the 1922 meeting said: ‘He seemed very upbeat about removing the one-metre-plus rule next month.

Although current regulations allow six people or two households to drink inside, customers still need to order, eat and drink while seated, however the pubs’s dimensions make that impossible.

With one person serving behind the bar even a single drinker breaks the one metre plus rule!

Last week the PM said more announcements would be made regarding social distancing and masks ‘before the end of the month’. He said a return to normality would depend on the Indian variant remaining under control after infections have surged in several areas.

“I think we have to wait a little bit longer to see how the data is looking but I am cautiously optimistic about that and provided this Indian variant doesn’t take off in the way some people fear, I think certainly things could get back much, much closer to normality,’ he said.

Young’s Confirms Discussions To Sell Tenanted Estate The pub group made the announcement in its preliminary results for the year ended 29 March 2021 which reported revenue of £90.6m, down from £311.6m the prior year, as well as pre-tax losses of £45.2m. and reported that outdoor trading at the 144 pubs it opened on 12 April achieved 85% of normal trade.

In a statement, Young’s said: “Young’s notes the recent media speculation regarding the company’s appointment of Savills in connection with a possible sale of its tenanted estate.

“The company confirms that Savills has been appointed and that it is in discussions regarding a possible sale. There can be no certainty, however, that any sale will proceed.

“Young’s will make further announcements as appropriate.”

Chief executive Patrick Dardis said: “We were able to navigate our way through the pandemic, despite the last financial year being one of the most challenging in our 189-year history. I am extremely proud of the way our teams have reacted to the extraordinary challenges that we have faced. The absolute professionalism of our pub managers and their teams has enhanced our reputation as a highly responsible pub operator and underlined the exceptional quality of the Young’s business.

“Despite the many lockdowns and disruption to our business, the financing decisions taken during the summer allowed us to continue to make significant investments in our pubs, with some truly transformational projects. We expect to see excellent growth from that investment this year and beyond.”

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The PM said ministers will ensure they follow the data when making a firm decision about the June 21 final unlocking date. ‘If we have to do other things, then of course the public would want us to rule nothing out,’ he added, ‘We have always been clear we would be led by the data. ‘At the moment, I can see nothing that dissuades me from thinking we will be able to go ahead on Monday and indeed on June 21, everywhere, but there may be things we have to do locally and we will not hesitate to do them if that is the • MICROWAVES • EXTRACTION CANOPIES • advice we get.’

Chief executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, Emma McClarkin, welcomed the news. She said: ‘Given pubs are financially unviable under the current restrictions they face, being able to reopen without any restrictions at all from June 21 is going to be vital to their survival.’

London pub operator Young’s has confirmed it is investigating the sale of its 63-strong tenanted division.

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Pre-lockdown the former Victorian signal box, and now a pub in could "comfortably" accommodate up to six people, but despite the latest easing capacity is restricted to what only is permissible within current social distancing and table service rules.

‘He told us he fully realises that it is the biggest difference the government can make to letting pubs serve customers in reasonably normal conditions and that means getting rid of any capacity restrictions.’

The possible scrapping of the one metre rule would be good news for the world’s smallest pub, The Signal Box Inn in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, which at just 2.4 metres by 2.4 metres are unable to seat customers inside until the one metre plus rule is ditched.

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Indoor Opening: Will This Be A Turnaround Call For The Hospitality Sector?

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CLH Digital

Issue 58

By Kunal Sawhney, CEO of Kalkine (www.kalkine.co.uk) in July last year, when the restrictions were at the peak. The online booking service The Fork, which was initially called Bookatable, noted that 88% eating joints opened this Monday, whereas only 47% were active after the first stage of reopening on 12 April.

The VoucherCodes.co.uk report estimated that on the opening day itself, 13.6 million visited the restaurants and would have spent altogether £296.8 million first time in many months.

The report has further added that Friday and the weekend will be the busiest days as more than 16.1 million and 19 million, respectively, are expected to visit the restaurants hoping to spend between £389.1 million and £426.2 million each day. If we compare the spending with the 2019 figures before Covid-19, the venues are set to see a 34.8 per cent increase in business in just a week. The 2019 figures stood at £301.84 million.

Monday saw the next phase of reopening, which allowed restaurants and bars to open their indoor dining and cinemas and theatres to welcome back their customers after more than a year.

This phase of reopening is a big milestone for the United Kingdom’s recovery in the post-pandemic world. From Monday, theatres, cinemas, gyms, and museums have opened for Britons. The new restriction rules will now allow indoor drinking and dining, which will be replaced with the previous ones that allowed pubs, restaurants to operate in open areas only. According to hospitality data provider, CGA and consultants Alix Partners, eating inside the restaurant will change a lot of things, like customer spending.

A latest report by VoucherCodes.co.uk, Life after Covid, predicted that more than 104 million people will be visiting any of these hospitality venues this week and make most of the indoor settings, which has opened almost after a year. According to news reports, a record number of tables were reserved on Monday, almost 12% more than what it was

The report has highlighted that despite the third lockdown and slump in overall business, the future is bright and can take a profitable turn in the coming months. It has stated the partial re-opening on 12 April and the period till 17 May, was a good start for the venues especially for the pubs and the sector in whole, which incurred whopping losses in last one year due to the pandemic and uncertainties around it.

According to CGA and the advisory firm AlixPartners, in this last one year of devastation, the hospitality industry saw 8,560 fewer licensed premises as of 30 April 2021, which is a fall of 7.4% from the numbers in March 2020.

As per the estimates of the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), around 45,000 pubs in the UK have opened on Monday and have reported a sale of 3 million pints, which is still 65% lower than the prepandemic Mondays more than a year ago.

ROSY PICTURE The VoucherCodes.co.uk report has predicted that with this opening and another scheduled on 21 June, the hospitality industry will make a 63.3% increase in sales as compared to the 2020 period, which will be

more or less around £31.236 billion. By the end of this fiscal year, the sector is expected to earn £80.550 billion.

For 2022, the hospitality sector is expected to have an excellent year as people will be vaccinated and are expected to enjoy a year without any more restrictions or lockdowns. The sector is expected to see a sharp rise in sales of £120.564 billion by the end of 2022, almost 50% more than in 2021.

Angus Drummond, the senior director, VoucherCodes.co.uk, explained that Britons are known for their love for pubs, eateries and restaurants.

If everything goes fine in the next few months, the sector is going to bounce back like never before.

RISKS REMAIN Despite the third phase opening, some restrictions are mandatory for table service, a social distancing of at least 1 metre, use of face masks.

The BBPA noted that there are still many pubs that still serve standing customers because of their small size, 5% of the total are closed despite the reopening.

The trade body UKHospitality has highlighted before that government support at this stage is very crucial and if removed, would disrupt businesses in the coming months. CEO Kate Nicholls said there is a notable pent-up demand and bookings, and sales look positive for the summer months. At present, removal of the government Covid-19 support measures will be problematic and may lead to closures and job losses.

The Boris Johnson government has extended a number of sops for the UK hospitality sector, like VAT cut to 5% and the furlough job support scheme till 30 September 2021. The UK has one of the highest VAT rates on the tourism and entertainments sectors.

Nicholls added that until all restrictions are lifted on 21 June, businesses cannot operate fully with the limitations on capacity, serving. The 21 June opening would see the opening of venues, like nightclubs, and removal of restrictions on larger events for the first time since the pandemic broke, killing millions of people across the world.

Mitchells & Butlers Suffers £200m Loss As Lockdown Devastates Sales Sales at Mitchells & Butlers fell 79% in the six months to 10 April, as coronavirus-led restrictions devastated operations at the pub group, which owns Toby Carvery and All Bar One.

Despite the challenging period, CEO Phil Urban said the group was well placed to emerge from the crisis in a competitive position, adding: “We look forward to the removal of remaining trading restrictions in June

The group recorded a loss before tax of £200m in the first half of its financial year, with revenue falling to just £219m for the period, down from nearly £1.04bn during the same period in its previous financial year.

such that the business is able to return again to full and sustainable profitability.”

The group was severely hit by the pandemic and made 1,300 redundancies in 2020, placing 99% of its employees on furlough during closures, and was forced to raise £350m in emergency funding after it was left with just £113m with all facilities drawn in January.

the time including the introduction of regional tiers and eventually a full national lockdown that saw all pubs

The six months were dominated by the effects of Covid-19, with various restrictions taking place during

Lockdown Drinking Trends In 2020 The Wine and Spirit Trade Association’s latest Market Report which gathers alcohol sales data – covering sales in supermarkets, shops and pubs, bars and restaurants – shows consumers were experimenting with new tipples during the pandemic.

In the 12 months to 26th December 2020 the sales of wine from Argentina in UK supermarkets and shops went up a staggering 41% compared to the year before.

Five years ago in 2016, UK wine drinkers bought just under 7 million bottles of Argentinian wine. Last year Brits bought over 50 million bottles.

Wine proved to be a big hit with UK shoppers during 2020 with rosé seeing the biggest uplift in sales compared to 2019, shooting up 22% in volume, with over 113 million bottles sold. This compares to just over 22 million bottles sold in 2016.

Although rosé wine sales have seen a meteoric rise in the last five years sales of red and white wine still remain considerably higher. Last year in shops and supermarkets sold almost 508 million bottles of white wine and close to 434 million bottles of red.

Another notable trend last year was a big increase in the number of

being shut introduced during the timeframe.

RTD’s – for example gin and tonics and cocktails in cans, along with new products like hard seltzers – sold in our supermarkets and shops.

In 2020 Brits spent £412 million, on beverages from Ready to Drink category, up 23% on the previous year. This is almost double the value of RTDs five years ago when the category was worth £234.

Miles Beale, Chief Executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, said: “The latest WSTA Market Report gives us a fascinating insight into what people have been drinking at home during the pandemic. With pubs closed and the opportunity for fun in short supply it appears that people have been looking to break up the mundane by exploring new tastes and tipples.

“This has clearly benefited Argentinian wine makers who had been steadily gaining more UK customers in recent years but made a massive leap in sales last year. Similarly rosé has been on the up in recent years but was given an extra boost in 2020 during the lockdowns and the warm weather. Interestingly the rosé trend continued during the winter months.

“RTDs are another category which has been gaining ground at a rapid rate. Last year consumer curiosity and convenience drove a real boom in the variety of mixed drinks cans on the market, with consumers trying out new drink experiences in smaller packaging.

“With the hospitality sector once again being able to host people indoors from Monday it will be interesting to see if these new home drinking preferences creep into consumers drinking habits when we are back into our favourite pubs and restaurants.”

Joe Turner, category manager for wine at Co-op, said: “Looking at last year, the unfortunate closure of the hospitality industry naturally had an impact on supermarket sales as customers were looking to recreate their favourite tipples at home. The sun was shining for the early part of lockdown, so we saw sales of Rosé wine consistently increase, by at least 47 per cent each week and was the best-selling of the whole Co-op French wine offering during that period. Over the same period, sales of premium Rosé increased by as much as 186 per cent highlighting that people were happier to spend a bit more on one bottle to make the most of at-home drinking occasions. At Co-op, Argentina is the country category that has seen the biggest value growth during the last twelve months, ahead of New Zealand, Chile, Australia, with a YoY increase of over 40 per cent in value sales by the end of last year.”

With plenty of good news for wine and spirit makers who supply supermarkets and shops this is not reflected in the sales data covering UK pubs, bars and restaurants.

The hospitality sector was forced to close for much of last year, and only permitted to re-open under strict restrictions.

It came as a huge blow to the hospitality sector when gearing up for the Christmas trading period, the busiest time of the year, that venues were told they would once again have to close. The losses of missing out on the crucial revenue that the holiday festivities provided were devastating.

Latest figures from the WSTA’s Market Report show that during 2020, sales of both still wine and spirits in the on-trade are down 60% in volume terms on 2019, pre-pandemic levels.

Calls for Chancellor to Cut Beer Duty by 50% Issue 58

CLH Digital

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Britain’s pubs so special.

Trade organisations and spokesperson representing the licensed-on trade, operators and beer drinkers are calling on the Chancellor to cut in duty paid on beer sold on draught at the pump in the UK’s pubs.

Eighty per cent of all drinks sold in Britain’s pubs are beer, so a specific duty cut for draught beer and lager will help secure the future of these national treasures and the local brewers who supply them. Pubs in Britain pay an average of £142,000 a year in taxes, with one pound in every three spent in pubs going on tax.

A coalition of industry trade bodies has written to chancellor, Rishi Sunak, calling for duty on draught beer sold in pubs to be halved, which will save drinkers and average 21p a pint, stimulate job growth and save pubs from potential ruin this summer.

James Calder, chief executive of SIBA, said: “The majority of beer produced by the UK’s independent brewers is sold into pubs. A lower duty rate for draught beer would support the government’s levelling up agenda by investing into communities, supporting wet-led pubs struggling to recover from the pandemic, and brewers, and securing the employment of thousands in hospitality, particularity amongst young people.”

The signatories include the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and UKHospitality (UKH).

The reduction would be limited to pubs, bars, and taprooms, who have been forced to close during the pandemic, as opposed to supermarkets who have continued to operate throughout lockdown, while the hospitality and on trade sector, as well as breweries were forced to pour beer down the drain.

A significant duction in duty of approximately 50% on draught beer duty would encourage people to drink in the pub, creating thousands of jobs in Britain’s pubs and brewing industry, and could mean a saving of over £15,000 for the average pub.

beer sold in bottles and cans in supermarkets. British drinkers pay 54p in duty on a pint of 5% beer, whereas some countries in the EU hey as little as 4p

A cut would also lead to a “Brexit bonus” for the UK’s beleaguered pubs and drinkers, since EU directives previously banned countries from charging a different rate for beer sold on draught in pubs compared to

According to CAMRA, the average price of a pint in a pub is £3.36, compared to just £1.34 from a supermarket. A pint of draught beer or lager is something that cannot be replicated at home and is what makes

Tom Stainer, chief executive of CAMRA, added: “Even prior to covid, beer drinkers were seeing too many of their favourite locals closed for good. A cut in duty on draught beer is the perfect way to help them recover post-covid, as well as encouraging customers to return to the pub, where they can enjoy not only locally-brewed beer, but all the social benefits of drinking in their local with friends and family.”

Chief Executive of UKHospitality Kate Nicholls said the government’s creator regime which takes into account the benefits of the out of home sector, she said: “The last year has been horrific for the pub and hospitality sector. Reducing draught beer duty would be a critical signal, helping us create jobs and generate sustainable economic growth”.

Wet Weather Fails To Drown Out Demand For Indoor Dining

Latest figures from retail experts, Springboard, reveal that footfall in UK retail destinations increased by 4.1% from the week before between 5pm and 12am. The first day of the reopening of indoor hospitality highlighted consumers desire, even in the rain, to return to inside dining.

Up to 5pm yesterday footfall across all retail destinations declined from the same day in the week before by -3%, but from 5pm onwards it rose by +4.1%.

As a consequence over the 24 hours footfall was just -0.2% lower than on the previous Monday.

Of the three destination types, the clear winner was high streets where, from a drop of -1.6% pre 5pm, footfall rose by +5.6% post 5pm ending +1.4% higher than the Monday before.

On a geographic basis, the East Midlands, North and Yorkshire, the South West, Wales and the West Midlands all recorded increases in footfall post 5pm of more than +10% and in three regions rises were in excess of +20%.

In contrast with the rest of the UK, in Central London footfall was stronger

before 5pm than in the evening (+1.3% up to 5pm and -2.8% from 5pm onwards), whilst in regional cities outside of London the reverse was true with a huge rise in footfall in the evening of +22.4%. This pattern of activity also occurred in tourist led towns (coastal and historic towns) and also in market towns, all of which are easy to reach for residents who live nearby.

Diane Wehrle, Insights Director at Springboard commented: “Heavy rain showers acted as somewhat of a dampener on the first day that indoor hospitality reopened up until 5pm. Rather than seeing increases in footfall from last Monday, by 3pm footfall across all UK retail destinations was -2.8% lower than on Monday last week.

However, as the day led in to the evening large parts of the country saw a significant increase in footfall after 5pm underlining the considerable demand for indoor dining. The highlight was that in regional cities and tourist towns footfall increased by as much as 20.2% in some areas of the UK. Greater London was perhaps hardest hit of any destination, with a drop in footfall of -4.4% yesterday in comparison with Monday last week.”

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CLH Digital

Issue 58

Boom Or Bust – It’s Time for the Hospitality Sector to Get Ready for the Roaring Twenties in 2021 “Thriving not diving” should be the new mantra for hospitality businesses as they look ahead to the relaxing of the UK lockdown rules when customers flock back to restaurants and cafes to taste their regained freedom. Iain High, CEO of Anderson Zaks (www.andersonzaks.com), looks at how businesses can prepare to welcome customers back and thrive within the new guidelines.

The recent global disruption has been a bleak time for many businesses, in particular the hospitality and retail sectors. However, many experts, not just statisticians and economists, are forecasting a demand for travel, eating out and entertainment not seen since after the last two world wars.

With the easing of the UK lockdown measures and opening dates being announced, restaurants, pubs and cafes are preparing for a forecasted pent-up demand on a par with the ‘Roaring Twenties’ and post second world war boom.

BOUNCING BACK INTO BUSINESS

society, with encouragement of consumers to use a contactless card (evidenced also in the increased value allowed for contactless payments) changing behaviours further.

Both changes offer significant benefits for staff as well as customers, reducing the amount of contact and risk. Offering pay and order at the table can also help to reduce bill payment errors and streamline service offerings by removing queues at the counter.

WI-FI DROPPED OUT? NO PROBLEM Fortunately there are new, handheld payment devices that can facilitate ordering and paying at the table, ideal for outside service areas or mobile stores. Even if the wi-fi connection drops out in the middle of a field, the latest devices can still process transactions, so you won’t miss a sale. The other great benefit is that as well as offering full menu management and till receipt printing, they can be connected directly to stock control systems.

Gone are the days of having to match a day’s takings at an event or separate service area outside with stock levels. With an integrated system it is all updated automatically, giving a much better handle on the business with accurate stock management and improved cash flow. Plus, you can even reconcile staff tips, since payments can be accounted for and matched to tables, which means happier staff all-round.

PREPARE TO BE DAZZLED

Keen to bounce back from what has been a difficult time for hospitality venues, businesses are looking for ways to increase footfall and sales and welcome customers back. They want to take advantage of the predicted customer freedoms that the new vaccine success promises, within social distancing guidelines. Many are looking for creative, new ways to reach customers with pop-up, drive thru’ and mobile stores, which means also thinking practically about how they will serve customers and enable payment.

There is no doubt that the announcement in March last year to pause on normal life was a necessary action and a shock to us all. Coming to terms with a new way of life and living with a virus seemed a bleak future indeed. But with the successful discovery and rollout of a vaccine and the cautious relaxing of the lockdown measures, the light is at the end of the tunnel - and it’s going to be dazzling.

We can certainly expect social distancing measures to remain in place for a while, which means enabling customers to order food and drink from their table safely is a priority. We have also moved to a near cashless

So as customers start hanging out their smart clothes and dusting off their festival boots, it’s time for businesses in the hospitality sector to start planning too. There really is no time to waste.

Local Lockdowns May Be Considered To Stop Indian Coronavirus Variant Spread

Ministers are said to be considering local lockdown measures to curtail the spread of the Indian variant strain in England as an alternative to delaying the full nationwide lifting of coronavirus measures in June 21, with rumours of a new 4-teir system being introduced again leading to the closure of pubs & restaurants.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned last week that the transmission of COVID variant known as B.1.617.2 could mean “serious disruption” to the planned final exit from lockdown in England on June 21.

However, unconfirmed reports say that Mr Johnson is reluctant to keep the whole country in a longer period of restrictions and health officials are unwilling to redirect vaccines to younger people in affected areas, raising the likelihood of locally-concentrated controls.

After England’s initial coronavirus 2020 lockdown, the Prime minister sought a regional approach to restrictions, which did not work,

leading to two further national lockdowns.

The PM wants a nationwide approach to the easing of restrictions this time, and restated that he hoped restrictions would end across the whole nation in June, despite the local surges in variant cases.

“At the moment I can see nothing that dissuades me from thinking we’ll be able to go ahead on Monday and June 21 everywhere,” he added, referring to further steps to ease lockdown.

Greater Manchester’s Labour Mayor Andy Burnham said in a radio interview that local lockdowns “can’t be the answer” and urged ministers to deliver more vaccines to areas where case rates are highest.

The Conservative leader of Bolton Council, David Greenhalgh, also appealed to the government not to enforce a local lockdown, saying people would simply travel to pubs and restaurants in neighbouring areas.

A Quarter of Curry Restaurants Fear Sales Will Not Return To Pre-Pandemic Levels

A quarter of Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants fear sales will not return to pre- pandemic levels following the lifting of restrictions this month and next, risking a spike in unemployment in Asian communities.

The British Curry awards survey shows that Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants suffered badly during last year’s lockdowns. Seven in eight restaurants saw their sales decline, the vast majority – about 86% – by up to 75% of revenue. More than 42% of restaurants lost between a quarter and half their revenue.

There are concerns this could cause more restaurants to shut.

Closures have been commonplace in recent years because of the shortage of skilled curry chefs. As British palates have become more accustomed to the subtleties of Asian cuisine, so the food has become more sophisticated and the need for more accomplished chefs greater.

The findings add to calls for the appointment of a hospitality minister to support the wider restaurant and pub industry through this crisis.

British Curry Awards founder Enam Ali MBE said:

“The curry industry has been devastated by the pandemic, with thousands of restaurants losing up to three-quarters of their revenue last year. Confidence of recovery is incredibly low and comes after years of restaurants shutting at a rate of at least two a week because of a shortage of skilled chefs. Closures are particularly damaging for Asian people, creating huge pockets of unemployment in Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani communities.

“We now risk far more neighbourhood restaurants shutting their doors for good, wrecking what has been one of the country’s culinary success stories – the sector is worth more than £5bn to the UK economy. To save the great British tikka masala, we need support. The appointment of a dedicated hospitality minister focused on a strategy to guide us through the recovery would be a huge first step.”

No Return for Eat Out To Help Out says Chancellor Issue 58

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has indicated that there will be no return for the Eat Out To Help Out scheme this s summer.

The chancellor said he is “proud” of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme from last summer but signalled that another similar scheme would not be needed again.

Mr Sunak said that the Government “doesn’t have the same concern we had a year ago” about how people would react when restrictions were eased last summer.

At the end of the lockdown in 2020 the Government launched a scheme giving everyone half off meals in pubs and restaurants - in a bid to boost the economy.

The august 2020 Eat Out to Help Out scheme enabled restaurants, cafés, pubs to offer a discount to customers dining in their outlet and obtain a reimbursement from HMRC, with more than 49,000 businesses

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claiming £849m through the scheme during August 2020.

"Last year we were worried about whether once things reopened people would get out there and spend,” he said.

He added: “There was a lot of information, talk, and polling and behavioural studies – people were very anxious, so we weren't sure that even once things were open that they would get back to doing things that they love doing, whether it's going for a meal, go shopping, seeing their friends.

"And that's why we were a little bit interested in trying to incentivize that behaviour last time.

"I think this time around, we know now, both from our experience and from looking around the world, that actually, once you reopen things it seems that people will get out there and do what they do best, which is, go have fun. So, I think we've probably a less role really for government to encourage or incentivize that."

Oxfordshire Pub Offers Post-Lockdown Lifeline To Locals Dan said: “This room provides a great environment for our regulars to come in and have a coffee and get a book to read. The library and IT hub will be really important in helping many local residents to socialise after such a long period of isolation and lockdown.

Oxfordshire publican Dan Redfern is opening a library and IT hub at his pub The Cherry Tree Inn in Stoke Row to help support local residents as the country moves out of lockdown.

Dan Redfern, who runs the Brakspear pub with his partner Natalie Redfern, decided to transform a small room into the library, with the help and a Community Services Fund grant from Pub is The Hub, the not-for-profit organisation that helps pubs to diversify and provide essential local services.

He added: “Since we took on the pub in 2018 we have become the hub of this local area offering excellent food and drink as well as a place for our locals to meet and socialise. We are also planning to offer IT help to local retired residents as well as coffee mornings and even a small cinema when restrictions allow.

The couple stepped in to host the library at The Cherry Tree Inn after a number of local residents asked if it could be moved from the village hall to allow for greater access and longer opening hours. The village hall was only open at certain times meaning access to the library was restricted.

The new library and IT hub, which will open on 17 May, when Government restrictions are eased, has over 300 books including around 60 specialist cookery and gardening books donated by Dan and his chef Matthew Allen.

The IT hub will enable local residents and visitors to get online with a

Pub is The Hub advisor Bill Affleck said: “This library and IT hub will be an important asset for the village, especially as we return to more normality after lockdown. It will allow people to connect both socially and online.

“Dan and Natalie have really helped people in the local area and have more exciting plans for the pub moving forward.” designated iPad and volunteers will give help and advice for those who are not IT savvy.

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The pub has seen residents flocking back after it reopened on 12 April with an outside marquee allowing for people to return to the pub to enjoy a meal or a drink in a Covid secure manner.

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Issue 58

5 Ways To Make Your Accommodation More Accessible should be lined by a visual aid, such as tape, to mark it.

As staycations are set to boom this summer, now is the perfect time to prepare your accommodation for new guests. Here, Alison Hughes, Interiors Director from Coast Road Furniture (www.coastroadfurniture.co.uk) shares her tips for making your accommodation more accessible.

CONSIDER ACCESSIBLE FURNITURE Adjustable furniture is the best option for bedrooms and reception areas, as these pieces can be adapted to meet the needs of each specific guest. For example, specialised reclining chairs can be controlled using a remote, and can tilt forwards and backwards to make it easier for elderly or disabled guests to sit down or stand up. Some also have grab handles at the ends of armrests, to provide a bit of extra assistance.

The Equality Act 2010 has made it a legal requirement for all facilities that offer goods and services to the public, including accommodation, to ensure that their setting is as inclusive as possible. That means that whether you run a hotel, B&B, guest house, or self-catering accommodation, it's vital that you have systems in place to ensure every guest can move around freely and comfortably. Doing so not only means you can adhere to regulations, but guests will be more likely to choose your business over those with fewer facilities, so there are plenty of reasons to improve the accessibility of your establishment.

In bedrooms, motorised bed frames can be adjusted to help alleviate back pain. Plus, they can be raised so guests can sit up in bed while still being supported by their mattress.

DON'T FORGET COMMUNICATION

To help you get started, below I'll be giving you my five tips for making your accommodation more accessible.

OPEN EVERYTHING UP Narrow corridors and doorways can make moving around your accommodation difficult for those with limited mobility. Opting for an open plan layout for reception areas, such as your check-in and dining areas, as well as all living areas in self-catered accommodation, makes it much easier for residents to move between the two. It's also a good idea to widen corridors and doorways to make it easier for wheelchairs to move through freely. All corridors should be wide enough for a wheelchair to turn around in (around 2m), and the same goes for bathrooms.

Bathrooms should adhere to the appropriate building regulations, and any bathroom amenities, including sink basins and towel rails, need to be at a comfortable height for wheelchair users too. If you can't change the

layout of all of your bathrooms or lodgings, it can help to dedicate a handful to disabled amenities and leave the rest as they are.

MAKE SURFACES ACCESSIBLE

While updating your furniture and facilities are vital for accessibility, you should also consider your communication resources. Remember that not all of your guests will be well-versed in technology, so having both print and web-based information is a must. Any information packs, such as leaflets and brochures, should have audio and braille options available, and wall signs should also be written in braille.

To make your accommodation more easily accessible to guests with mobility issues or those who use a wheelchair, it's important that you limit the number of steps you have around the building. This includes converting small steps into ramps and installing lifts to get to other floors.

Your website should be fully accessible too. Any images and links should have descriptive names so those with screen readers can navigate the page fully. You'll also need to double check your colour contrast to ensure that all text is easily readable, even for those with colour-blindness or other sight disabilities. You can test your website's colour scheme using a colour-blindness filter such as this one from Toptal.

Ideally, all internal and external surfaces should be made from a smooth material, and should be level wherever possible. Any areas with a gradient steeper than 1:20 should be designed as a ramp and the edge

With the UK staycation set to be big this year, this is great news for your accommodation. By following my top tips above, you can make your accommodation more accessible.

Sadiq Khan Launches London Eats Campaign Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, has launched the London Eats campaign to celebrate London’s best culinary offerings.

The inaugural stage of the mayor’s year-long Let’s Do London campaign, London Eats features street food and fine dining, food markets and drinks festivals, exclusive interviews, food trails, tube announcements, and restaurant unveilings.

As Covid restrictions ease, with the government continuing with the roadmap but asking the public to be mindful of the ongoing pressures of the virus and new strains, and AS more restaurants open up, the Mayor Sadiq Khan was joined by celebrity chefs and successful restaurateurs, Monica Galetti and Angela Hartnett MBE at Geoff Leong’s Chinatown restaurant Dumplings’ Legend, to launch this food-focused part of his Let’s Do London campaign to promote central London and protect jobs in the capital.

London Eats sees the coming together of some of London’s most famous chefs, hospitality venues and foodies to share their hidden gems, foodie trails and the must-try bars and restaurants they’re excited to get back to as London comes alive again over the summer. The series of insider tips features Indian-born British chef Asma Khan, French maître d’hôtel and star of Channel 4’s First Dates Fred Sirieix

and Masterchef judge Monica Galetti as they highlight the huge variety of food on offer in the capital.

The Mayor has launched his Let’s Do London campaign in response to the huge challenges faced by central London’s hospitality and cultural industry because of the impact of the pandemic. Recent City Hall analysis of forecasts by VisitBritain showed that consumer spending in central London by overseas tourists was £7.4 billion lower throughout 2020, while domestic tourists will have spent £3.5 billion less.

Pre-pandemic, the hospitality sector employed nearly 3.2m people UK-wide, with nearly 18 per cent of jobs based in London, providing work for 568,000 Londoners – or 10 per cent of London’s employment. Data from 2017 shows that nationally the hospitality sector generated £72bn in Gross Value Added to the UK economy, with businesses in London accounting for £16.7bn – considerably more than any other region in the UK. The Let’s Do London campaign and events programme is bringing together the capital’s world-leading hospitality, culture, nightlife and retail venues to promote all London has to offer. The blockbuster events programme will run during all four seasons this year – kicking off with the capital’s famous chefs, foodies and hospitality venues coming together to promote and celebrate London’s unbeatable food scene as part of London Eats.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m proud to be launching London Eats as part of my Let’s Do London campaign – the biggest domestic tourism campaign the capital has ever seen.

“The hospitality sector has been one of the hardest hit by the impact of the pandemic with too many jobs lost and under threat. As the

Government continues with the roadmap and more businesses are able to open up, we are joining with famous chefs, foodies and hospitality venues to celebrate our city’s world-renowned industry. Together we will be sharing our favourite places to eat and drink in London and highlighting the huge range of exciting events and openings that will be taking place this summer.

“There is no doubt that our capital has the greatest food and drink offer in the world, and I’m proud to be getting the message out to Londoners and people across the country that the capital is ready and waiting to welcome you safely once again.”

Chef and restaurateur, Angela Hartnett MBE, added: “These past 18 months have been some of the toughest our industry has ever faced, so I’m pleased to be supporting a campaign that is promoting a reinvigoration of tourism in the heart of the city. The experience of dining out is one that so many of us have greatly missed, particularly in London where there are endless opportunities to experience a plethora of food and drink, whether it’s at a Michelin starred restaurant or an understated but delicious street food joint. I, along with my fellow restaurateurs, can’t wait to welcome customers through our doors.

Let’s Do London.”

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said: “After a year of crisis in hospitality, London Eats is just the boost we need, to remind people that it’s safe to come to London and enjoy the best gastronomy that the planet has to offer. London now has hundreds more reasons to visit, with something for everyone – you may not be able to travel around the globe but you can transport yourself through eating out across the capital. London has it all on a plate, and now it’s serving it up for everyone.”

Pubs Rates Relief In Sight As VOA Joins Forces with The Forum of British Pubs The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has engaged with pub representative organisation, the Forum of British Pubs (FBP) to ensure that pubs, both tied and free of tie, benefit from accurate business rates, having taken into account current trading conditions and the pandemic impact.

Speaking on behalf of the Forum of British Pubs, Dave Mountford said, “We are pleased that the VOA has recognised our growing influence with publicans, both tied and free of tie and have approached us to help reach our members and encourage them to provide information to support the ongoing revaluation of business rates. We are also providing them with feedback on the issues our members face and longer-term hope we will be able to work with them to create a more level playing field within the industry.

The Forum have made it clear that we view the system as being unbalanced and needing serious changes to work properly. In order to make these changes, we need to be working with the organisations like the VOA and we are proud to be the only true tenant representative group that have been approached to work with them.”

The VOA undertakes valuations of businesses to establish fair assessment for Business Rates purposes. One of the most impacted sectors as a consequence of the pandemic lockdowns is the pub industry, with a material reduction in sales turnover for many, which the FBP are committed to ensure is reflected in the rates charged.

Alan Colston, Chief Valuer at the VOA, said, “We’re really pleased to be working with organisations like the Forum of British Pubs and are thankful for their support. We know the pandemic has had a significant impact on many businesses, including pubs. We need to do everything we can to make sure this is reflected at the 2023 revaluation and we have as much evidence as possible about the property market. That’s why it’s really important that pubs submit their up-to-date rental and turnover information to make sure their rateable value and the business rates they’re charged are accurate.”

Members of the FBP are being encouraged to provide the details requested by the VOA promptly when approached.

Celebrate Great British Beer and Pubs By Getting Back Down The Local, Urge CAMRA Issue 58

CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, is urging people across the country to support their local and get back down the pub from today.

As restrictions ease and indoor opening resumes across England, the consumer organisation is asking as many people as possible to use their local pubs and social clubs, and to choose drinks from local and independent brewers and cider producers, to help local businesses recover from the pandemic.

Commenting, CAMRA National Chairman Nik Antona said: “Pubs matter and are a vital part of our communities up and down the country. As we mark the next milestone in the lifting of lockdown, I’m urging everyone who can to get back down to their local pub, social club or brewery taproom.

“People are really looking forward to socialising safely without being subject to notorious British weather, as well as enjoying all the social and wellbeing benefits of having a pint at the local.

“It is also vital that we give as much support as possible to local breweries and cider producers as well as to our pubs so that they can survive and thrive after an exceptionally dif-

CLH Digital

ficult year.

“For those going back to the pub today please to be patient and courteous with pub staff who are doing their jobs in difficult circumstances and with a few extra rules than we are used to when we visit our local.

“Whilst indoor opening today is a significant step in the right direction, many pubs will still struggle to make ends meet due to restrictions on the amount of customers they can serve. We are urging the Government to commit to lifting all remaining restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so, so that we can see a return to pubs operating at full capacity, with customers jostling for space and being able to chat with friendly faces while perched on a stool at the end of the bar.

“If further restrictions aren’t lifted on 21st June then the Government must provide more financial support until our pubs can trade without restrictions. CAMRA is also calling on the Treasury to cut tax on draught beer served in pubs to help encourage pub-going and give our locals a better chance to compete with cheaper supermarket alcohol in the months and years ahead.”

Hospitality Action Releases 2020 Impact Report we still remain unable to plan many fundraising events which have traditionally been the backbone of our fundraising programme. We need to raise every penny we spend on grant-giving ourselves.

“I’m immensely proud of my team and the fantastic industry whose generosity and trust gave us the platform to achieve what we have in the last year.

In 2020 Hospitality Action spent £1.36m and awarded 4,698 grants, compared with £733,000 on 2,282 grants in 2019. So far in 2021 Hospitality Action has given £300,000 in grants to over 1,000 beneficiaries. Around 95% of the grants expenditure was to help with poverty alleviation due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I sincerely hope we’re past the worst the pandemic can throw at us and we’re as excited as you are to see the industry re-open. But one thing is crystal clear to me, for as long as you’ll keep supporting us, we’ll keep helping hospitality people impacted by Covid-19 or whatever as yet unknown, curveballs life has in store for them.”

Mark Lewis, chief executive of Hospitality Action, commented: “Hospitality Action receives no government funding. And, due to ongoing social distancing regulations,

Read the report at https://www.hospitalityaction.org.uk/media/2638/hospitalityaction-2020-impact-report.pdf

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Hospitality Action has released its 2020 Impact Report which showcases how the charity has helped vulnerable people cope with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Issue 58

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6 Pubs A Week Demolished Or Converted During Pandemic communities that they once served.

to keep the ‘pilot light on’ for their reopening.”

Around 6 pubs each week, during the pandemic, ‘vanished’ having either been demolished and/or converted into other types of use such as homes and offices.

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According to the real estate adviser Altus Group, when Prime Minister Boris Johnson instructed pubs, restaurants and cafes to close on 20th March last year to try and prevent the spread of coronavirus, at the start of first national lockdown, there were 40,886 pubs in England and Wales including those vacant and being offered to let.

With pubs in both England and Wales reopening indoors on Monday, despite 3 national lockdowns and tiered local restrictions during the last 14 months, that number has only fallen marginally by 1% to 40,502 according to Altus Group.

With lockdown rules easing across much of the UK earlier this week, pubs have proved remarkably resilient despite bearing the brunt of national and local restrictions but 384 have ‘vanished’ for good from the

Robert Hayton, UK President of Expert Services at Altus Group, says “pubs have endured a torrid time during the pandemic but have proved remarkably resilient aided by Government interventions such as furlough, grants, rates relief and liquidity in the form of cheap loans helping

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The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced at the Spring Budget earlier in the year a £150 million financial lifeline through a new Community Ownership Fund to try and help communities protect their favourite local pubs from demolition and redevelopment.

Delivery and Click & Collect Accounted for 44% of Out of Home Occasions In Q1 2021

According to the latest Lumina Intelligence quarterly Eating & Drinking Out Panel report, delivery and click & collect (C&C) accounted for 44% of all out of home (OOH) occasions in Q1 2021 – up from 42% in Q4 2020.

Both the quick service restaurant (QSR) and restaurant channels increased their share of delivery and C&C occasions. The QSR channel grew share by 20ppts, from 38.8% in Q4 2020 to 58.4% in Q1 2021 and the restaurant channel saw an increase of 8ppts, from 10.6% to 18.8%.

In comparison, the coffee and sandwich shop channel saw its share of delivery and C&C halve, from 29.3% in Q4 2020 to 14.7% in Q1 2021.

Dinner and lunch day parts both increased their share of delivery and C&C occasions at the expense of drinks only and brunch. However, average spend on delivery fell -3.5% in Q1 2021, from £12.78 to £12.33.

Overall, across the whole eating out market, total spend fell -6.7% in the

latest 12 weeks. On premise purchasing, limited to takeaway, remained suppressed. However, eating out penetration was 41% in the quarter and is slowly rising as restrictions begin to ease.

Commenting on the results, Insight Director at Lumina Intelligence, Blonnie Whist, said, “With OOH opportunities curtailed by restrictions throughout Q1 2021, it is unsurprising that delivery and C&C continue to dominate and average spend remains subdued. However, with restrictions beginning to ease towards the end of Q1, we see some green shoots appearing. Participation increased by 10pp throughout the quarter and dinner and lunch are growing their share of occasions, indicating that appetite for eating out is increasing and will continue to do so as restrictions ease further and the vaccine rollout continues at pace.”

Find out more about Lumina Intelligence’s Eating & Drinking Out Panel at www.lumina-intelligence.com/product/eating-and-drinking-out-panel/

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Why the Hospitality Sector Needs to “Retire Retirement” and Instead Start Encouraging Employees to Rethink Their Lifestyle Goals 12

CLH Digital

Issue 58

By Michael Middleton, director with Pro-Vision Lifestyles (www.pro-visionlifestyles.com) The pandemic has not been kind to the hospitality sector. The sector has lost £80.8bn of sales in the 12 months according to the UK Hospitality Quarterly Tracker and it is estimated that many employers have had to furlough 90% of their staff. Inevitably those of an older age have perhaps had to delay their retirement or, even and in some cases, brought it forward.

In addition, ahead of further lock down easing this week the hospitality sector is struggling to recruit employees. This has prompted many organisations to engage ambitious recruitment drives to attract young staff to the sector, and into permanent as opposed to part time roles.

It is becoming increasingly important that employers in the hospitality sector are vocal in their positive culture, and show that they are supporting and addressing the concerns of their staff across all ages. One of the conversations many employers in the sector should be having with their employees, and even themselves, is what their future is within the business and indeed in their later years. This is a key area for businesses to help their employees address. Helping people think about and plan their whole life has the added benefits of not just improving their wellbeing, but also helping the business keep them employed in a useful role, whether part time, which suits many employees in the sector, or full time.

RETHINKING RETIREMENT Generally people are not good with change, especially changes that are enforced. Clearly the last year with lockdowns, furlough, redundancy and continued uncertainty over the economy has caused a lot of people in hospitality a considerable degree of emotional turmoil.

Retirement is a 130-year-old concept that is long past its sell-by date yet it remains something people strive for throughout their working lives, almost as a rite of passage. The reality of retirement rarely turns out to be what we expect. Realising that “retirement” is a gradual process not an abrupt end is essential, and employers have a huge role to play. From the moment we join the workforce we are bombarded with messages urging us

to save for retirement, but never to plan for what we want. Too often the transition proves difficult and causes health issues, the first a battle against depression caused by the sense of the loss of status and purpose when a career ends.

Of increasing concern to businesses is the level of expertise that is being lost from Boomers and soon Gen X’ers reaching retirement age. This issue can easily be addressed by HR and training teams providing support focussed on phased ‘retirement’ options and the non-financial aspects of retirement planning.

These issues are not the sole preserve of older employees, but something younger people need to be aware of. The problem stems from how we are taught to see life’s stages and that once we reach a certain age we are of less value to our organisations and need to prepare for the last part of our life. This conjures up images of being old, frail and dying. As does saving for retirement, it is as though by saving we will hasten the event.

We should not deny the fact that life ends, for all of us. However, life for the over 60’s can be the time of our lives; this is a message we should be encouraging younger people to consider.

With improvements in health and lifespan substantial numbers of today’s young will not want to stop work or even slow down until they are much older. Hospitality skills, like fine wine, improve with age and experience. There is much to look forward to; the sector benefits enormously from older part time employees.

Discussions that look at easing out of full time employment and embracing employment on a partial basis will be crucial.

How many employees see their pension as the employers’ obligation and are not engaged with the process?

It is time to help people see their pension as an enabler of their future… and their future as something to look forward to. It is not a difficult problem to crack. For instance, running a series of workshops to help people discover more about themselves and how they want to spend their futures is a good way to improve engagement with the company pension and also a good forum to discuss how people can work more flexibly as they get older.

Companies need to rethink how they see retirement and encourage their employees to see it as an opportunity to discover what they really want out of later life.

Michael Middleton is a director with Pro-Vision Lifestyles (www.pro-visionlifestyles.com) and a financial advisor with 30+ years’ experience. He has helped 100s of people to turn their “retirement” into the most the most fulfilling phase of their working lives!

New Barclays Corporate Banking Report Shows How The UK Hospitality and Leisure Sector Is Ready To ‘Bounce Back’ person. The launch of digital membership allowed the gym to retain a connection with its members.

Barclays Corporate Banking launches a new report today which looks at how the hospitality sector plans to return to prosperity following the opening of indoor spaces. The report, Bouncing Back, is filled with insight from CEOs of some of the UK’s most prominent H&L operators and details measures they have put in place to overcome lockdown challenges.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL • Steve Hemsworth, Founding Partner and Managing Director of UKbased Golfbreaks, says the firm adapted its business model to focus far more on domestic breaks, offsetting the international travel ban.

The report features interviews with businesses leaders from eight sub-sectors of the leisure industry, offering first-hand accounts of the changes they’ve made to their business amidst the pandemic. Highlights include:

SPORT • Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of Northampton Saints rugby team, says the shift to focus on online kit sales, rather than match day sales, has been one excellent result amid a reinvention of the club’s marketing strategy. Restricted – External

HOTELS • Tony Story, CEO at Kingsmill Hotels, explains how the business used the period of forced closure to carry out upgrades. Solar panels have been installed, electric-car charging ports are now in place and there were extensions to their outdoor areas to maximise capacity for when restrictions lifted.

CARAVAN PARKS • Miranda Jacobs, Director of Waterside Holiday Group, reveals how her sites offered replacement outdoor activities to replace indoor entertainment. They also invested in a beachside food and bar outlet to generate extra revenue.

RESTAURANTS AND LICENSED TRADE

LEISURE OPERATORS

• Andy Laurillard, CEO of Giggling Squid, talks about how the restaurant chain capitalised on the booming takeaway economy, partnering with Deliveroo to help them upscale at a rapid pace.

• Anne Ackford, CEO of Brighton Pier, comments on how the business is placing extra emphasis on safety by putting safety videos and chats with managers on their website. The Pier is also now collecting customer details as part of a more targeted marketing approach, encouraging people to visit rather than relying on organic footfall.

Cinemas • Justin Ribbons, CEO of Empire Cinemas and Tivoli, has launched a campaign, ’10 ways to make you safer’, providing Covid-specific training to staff as well as creating measures like one-way systems throughout all cinemas.

Health & Fitness • Sophie Lawlor, CEO of Total Fitness, says the company has learned how people now want to experience their fitness both digitally and in

Mike Saul, Head of Hospitality and Leisure at Barclays Corporate Banking, commented: “The majority of businesses in the UK have had to adapt their models over the past year, but none more so than those in the hospitality and leisure sector. Our new report contains fascinating insight for businesses looking to make the most of the challenging landscape they’re operating in, and will also provide inspiration on how to thrive when lockdown conditions ease further.”

The report can be viewed at www.barclayscorporate.com/insights/industry-expertise/hospitality-andleisure-bouncing-back/

Update Hospitality Risk Assessments as Pandemic Restrictions Ease 14

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Issue 58

By Rob Biddlecombe, a specialist in environmental, safety and health law at Squire Patton Boggs (www.squirepattonboggs.com) After months of lockdown, customers are naturally excited by the prospect of being able to return to socialise in pubs. However, what steps should be taken by pub licensees/designated premises supervisors to prevent exuberant behaviour from escalating to a point when people’s safety is threatened?

Earlier this month, three people were injured, including two women who received serious burns, after an explosion involving a gas heater in the beer garden of the King’s Head in Great Cornard, Suffolk. It has been alleged that an intoxicated customer kept filling the heater with ethanol and eventually sprayed ethanol from a spare bottle on to the heater’s naked flame as a prank, causing the bottle to explode. A statement on the pub’s Facebook page stated that the heater was not one supplied by the pub, and was brought on to the premises without their knowledge.

Under the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974, employers have a duty to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their employees and also of anyone else who may be affected by the employer’s business, such as visitors. Risk assessment is the cornerstone to effective health and safety. In fact, employers are required under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 to assess the risk posed to their employees at work and to others who may be affected by the employer’s business, and to put appropriate control measures in place. In other words, although pub operators are not expected to produce risk-free environments for staff and customers, they are expected to reduce foreseeable risks as low as reasonably practicable. It is a criminal offence not to comply with health and safety law.

Clearly, not all risks to health and safety will be foreseeable to licensees, but the risk posed by the actions of intoxicated customers should be. It is incumbent on licensees to have arrangements in place both inside and outside of the building to identify individuals who may be posing a risk to others. Depending on the type of establishment and its location, this may not necessarily require a door supervisor on the entrance or CCTV covering every possible inch of the premises, but it is likely to require staff to actively monitor behaviour and be prepared to

take proportionate action to reduce the risk, rather than simply ignoring it.

It is also worth remembering that the sale of alcohol to a drunk person is an offence under the Licensing Act 2003; and that licence holders must promote public safety and the prevention of crime and disorder (as two of the licensing objectives). Where these objectives are undermined, this could be grounds for a review of the premises licence, which could ultimately result in suspension or even revocation of the licence.

Supervision and management of customers is an important part of ensuring licence compliance and there may, of course, be specific licence conditions requiring CCTV, door supervision and/or regular clearing of glasses, particularly in outdoor areas.

Leadership is a key aspect of health and safety management and the direction set by the licensee is essential; they must lead by example and staff should be confident that they know what to do if they become aware of a customer who is posing a risk to others.

Clearly, no licensee wishes their customers to feel as if they are constantly under surveillance and cannot relax, but a balance must be struck so that they also feel safe and can enjoy the easing of restrictions.

Changes to operation brought about by the pandemic, such as greater use of outdoor areas by customers, should be considered as part of updated risk assessments on reopening, alongside the typical risks associated with licensed premises, to help strike that balance.

Pub Is The Hub: New Research Highlights The Social Value Publicans and Pubs Create

By Providing Local Services grant of £3,000 from the Community Services Fund could potentially create over £27,000 in social value to a local area.

The Community Services Fund, which was started in 2013, offers small grants to help pubs diversify and has already supported over 160 pubs to provide more than 30 different types of services including village stores, Post Offices, allotments, community cafés and libraries.

Further projects are currently in the pipeline or awaiting funding provision.

The 25 Covid response pub projects analysed in the evaluation included village stores, communitycafés and takeaways, food delivery services, IT and information hubs, a bakery, a workshop and community gardens.

The evaluation analysed various outcomes such as the impact that the projects had on helping support older, disabled and vulnerable people and how publicans worked collectively with local organisations to help reduce isolation and tackle social needs.

The social value that pubs and publicans created by providing local services during the first Covid-19 lockdown has been unveiled in a new report from Pub is The Hub, the not-for-profit organisation that helps pubs to diversify and provide essential local services.

The report called ‘The Social Value of Pubs and Publicans providing Services in their Communities’ has for the first time measured the social value impact of pub services. Social value looks at the broad effects that an organisation is achieving with its work and takes into account the wider social, economic and environmental wellbeing benefits that a service or project can bring to an area.

Pubs and publicans ensured that essential services remained accessible to local residents at the heart of their communities during the Covid-19 lockdowns and they will be crucial in helping communities rebuild as the pub sector reopens.

The evaluation undertaken by Cornwall Rural Community Charity, which is experienced in measuring social value, found that for every £1 spent on a project through the Pub is The Hub Community Services Fund, in the first lockdown, between £8.98 and £9.24 of social value was created.

This illustrates that one suitable pub diversification project with a

THE IMPORTANCE OF PUBS John Longden, chief executive of Pub is The Hub, said: “It proves how vital these services have been during the pandemic. Covid-19 has rein-

forced the importance of pubs and good publicans in helping local people.

He added: “Publicans were often the first in their community to rise to the challenges and recognisethe issues local residents were facing.

The important social impact of publicans’ responses to local needs has often been essential to get people through the pandemic.

“As the market fully reopens publicans and pubs are going to be crucial in helping local areas rebuild as well as aiding Government priorities for economic recovery.”

Cornwall Rural Community Charity, development and evaluation manager, Gemma Finnegan, who independently conducted the research, said: “We are very proud of this piece of work that has highlighted the important social value of pub services during the first lockdown.

"This is the first time that social value methodology has been applied to pub diversification projects and the results have been really positive, demonstrating the wider role publicans and pubs play in their communities.

“What is interesting is the major impact that Pub is The Hub projects have had in local areas and communities with only a small grant.”

Hospitality Hiring Rebounds But Growth at Risk as Applicant Numbers Tumble 16

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The year-on-year figures show a significant decline, with the number of applications dropping 82% when compared to April 2020. When compared with pre-pandemic levels, APV numbers dropped 57% between February 2020 and April 2021. This is indicative of the hospitality arena not only losing workers to other, more stable, sectors in the last year, but also the impact of Brexit on hospitality, with fewer international staff choosing to remain in or travel to the UK.

Rumours around the easing of restrictions for hospitality boosted recruitment in the sector in April, but application numbers have fallen sharply as workers turn their back on the sector in favour of more secure job opportunities, according to the latest real-time statistics from Broadbean Technology.

Hospitality hiring rebounds According to the data, vacancies in hospitality spiked 77% month-onmonth in April as the feasibility of Covid-restrictions being eased began to be realised. This marked the highest level of hospitality recruitment since the pandemic began in March 2020, with last month’s vacancy numbers up 22% when compared to the spike noted in September as the initial re-opening of the hospitality sector began.

However, the statistics show that the sector still has a long way to go to reach pre-Covid levels, with job vacancies down 48% for April 2021 when compared to February 2020.

Application numbers dwindle as hospitality faces staffing shortages The data also suggest the sector could be facing a shortage of staff, with application numbers down significantly for April. Month-on-month,

the number of applicants per vacancy (APV) fell 62% for hospitality roles, with an average of 19 applications submitted for each role last month.

Alex Fourlis, Managing Director at Broadbean Technology commented: “Hospitality has been one of the hardest hit sectors during the pandemic and this spike in vacancies is an encouraging sign that the UK is gradually begin to return to ‘normal’. With the Prime Minister announcing plans to further ease restrictions from May 17th we are forecasting even higher job numbers in May. The decline in application numbers is, however, a concern and could hinder the growth of the hospitality sector in the immediate future. Understandably, a number of individuals have chosen to exit the sector as work dried up and businesses now face the challenge of enticing them back. Perhaps more concerningly, though, this drop in applications follows the UK’s exit from the EU and potentially suggests that Brexit has had a long-lasting impact on hospitality.”

Heineken Launches Super Pint Campaign Celebrating Sustainability In The On Trade

HEINEKEN UK has revealed its new Super Pint campaign, celebrating the Green Pint pubs across the UK serving more sustainable, energy-saving pints Pubs from across the UK, with the support of this campaign, will be able to shout about their green credentials and educate and inspire consumers to make conscious decisions about the pints they drink Over the past seven years, the impact of Green Pint pubs that use SmartDispense technology has resulted in 107m pints of water, and 394 tonnes of CO2 saved collectively[1] HEINEKEN UK has launched a new awareness-driving campaign for its Green Pint pubs, to help pubgoers understand that they can choose a more sustainable pint. The Super Pint campaign will hero the operators that use SmartDispense technology to serve greener, more sustainable, consistent quality pints.

With 79% of consumerschanging their purchase preference based on sustainability[2], pubs across the UK will now be able to shout about their sustainable Green Pint credentials, the Super Pints they are serving and the savings they are making for the planet.

HEINEKEN will be driving potential customers to find and seek their nearest Green Pint pub on the ‘Green Pint map’, hosted on Useyourlocal.com.

Participating operators have also received Green Pint window stickers and access to a digital toolkit filled with social media assets to help them tell their customers all about the Super Pints that they serve.

past seven years[3]. That’s the equivalent of almost 340,000 full bathtubs full of water[4] saved, just by enjoying a sustainable pint from a Green Pint pub.

A Green Pint pub powered by HEINEKEN’s SmartDispenseTMtechnology saves 83% of water compared to a pub using a standard dispense system[5], whilst ensuring their customer gets a perfectly poured pint served at sub-5°C every single time.

Richard Stephens, Head of Technical Services at HEINEKEN UK said: “As consumers we are making more and more sustainable purchase decisions. However, when we think of these purchases we’ll often think of cars, clothes or groceries, but perhaps not our choice of pub. Our Green Pint pubs, powered by SmartDispense technology, are at the forefront of the latest innovation in sustainability and waste reduction, saving them time, energy and waste. We want to help our customers tell their consumers about the sustainable choices they’re making as a business, and we think our Super Pint campaign is the platform to do so.”

Since its launch in 2013, SmartDispense draught technology has revolutionised the way draught beer and cider is stored and served in pubs and bars across the UK. Connecting dispense technology with service and insights needed to improve quality, reduce waste and save time, it’s an award-winning total business solution for operators.

To find out how you can become a Green Pint pub and discover how operators like you are doing their bit for the planet whilst serving consistent, great quality pints, visit: https://smartdispense.heineken.co.uk/green-pint

Green Pint pubs have collectively saved an incredible 107m pints of water and 394 tonnes of CO2 in the

Tyrrells Serves Up Boost For Pubs with £40,000 Pub Garden Makeover Promotion KP Snacks, the no.1 supplier of Bagged Snacks in pubs and bars and its premium snack brand Tyrrells, are proud to support British pubs this summer with the launch of a brand new competition offering pubs the opportunity to win one of four £10,000 garden makeovers.

Matt Collins, Trading Director at KP Snacks adds: “As we look ahead to the summer and to restrictions lifting, there is a feeling of positivity and excitement among both pubs and pub-goers, with ‘starved’ consumers returning with a vengeance! We know that 52% of customers purchase snacks on impulse and we want to turn these impulse opportunities into incremental snack sales for pubs and bars. While snacks won’t replace meal occasions, they do offer pubs and bars the opportunity to trade up drinks-only visits, with pre-packaged snacks delivering a quick and safe solution for customers”.

The £40,000 pub garden makeover competition, which launches on 3 May, will see four lucky winners receive £5,000 worth of Tyrrells branded pub garden merchandise alongside a £5,000 garden makeover donation, to spend on whatever their garden needs most. With branded parasols, planters, blankets and bean bags up for grabs, the Tyrrells pub garden makeover merchandise will help any pub garden look more inspiring and inviting this summer. 10 cases of 40g Tyrrells Crisps for five runners up will also be available.

Sarah Lawson, Marketing Manager at Tyrrells says: “It’s been a hugely challenging year for the whole country and particularly for pubs. At Tyrrells, we want to do our bit to help pubs get back on their feet and what better way to do this than celebrate the great British pub and beer garden. Pubs are at heart of the community which is something we’re really proud to support.

“Tyrrells is a quintessentially British premium crisp brand that prides itself on producing the best quality premium hand cooked crisps on the market. With consumers choosing more premium snacks and trading up, we have the perfect brand to support British pubs on their journey to rebuilding and growing profitable sales”.

Tyrrells pride themselves on quality, English provenance and authentic ingredients attracting consumers all over the UK. The range also includes vegetable crisps alongside its most known Hand Cooked potato crisp range. With a £53.9m RSV, the brand is growing in value +10.1%[3] MAT in the UK. With an impressive 86 Great Taste Awards across the range, Tyrrells crisps are the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer or glass of wine when out relaxing, socialising and reacquainting with friends at the pub.

Having an attractive outdoor seating area is one of the biggest draws for people as the weather gets warmer with research showing that over half of drinkers (55%) say the pub garden is their favourite place for a pint during the summer. Keeping this in mind and featuring the Tyrrells flagship tagline ‘Tyrrellbly Tyrrellbly Tasty’, the initiative aims to support the On Trade Channel recover and drive sales by helping pubs maximise their outdoor spaces.

The competition is open for entry from Monday 3 May to Monday 14 June, with competition entry available at https://www.tyrrellscrisps.co.uk/pubgarden To qualify, pubs need to purchase three cases of Tyrrells 40g crisps, available in Lightly Sea Salted, Mature Cheddar & Chive, Sea Salt & Cider Vinegar and Sweet Chilli and Red Pepper or Tyrrells Veg Crisps via Tyrrells Court Farm on 01568 720244 or from their usual stockists.

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One Month Left To Join VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme Businesses that deferred VAT payments last year have one month left to join online to pay in monthly instalments under the VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has said today.

The online portal for the new payment scheme closes on 21 June 2021.

Over half a million businesses deferred £34 billion in VAT payments due between March and June 2020 under the VAT Payment Deferral Scheme. Businesses had until 31 March 2021 to pay this deferred VAT or, if they could not afford to do so, they could go online from 23 February to set up a new payment scheme and pay by monthly instalments to spread the cost.

Jim Harra, HMRC’s Chief Executive, said:

time, protecting millions of jobs and businesses during the pandemic and injecting £34 billion into the UK economy.

“The VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme means businesses can now manage their cashflow by paying their deferred VAT more gradually, continuing to protect jobs across the UK as we emerge from the pandemic and build back better.”

The March, April and May joining dates have passed, but businesses can still spread their payments across up to eight equal monthly instalments, interest-free, if they join by 21 June 2021. Payments can easily be set up via the VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme portal.

HMRC data to 30 April 2021 shows 228,850 businesses that deferred their VAT last year have already paid their VAT in full. This, along with instalments already made under the new payment scheme and other payment plans, totals £15.1 billion. Since the online service opened on 23 February 2021 another £11.5 billion has already been committed to future instalment payments by 134,627 businesses.

“Businesses that deferred paying their VAT last spring have until 21 June to join the VAT Deferral New Payment Scheme online. They should act now to avoid missing out on this opportunity to spread payment of their deferred VAT across monthly, interest-free, instalments.

“The new payment scheme is part of the Government package of support worth over £350 billion to help protect millions of jobs and businesses during the pandemic and as we emerge on the path to recovery.

Eligible businesses that are unable to use our online service by 21 June 2021 can ring the HMRC Coronavirus Helpline on 0800 024 1222 to join the scheme until 30 June 2021.

“HMRC will continue to do all we can to help businesses as they reopen and rebuild.”

Businesses may be charged a 5 per cent penalty and / or interest if they don’t join up to the scheme online by 21 June, or pay in full by 30 June, or contact HMRC to make an arrangement to pay by 30 June 2021. Businesses should also contact HMRC by 30 June 2021 if they need to agree extra help to pay.

Jesse Norman, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said: “Thanks to the Government, more than half a million businesses were able to defer their VAT payment last year. This provided support at a critical

The Source Trade Show Will Be One Of The First Trade Shows For A Year – And Help Stimulate South West Trade lations will allow this trade show to happen. All the measures are in place to make this a safe and enjoyable visit. Thousands of car parking spaces, all within 5minutes’ walk of the entrance, lots of space inside, wider aisles, grab and go catering, and new outside space make this a great venue and trade show to come to and reconnect with the market.”

The Source trade show has taken place in Westpoint, Exeter annually for more than 10 years, and will be one of the first trade shows for food and drink in 2021, when it takes place on Wednesday 8th & Thursday 9th June. Attracting buyers from retail, hospitality, and catering, it showcases the best the South West region has to offer, from artisan food & drink to essential goods and services.

Mike continues “We know that suppliers, as well as everyone involved in food retail and hospitality, are looking forward to getting back together to network and find out what is new after a year of isolation. Source can help stimulate this sector, showcase innovation and provide a platform for producers”.

Although not open to the public, this trade show provides an important stimulus for the South West food and drink trade - offering buyers the chance to come and meet suppliers face to face for the first time in more than a year.

“For those buyers wishing to come and see new suppliers and get great ideas for their business, this event takes some beating!” says Mike Anderson, MD of show organisers Hale Events. “We are delighted that government regu-

For more information about the show, to book a stand, or for trade buyers to register to attend, please call 01934 733433, follow the show on Twitter @sourcefooddrink, or visit www.thesourcetradeshow.co.uk.

The trade show that’s got the South West covered.

YO U R CO M F O R T A N D S A F E T Y • Park free of charge in easy walking distance of the entrance • Large show entrance to avoid queues • Wide aisles • Outside catering and features • Covid-19 measures in place

Presenting you with the latest food and drink products, services and ideas for your business.

WHY NOT REGISTER NOW!

To get your hands on your free trade entry badge:

8 - 9 June 2021 Exeter thesourcetradeshow.co.uk t @ SourceFoodDrink

Register online or call 01934 733456. Stands are selling fast - to enquire call 01934 733433.

These trade only shows are organised by Hale Events Limited.

Telephone 01934 733433. www.hale-events.com

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Supporting Hospitality Drivers As They Return To Work Written by Simon Turner, Campaign Manager, Driving for Better Business (www.drivingforbetterbusiness.com) A REOPENED SECTOR WITH RENEWED HEALTH AND SAFETY CHALLENGES For businesses across the UK, April and May have been months focused on reopening venues safely, returning staff safely and getting back to business safely.

When it comes to health and safety, the main concerns for hospitality companies often surround on-premise risks. From sanitised work tops to social distancing, the hospitality industry is leading the way in creating a safe on-premise working environment for customers and employees. The challenge for many businesses in the sector, however, is supporting those employees who drive for work.

From catering companies to food and drink suppliers in the hotel supply chain, the hospitality sector has seen staff furloughed and commercial vehicles out of action for months.

Driving for work therefore provides a different, and equally important, set of health and safety risks that businesses may have overlooked when reopening post lockdown.

ENSURING DRIVERS AND VEHICLES ARE READY FOR THE ROAD In order to provide a safe working environment for commercial drivers in the hospitality sector, businesses can focus on two key areas: The drivers and their vehicles. It may seem simple, but ensuring that drivers and vehicles are ready for the road before work begins is an all-important step towards safety.

Drivers should check their vehicles every day before setting off, and make sure they are prepared and ready for work. Of course, many will have continued to drive during lockdown, but driving for work requires different levels of concentration, awareness and care. It naturally takes time to readjust, and employers should

therefore allow drivers time to prepare before business reopens.

Secondly, vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness is crucial. Indeed, the last thing your business needs, as it returns to normal, is to be disrupted again due to vehicles breaking down. This can be avoided by making sure vehicles are checked thoroughly, including tyres, brakes, battery and fluid levels. Tyres in particular may have lost significant amounts of pressure over the course of lockdown, with possible sidewall damage if they’ve been stood in the same place for a while.

CHAMPIONING DRIVER WELLBEING THROUGH A STRONG COMPANY CULTURE Finally, those who drive for work are typically lone workers, and may spend long hours working alone.

Sustained periods of isolation, increased time pressures and road congestion are known to have detrimental effects on anxiety and fatigue. That’s why at Driving for Better Business, we work with CALM to support the mental health and wellbeing of commercial drivers across all industries. As part of the CALM Driver campaign, we’ve distributed over 22,000 support packs to help drivers feel supported as they take to the roads as lone workers.

Driver wellbeing is therefore something the hospitality industry needs to be aware of as it gets back into gear. For businesses who employ drivers, ensuring employees are fit to drive is a business priority that some companies in the hospitality sector may overlook when reopening. Employers would be well advised to remind employees of the driving for work part of their health and safety policies to ensure they focus on driver safety and vehicle roadworthiness.

Alongside work related road risk, championing a strong company culture will help businesses support drivers. As business reopens, many employees will naturally want to maximise their workload. However, the hospitality companies that adopt a strong culture and demonstrate leadership in employee wellbeing will be the businesses that ensure their workforce, including drivers, are fully supported as lockdown is lifted. Once this is achieved, they will also start to see the business benefits of managing work related road risk effectively, enhancing performance across business operations.

Government Hangs Hospitality Laundries Out To Dry. Again The restart grants are great news for hospitality and other businesses - but not for commercial laundries. Yet again the laundries that hospitality relies on have been ignored by government. Now the TSA (Textile Services Association), which represents commercial laundries in the UK, has written to BEIS (the department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy) to demand an explanation.

"We didn't get lockdown grants, we didn't get business rates relief, we didn't get the VAT reduction," says David Stevens, CEO of the TSA. "Now we're not getting the restart grants, either. It's like Groundhog Day, only much worse.

"We're suffering, we need support, and we're not getting it, while other business are. It's so unfair."

Stevens points out that the commercial laundries that supply the hospitality industry have seen their business drop by 90% or more. "We just need to know why we're being ignored," he says.

Here is the text of the TSA's letter to Kwasi Kwarteng MP, Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy: Dear Mr Kwarteng, I draw your attention to a statement that our members are receiving every time they apply to their Council for any form of rate relief or grant support.

"I understand your position and frustration. However, in the guidance that was issued by the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, your business does not fall into a qualifying category" This time it's the re-start grants. Before that it was the lockdown grants. And the VAT reduction. And the business rates relief. Every time, we get ignored, and we get nothing.

All the Councils agree hospitality laundries have been forced to close. They all agree we should get the grant. They all agree it's unfair that we don't get any support. But then they've agreed we should have been included in every piece of financial support that other businesses have been offered. But sympathy is all we get. There has been no money forthcoming, the hospitality laundries are always left out.

Until someone in BEIS is brave enough to accept they have got it wrong, the commercial laundry industry will not get the support it deserves and so desperately needs.

We've been turned down time and time again. We've been hung out to dry.

So, now we need an audience with a decision maker in BEIS so that, at the very least, they can explain why we've been singled out for no help from government. Then I can inform the industry as to why we have been excluded.

Without the hundreds of commercial laundries serving hospitality, and the 24,000 laundry operatives they employ, UK hospitality will not be able to operate on 17th May. Hotels, restaurants, sports facilities and many other businesses rely on commercial laundries.

How can you expect laundries to survive without any support when other sectors have received £billions in grants, VAT reductions and rate relief.

Give us support. Please. If not, then at least give us an explanation.

The letter is signed by David Stevens.

The TSA is the trade association for the textile care services industry. The TSA represent commercial laundry and textile rental businesses. Membership ranges from family-run operations through to large, multinational companies. Visit www.tsa-uk.org for more information.

Significant Amount Of Capital Ready To Invest In European Hotels Again There is a significant amount of capital targeting European hotels, looking for the right opportunities, which is largely maintaining current pricing across prime markets, according to a report by property specialist Savills.

accounting for an 18.6% share of transaction volumes. According to Savills, this is due to investors’ belief that the country will be a key tourist destination for pent-up international travel demand.

The international real estate advisor expects to see some of this capital deployed from the second half of the year onwards, in line with a closer alignment between buyer and seller expectations. Mature markets and key gateway cities are likely to support capital preservation, while operationally, the recovery will be driven by the degree of flexibility around international travel.

Richard Dawes, Director in Savills Hotel Capital Markets, says: “The emphasis on prime assets is evidenced across key Q1 2021 deals. For example, the Zetter Group, comprising three prime London assets, was acquired by Orca Holdings in March, with the brand looking to expand further into key European gateway markets such as Paris, Madrid and Amsterdam.

Overall, European hotel investment figures reached €2.16 billion in the first quarter. At €746.5 million, the UK remains the most liquid European hotel market, accounting for a 34.6% share of transaction volumes, says Savills.

“Prime yields for leased hotels in Paris (3.5%), Amsterdam, Berlin, London and Munich (all 3.75%) remain sharpest, in line with strong levels of investor demand driven by long term fundamentals. The non-prime segment is likely to experience further outward yield pressure, driven more directly by tough micro market conditions, and assets’ ESG credentials and financial challenges.”

The maturity of the hotel sector across both the UK and Germany, coupled with strong domestic travel profiles, has supported ongoing investor demand, with volumes reaching €241.1 million in Germany in Q1 2021.

While domestic coast and country markets continue to dominate in terms of deal count across each market, total investment volumes have been led by prime city centre assets.

At €400 million, Spain has overtaken Germany to become the second most liquid market in Q1 2021,

Josh Arnold, Associate, Savills Research, comments: “2021 will mark the early beginnings of recovery for many hotels, with the longer-term outlook remaining promising. The vaccine rollout in Europe suggests any current lockdowns will be the last, and that demand pick up is imminent. As countries begin easing restrictions, we can expect the staycation market to benefit in the first instance, followed by recovery across short-haul international leisure destinations.”

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Nearly Half of Brits Are Planning a Staycation as Hotels and B&Bs Prepare For the Big Summer of Spending lier, with over a fifth (22%) reducing their plastic waste, 20% deciding to use more recyclable materials, 18% going entirely paperless, and nearly half (44%) embracing a smart meter.

• 66% of leisure and hospitality microbusinesses, including hotel and B&B owners, have ‘upgraded’ themselves to be more financially efficient over the last year ahead of the ‘Great British Summer’ – with Brits predicted to spend over £12.4 billion on staycations alone in the next 6 months • This comes as a quarter of Brits (25%) plan to book or have booked a British holiday for the summer months • The average anticipated spend of those going away is £497, with the North East and Londoners the keenest to get away (60% and 56% respectively) – and consumers are happy to pay more for ‘green’, spending an extra £11 per night at a guest house or hotel that was sustainable • Businesses are embracing their eco-creds, with 51% of them introducing measures to make themselves more sustainable, such as getting a smart meter or reducing their plastic waste New research from Smart Energy GB reveals how small businesses have been making upgrades to prepare for the ‘big summer of spending’, including getting a smart meter to better manage their bills and become more sustainable.

It’s good news for independent hotels, guest houses, and B&Bs, with research suggesting that British staycations are at an all-time high. A quarter of Brits (25%) have booked a holiday in the country for the summer months, and nearly half (49%) are planning to head somewhere in Britain before November.

With the average spend on these trips set to be just under £500, it’s no surprise that there is due to be an expected £12.4 billion spent on staycations in the next 6 months. And, for businesses looking to max-

Over 1 in 10 (11%) small businesses have installed a smart meter since the start of the pandemic with a further 25% saying they have either applied for one or plan to get one. Of those who have had one installed, three quarters (76%) say they are more conscious about their businesses’ energy usage which has led to an average estimated monthly utility bill saving of £32.80, that’s a huge £394 a year!

Smart Energy GB’s Fflur Lawton said: “The last 18 months have been incredibly tough for businesses but with the world starting to re-open, we’re all looking forward to the Great British Summer. Lots of businesses have been looking at ways they can optimise themselves and the experience of their customers, upgrading their booking and ordering and even the way they track their energy by using smart meters. imise their profits, making upgrades that boost their eco credentials is the way forward.

Brits are happy to spend an extra £11 per night at a guest house or hotel that is sustainable, with just under half (47%) saying they would pay more for a greener stay.

When it comes to environmental upgrades, over half of small businesses (51%) have introduced measures that make their business eco-friend-

Nearly half of British micro businesses are already use a smart meter to help keep track of their energy usage and checking if your business is eligible for a smart meter couldn’t be easier. Every single one fitted across the country is a positive step towards a smarter nationwide energy system.”

Smart meters are available for businesses and installations are happening now. To check if you’re eligible for a smart meter, visit www.smartenergygb.org/get-a-smart-meter

The Northumberland Arms Wins Top Award from Tripadvisor A LEADING North East venue is celebrating being listed in the top 10 percent of hotels worldwide, ahead of reopening for overnight stays.

“This is an excellent testament to the hard work of our staff at the venue, who go above and beyond to ensure that our customer service is the best it can be.

The Northumberland Arms, at Felton, has been named a 2021 Travellers’ Choice Award Winner by the world’s largest travel platform, Tripadvisor.

And the accolade could not have come at a better time, as the pub prepares to welcome customers back indoors from Monday.

Presented to those which have stood out for their service, the award recognises venues which have “earned positive traveller reviews and ratings over the last year” and delivered “fantastic experiences to travellers around the globe.”

Stuart Young of the Northumberland Pub Co, which operates The Northumberland Arms, is delighted to be recognised for their commitment to the guest experience.

“Being named in the top 10 percent of hotels worldwide is a fantastic achievement and we are very grateful that our guests have reviewed us so highly on the platform,” he said.

“We are all looking forward to reopening for indoor dining and overnight stays from Monday and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back inside the venue.”

Kanika Soni, Chief Commercial Officer at Tripadvisor, said: “I know the past year has been extremely challenging for tourism businesses. What has impressed me is how businesses adapted to these challenges, implementing new cleanliness measures, adding social distancing guidelines, and utilising technology to prioritise guest safety.

“The Travellers’ Choice Awards highlight the places that are consistently excellent - delivering quality experiences time and time again even while navigating changing customer expectations and new ways of working.

“Based on a full year of reviews from customers, this award speaks to the great service and experience you provided guests in the midst of a pandemic.”

Getting Customers Back Through The Door your deals & banners to be attractive to the desired audience.

Question 2 – WHAT IF WE OPEN AND NOBODY COME THROUGH THE DOORS? Karl: The main point here is to give notice, 'warm up' your customers, get them excited to come back and even offer some new deals. PVC Banners are ideal for doing this.

Question 3 – WE HAVE TO INCREASE OUR PRICES, BUT WE’RE WORRIED THIS WILL PUT PEOPLE OFF? Karl: Price is always an important factor, but remember its not the only factor, if your staff are friendly, the environment is pleasant and your USP is matched to your audience you will easily be able to justify price increases.

HFE Signs are the UK’s preferred suppliers for Signs and PVC Banners - we contacted their MD Karl Hunter to see if he could help answer some common questions around re-opening.

Question 4 – WE’RE IN A BUSY TOWN, ALL THE OTHER PUBS ARE FIGHTING FOR TRADE AND PRICES ARE GETTING TOO CHEAP, ITS HARD TO MAKE ANYTHING NOWADAYS. Karl: You have to again think of your niche, a busy town will have lots of choices for the customers but likewise it has lots of customers too, don’t get drawn into the price. Essentially you are there to make a profit so offer something special to your customers. People are happy to pay more for something different - that may be nicer décor, relaxed environment, big TV’s, live sports, live music or barmaids in fancy dress! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, its not all about the price.

Question 1 – IF A PUB HAS BEEN CLOSED FOR SO LONG AND BEEN UNABLE TO TRADE, HOW CAN THEY REGAIN THE CUSTOMERS THEY HAVE LOST TO SURROUNDING PUBS THAT HAVE OUTDOOR FACILITIES? Karl: With any marketing, psychology is key, you have to understand your market and analyse your competition. Who are your target audience, drinkers, families, couples or oap’s? With this information you tailor

Question 5 – WHAT CAN WE DO TO MAKE PEOPLE COME BACK? Karl: You can’t force people to come back and you can’t force people to spend money, people are there in the first place because you have appealed to them, you need to ask yourself what got them through the door in the first place and have you lived up to expectations? If the answer is yes, then they’ll come back. I would emphasise the importance

With so many pubs, hotels and restaurants being closed for so long, opening back up can be quite a daunting thought - several questions and concerns have been raised.

of staff impression, this includes smart appearance bubbly personality and friendliness – your pub is bricks and mortar, your staff are your business!

Karl is the founder and owner of HFE Signs Ltd – HFE Signs have been printing PVC Banners since 1996 and have a dedicated online library for pubs and food. Currently HFE offer free UK delivery with any two banners and also a buy 2 get 3rd free (mixed designs). HFE also offer a free bespoke PVC Banner design service, no wonder people go to them!

Visit www.hfe-signs.co.uk or see the advert on page 7.

Get accurate energy bills with smart meters Avoid estimates and only pay for what you use. Ask your energy

information you need to help reduce your consumption and

supplier if you are eligible for a smart meter.

therefore save money.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly challenging for

On top of that, smart meters can help save you time. They can

businesses across Great Britain. As firms begin opening up amid continuing restrictions, many are assessing their financial situation and focusing on how to operate in this difficult new trading environment.

In these uncertain times, many businesses are looking for ways to save money and maintain a healthier bottom line. The good news is that getting a smart meter for your business is a small change that could make a big difference.

Smart meters are a great way to gain more control and understand how much energy you’re using. Since energy is a key expense that businesses factor into their outgoings, identifying ways to reduce your consumption could help you save money.

Smart meters are available for many businesses. Depending on your circumstances, your smart meter could come with an InHome Display (IHD), which will enable you to see up to date consumption in pounds and pence, making it easier to visualise how much energy you actually use. In fact, some business owners who have had one installed said it highlighted areas of spending they weren’t even aware of. This could give you the

automatically send meter readings to your supplier, so you no longer have to. That’s one less thing on your to-do list!

Your energy supplier will be ready to fit your smart meter once your eligibility has been confirmed. They will arrange a date and time that is suitable for you and your business requirements. A trained installer will then call round to your premises and fit your smart meter, and after the installation process is complete, they can show you and your staff how it works and answer any questions you might have about it.

Contact your energy supplier about eligibility for your business.

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Issue 58

How To Stay Top Of The Game: Heineken Shares Tips and Insights to ™ Maximise Opportunity of UEFA Euro 2020 Tournament This Summer er occasions . What’s more, offering Heineken® on draught means more money through the till as it has the strongest value rate of sale as the sole stocked mainstream premium lager and can command the highest price per pint in the category . Heineken® appeals to the younger consumer willing to spend more money per pint , making it the best mainstream premium brand to back for this year’s tournament.

• As the Official Beer Partner of UEFA EURO 2020™ and the number one beer associated with sport , Heineken® is offering tips and insights to help operators make the most of the tournament this summer • From creating the perfect set-up, to enhancing the atmosphere and driving visibility, Heineken® has the know-how to help operators win big over the UEFA EURO 2020™ trading period • Heineken® has launched the ‘Heineken® Check In Challenge’ on Matchpint and invested over £200k in pub gardens to help drive footfall before and during UEFA EURO 2020™ Aligning with the highly anticipated reopening of the on trade, UEFA EURO 2020™ is set to be one of the most important sporting events ever for driving footfall and revenue. Football tournaments attract millions of customers who are willing to trade up and spend more , so it’s key to make sure your outlet is a go-to for fans. As the Official Beer Partner of UEFA EURO 2020™ and the number one beer associated with sport , Heineken® has the insights and advice to help you attract customers, increase dwell time and boost sales – ultimately delivering an unforgettable tournament experience.

On top of over £2million worth of investment provided directly to pubs through its UEFA EURO 2020TM support packages, Heineken® has launched the ‘Heineken® Check In Challenge’ on MatchPint. Fans are encouraged to visit their local in the run up to the tournament for the chance to win over 100 pairs of match tickets. Heineken® is also supporting stockists with over £200k investment in pub gardens to maximise capacity and increase viewing areas.

CREATING THE PERFECT FORMATION Great atmosphere is a vital consideration for UEFA EURO 2020™ fans , so think about how you can enhance this in your venue and bring the tournament to life safely whilst delivering a great experience. Position screens in well-lit and open spaces, outside where possible, to maximise space and promote social distancing while ensuring all tables have a clear view of the game. Check your speakers and volume in advance to ensure fans can hear every moment of the action.

Take advantage of tech innovations including Order & Pay services to manage table bookings, speed up service and even take pre-orders! We know that 77% of consumers don’t want to queue at the bar while enjoying sport , so this can help keep your customers satisfied and your table service system running smoothly. But don’t let tech do away with the social connections that your customers have missed – friendly greetings, good service and recommendations from staff truly make the on trade experience!

To ensure that premiership service, focus on the pinch points. Is everyone fully trained on the till systems so they can easily process any out of stocks, new lines or kitchen notes? Just like a football team, it’s also useful to allocate specific roles to certain members – like glass collection or prompting repeat orders at table, particularly during the actual game itself which can avoid bottlenecks immediately before kick-off, at half time and at the final whistle. If your squad is well trained and ready,

Considering that 60% of British consumers are looking to “treat themselves” this summer , stocking Heineken® Served Extra Cold is perfect for those looking for that more premium experience, just the ticket for consumers trading up to celebrate the tournament. Its eye-catching dual iced fount increases visibility and helps boost revenue, with a rate of sale uplift of +24% versus the classic Heineken® fount .

Don’t forget the moderators! With 50% of UK consumers now moderating their alcohol intake , Heineken 0.0 is the perfect alcohol-free option for UEFA EURO 2o20™ fans who want to feel part of the occasion. Heineken 0.0 is the number one no and low alcohol brand and delivers twice the rate of sale than other packaged brands in this segment .

everyone wins.

ENHANCING THE ATMOSPHERE Decorate to create a buzz! Dress your venue with flags and team colours to set the mood and create a carnival atmosphere, switching it up from game to game so that customers feel part of the action. If you requested a UEFA EURO 2020™ visibility kit from Heineken®, put your posters up in hot spots like entrances / exits, toilets and in your outdoor space to drive footfall and spend, and encourage staff to get into the spirit by wearing the t-shirts and scarves while serving.

SCORING THE RIGHT FOOD AND DRINK OFFERING As 51% of customers want food before the game starts and 37% after the match finishes, offering food and drink deals such as simple ‘burger and drink’ promotions or package deals for larger groups, will help extend your trading period and increase spend per head. Refine your menu and encourage pre-ordering of food and drink packages for groups who reserve a table – this will aid your kitchen staff, as well as help manage stock orders. Don’t forget your match-day offers need to be easy to understand and quick to serve, as everything has to be geared to making the most of the big occasion.

A whopping £4.7 billion worth of drinks were sold (the equivalent of 546 million pints of beer) over an 8-week period during the World Cup in 2018, so delivering what your consumers are looking for is vital – and that’s beer!

Bring in the key beer players, especially classic lager. Lager is the top choice for consumers during sporting events , with 87% of UEFA EURO 2020™ consumers finding the range of lager important . Heineken® is the number one beer associated with sport and Official Beer Partner of UEFA EURO 2020™. Actively sought out by consumers to enjoy while watching the match, Heineken® lager over-indexes on social get-togeth-

Drink sales really ramp-up from around 1.5 hours before the match and are often five to six times higher than normal around kick-off . To help relieve pressure on staff, aim to create more serving spaces where possible, particularly outdoors. Make use of countertop draught systems such as BLADE or think about renting moveable SmartDispense™ BarPro systems to help you serve more, great quality pints during the tournament. Whatever you do, it’s important to deliver a perfect serve, every time. A fresh, cold, perfectly poured pint is something that consumers can only get from their local and therefore plays a huge role enticing them back into the pub and shaping their sporting experience.

PROMOTING AN UNRIVALLED OFFERING AND KEY FIXTURES Once you’ve established a winning offering, don’t forget to shout about it! Considering 70% of consumers get their information on an outlet’s offerings through social media, promote the sporting events you’re showing well in advance on your website and social channels as well as on A-boards outside the pub, to drive footfall and sales.

Social posts ahead of match days or events will remind people of your venue as a sports destination, helping encourage pre-booking and generating buzz. For best practice, it’s recommended that each specific sporting event gets 2+ posts in the lead up to match-days and that you state all the details clearly on the day of the game. Excite and tempt customers with videos of perfectly poured pints, outdoor space and the exhilaration of match day. Familiarise yourself with the fixtures and plan accordingly – while there’s no guarantee as to the home nations’ performance, let’s prepare to win!

Visit https://smartdispense.heineken.co.uk /smart-technology/bar-systems/ for more information on SmartDispense™ BarPro systems.

Menu Flexibility Key to Tackling Inflation, says Lynx Purchasing Hospitality businesses should factor flexibility into their menu planning to deal with rising food and drink prices over the coming months, says buying specialist Lynx Purchasing.

As the sector reopens after the long winter lockdown, a number of factors are combining to create a "perfect storm" in inflation terms, warns Lynx, as it publishes the Spring 2021 edition of its regular Market Forecast.

Lynx Purchasing managing director Rachel Dobson warns: "It doesn't take too much uncertainty to disrupt the supply chain, and this spring there are a number of elements of unpredictability all arriving at once.

"The biggest factor among them is reopening itself. Suppliers are having to make educated guesses about levels of demand from their hospitality customers. In terms of numbers, we know that sadly, not every business has survived the lockdown.

"Equally, while there seems to be a considerable level of pentup consumer demand, it's not clear whether there will be sustained high levels of spending on eating out, or just a burst of reopening activity that will taper off after a while.

"Added to this are the post-Brexit arrangements for food and drink imports into the UK, which haven't yet been tested in terms of hospitality supply, due to the lockdown, and globally there's a shortage of shipping containers which is impacting the price of many food commodities. Covid is also a factor, with supplies from parts of the world that are still struggling with the pandemic likely to take longer to return to normal levels."

The latest edition of the Market Forecast offers operators an in-depth look at pricing and product trends over the coming months, using exclusive data gathered from the range of suppliers who work with Lynx.

Dobson adds: "Factors such as provenance, seasonality and sustainability are increasingly important to consumers post-pandemic, so there are now even more opportunities for operators that focus their menus on fresh, seasonal UK produce when it's at its best in terms of quality and availability.

"Fish and seafood is a good example. The fishing industry is reported to be struggling with exports due to increased bureaucracy, so operators who can use flexible menu descriptions such as ‘market fish' or ‘catch of

the day' will find there's a choice of high quality, good value produce from UK seafood suppliers. That also supports the seafood industry's sustainability efforts, which have been in the media spotlight recently. As a general rule, the closer to home that chefs can buy fish and seafood, the better."

Other menu areas that operators will need to be aware of over the coming months include: • Meat & Poultry: There has been a reduction in the total supply from meat and poultry producers in the UK and Ireland, which combined with continued strong retail demand is likely to mean higher prices and lower availability for hospitality, particularly of more popular cuts, across the spring and summer. The arrival of the barbecue season will see increases in demand for steak, burgers and poultry. With lamb prices also high, pork is likely to represent the best value for operators.

• Dairy: Increases in cattle feed prices are expected to filter through into the cost of milk, butter and cheese, although a slight increase in UK dairy production is forecast this year, which could help to balance this. The export challenges that premium UK cheese producers have faced since the start of the year offer opportunities for hospitality operators to feature local cheeses on menus.

• Fruit & Veg: Fresh produce suppliers have factored in the increased time and paperwork involved in importing from Europe post-Brexit, but this inevitably has some impact on price. On the plus side, this has seen some UK producers gear up to increase crops of a range of produce including asparagus, tomatoes, cabbage, broccoli and soft fruits. While there are still concerns about the availability of experienced pickers and packers, if this can be addressed, there will be a good choice of seasonal British produce for spring menus.

• Store Cupboard: Products such as sugar, rice, wheat, fruit juice and vegetable oil, which are traded globally, are particularly affected by higher transport costs, with prices likely to increase across the rest of the year. Higher retail demand for these commodities also continues to have an impact on hospitality prices.

Dobson adds: "We're advising our customers to plan for higher levels of inflation later this year. While suppliers have been able to absorb increases during the lockdown to an extent, operators will need to stay alert to likely changes in pricing over the coming months, and budget accordingly.

"Our key advice is to work with trusted suppliers, and it may be that operators need to strike a balance between the established wholesale suppliers, who have worked hard to put secure arrangements in pace to ensure availability, and their more local suppliers.

"Where genuinely local provenance adds value for customers, it's worth seeking out, but there are many areas of the menu where local doesn't automatically mean cheaper or better."

A FREE copy of the Spring 2021 Market Forecast can be downloaded from the website at www.lynxpurchasing.co.uk. For more information email hello@lynxpurchasing.co.uk.

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Over Half A Million UK Travel & Tourism Jobs Could Be Lost If International Travel Remains Off Limits Up to half a million jobs could be lost in the UK Travel & Tourism sector if the government fails to significantly reopen international travel as soon as possible, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) warned.

“Staycations and domestic travel cannot fill the enormous financial hole left by the collapse of international travel and the trickle-down benefits it has across the supply chain.”

The warning comes as EU Ambassadors meet today to agree on removing restrictions in June, for those who have been fully vaccinated, when entering the EU.

WTTC warns against the UK losing its hard-won competitive advantage while the rest of Europe continues to re-open, leaving the UK isolated and the travel industry at risk of being decimated.

The new figure from WTTC’s latest economic modelling reveals the UK could suffer a near repeat of last year when travel restrictions prevented any significant international travel.

Just last week, WTTC reported that the UK, which in 2019 ranked as the world’s fifth biggest Travel & Tourism market, fell three places to number eight, sustaining a punishing GDP fall of 62.3%.

WTTC fears if that were to happen again, with limited travel between now and the beginning of September – even if domestic travel boosts revenues – the impact on the economy and the livelihoods of millions of those who work in the sector could be devastating.

With the UK economy already facing a massive shortfall in contributions to the treasury, the loss of significant international travel will cause further huge financial concern for the government.

The impact of prolonged travel restrictions this year could wipe out a damaging £22.3 billion in the sector’s contribution to UK economic growth.

However, if travel restrictions remain beyond the summer months, the impact on both jobs and GDP could be far worse.

The stark warning from WTTC comes as Brits begin limited travel abroad to the government’s 12 green list destinations, some of which have closed borders to travellers, following an almost five-month complete ban on non-essential international travel.

According to WTTC’s recent Economic Impact Report, 307,000 jobs were lost in the sector last year, and a further 218,000 are now at serious risk, if international travel continues to be off limits for most of the summer.

This year, Travel & Tourism contributions to the UK’s GDP could reach as high as £153.1bn if international travel is resumed in time for the busy summer season. However, should restrictions and changing rules continue, the UK could face a loss of at least £22 billion, significantly delaying the country’s economic recovery.

Virginia Messina, WTTC Senior Vice President, said: “We fear the embattled UK Travel & Tourism sector simply cannot cope with another ‘lost summer’ if there is no significant international travel allowed, without damaging restrictions and unaffordable test requirements.

“WTTC’s latest research lays the consequences in the starkest way with a further 218,000 jobs at risk of being lost if the government continues to throttle the resumption of meaningful international travel.

“While we understand protecting public health is the number one priority, if the government continues its overly cautious approach, hundreds of thousands more jobs could be lost and travel businesses up and down the country face going bust.

“The UK should be making the most of its successful vaccination rollout to begin to restore international mobility safely.

WTTC warns the continuing lack of international travel could threaten London’s position as one of the world’s premier hubs for business and leisure travel, as Europe steals a march and re-opens its doors ahead of the UK. The global body has continued to argue that unnecessary and harmful quarantines should be removed, and that travel can safely resume through rapid and cost-effective testing, coupled with enhanced health and hygiene measures, mask wearing throughout the traveller journey alongside the successful vaccination rollout.

Northamptonshire Pub Company Greedy Gordons Group To Open Two New Pubs The team behind an award-winning Northamptonshire pub and retail company are to open another two pubs in the county.

Richard Gordon and Sonya Harvey, co-owners of Greedy Gordons Group, who have run Punch Pubs lease The Red Lion at Cranford www.redlioncranford.co.uk for the past four years, are set to open two pubs in the next few weeks, creating 60 new jobs.

Gordon, who has worked in the hospitality industry for 35 years, including in food development for McManus Pub Company and as an area manager for Northamptonshire Inns, said: “Our focus at present is being able to finally welcome customers into our wonderful new pubs and continue to safely maximise trade at The Red Lion. But we have an appetite for opening further sites in Northamptonshire, including Northampton, when the time and opportunities are right.”

The Pig & Waffle in Grafton Underwood, near Kettering, which is a private lease with Boughton Estates, is set to open in early June, with Gordon and Harvey hoping it will become a village hub for locals to meet throughout the day for food and drinks, including brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and tapas. A garden kiosk called The Pig Pen, will also in The Pig & Waffle’s garden in mid-July, offering walkers, cyclists and tourists drinks and snacks.

The team’s efforts in helping local people were recognised in the Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2020/1 with a Local Hero Award. GG Express also helps support Kettering Food Bank, with a donation for every order.

Richard says: “The demand for GG Express continues to grow, driven by consumers’ appetite, following the challenges of the pandemic lockdowns, to support local businesses and British suppliers. Our customers are attracted by our restaurant quality produce that they can cook and enjoy at home. We see potential to expand this business with retail sites in Northamptonshire.”

The Snooty Fox in Lowick, which was acquired by the Greedy Gordons Group before the Covid-19 pandemic, will finally open its doors in early July. The pub was due to open last April.

Operator Takes On Second Star Pubs & Bars Site In Otley West Yorkshire based multiple operator, Jason Smith1 and his team were joined by Greg Mulholland and members of Otley Pub Club to celebrate the reopening of The White Swan in Otley on Monday following a joint £228,000 sympathetic upgrade with Star Pubs & Bars2.

comfortable, safe and inviting surroundings to encourage them to come out. It’s not enough just to open your doors and hope customers will come, especially in Otley which has more pubs than any other town in England; you need to continue to evolve and improve your offer.

It will have been 14 months since the refurbishment was due to start and seven months since the last pint was pulled in this popular local.

Originally scheduled for March 2020, the refurbishment was postponed till October due to lockdown and its reopening put back until May 17th 2021.

Greg Mulholland, President of Otley Pub Club said: “It was great to have a preview of the refurbished White Swan, Otley, in advance of its reopening again from Monday 17th May. It looks great, just right for this important and historic pub and I’m sure it will please existing regulars and new customers alike. Jason and the team really understand the Swan and his vision and experience have been key to getting this right alongside Star Pubs, who listened and engaged and we thank them and Craig in particular for working with us, to everyone’s benefit.

Jason also took on the lease of another Star Pubs & Bars Otley pub, The Junction, in November, and will be taking on The King’s Arms, Silsden in June. He plans to grow his estate with Star further over the next 12 months.

Jason says: “I have been reassured by the popularity of both pubs and happy with the real hands-on support I have received from my Business Development Manager, Craig Foweather, over the last few months and the rent relief provided by Star Pubs & Bars, which included zeroing rent during this latest lockdown.

“I am confident that business will come back to near normal in the next year. So much so that my plan is to increase my pub estate to five pubs in West Yorkshire by the end of the year. They’ll all be wet-led pubs offering a little bit of pub food.”

The reopening provided further reason for celebration as all five of Star Pubs & Bars pubs in the town have now been taken on by operators on long term leases, something The Otley Pub Club had sought. The pubs include: • The Junction, an old-fashioned real ale house

“It’s also great that all Star’s pubs in Otley now have long-term tenants in place, which is good news for the town and Otley Pub Club will continue to support them all!”

• Whitakers, a community pub with tourist appeal which reopened at the start of November under new licensees following a six to seven months closure • The Black Bull, a wet-led pub offering traditional food and Otley’s most historic pub, originally frequented by Oliver Cromwell. The licensees recently invested themselves in an upgrade of the pub • The Fleece, a family friendly pub.

The White Swan had opened again in early July once lockdown was eased. Between then and mid-October when the pub closed for the refurbishment, Jason and his team had made it a popular destination for sports fans.

Jason said: “I am passionate about keeping UK pubs alive. I believe it is more important than ever to invest in pubs to provide customers with

Says Craig Foweather – Business Development Manager for Star Pubs & Bars: “I am delighted the project has finally been completed. We have listened to the views of the community and the Otley Pub Club about the look and feel of the pub. We believe the result meets everyone’s needs. The investment will help Jason and his team build on all their hard work making The White Swan a success during these challenging times.

“It’s great that Jason has also taken on The Junction and will be taking on The King’s Arms. He is an experienced operator with excellent retailing skills and high hygiene standards. He is also very well known in the local area from Harrogate to Ilkley and has a real understanding of what customers want.”

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Issue 58

Products and Services

Southern Contracts

Southern Contracts is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of industrial laundry, catering and commercial cleaning equipment.

We work for many care homes, hotels, restaurants, holiday parks, cruise lines, offshore platforms, marine companies and local authorities, the NHS, the MoD as well as schools and colleges.

Founded in 1964 to initially supply and maintain commercial laundry equipment, we are still family run today and are proud to have become a global supplier of not only laundry equipment, but also professional kitchen appliances and commercial cleaning equipment, to well known independent and national clients. We pride ourselves on delivering the very best products and service to our customers.

and budget; our expert team of technical staff are on hand to ensure your business is supported through every aspect of your purchase. From initial advice on current government standards (eg. infection control for commercial washing machines and meeting government legislation with regard to kitchen appliances) we understand the importance of minimal disruption to our clients and cover all aspects of installation to customer training and ongoing maintenance service and repair.

For more information regarding our services for : - Laundry equipment - Kitchen appliances - Commercial cleaning equipment Contact us now on 03301 222888 or follow us on : Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn

By stocking the leading products of commercial washing machines, industrial tumble dryers, cleaning and catering equipment, we are able to offer independent and unbiased advice to ensure your purchase precisely meets your requirement

Tune Into Customers’ Healthy Mindset & Grow Sales With Good Earth

It’s a good time to review your soft drinks offering and bring in something new that taps into current consumer trends. Good Earth, an exciting new brand, has two premium adult soft drinks which appeal to the growing number of mindful and health aware consumers. “Our drinks are brewed with care and love for the natural,” says Liliana Jaurequi, Brand Manager for Good Earth.

On trend Good Earth Kombucha is an intriguing healthier alternative to usual soft serves.

Awarded Product of The Year 2021* it’s an indulgent, premium drink experience. Each Kombucha has a base of the best organic teas blended with natural juices and gets a gentle effervescent lift from live cultures. Clean on the palette, vegan friendly, with low sugar and 40 calories, it’s an attractive drink for the discerning.

As an ambient range it does not need fridge space and has a shelf life of 12 months, but is recommended served chilled. Available in premium branded 275ml bottles and coming soon 250ml cans, three flavours of Natural; Ginger & Lemon; and Pomegranate & Blueberry are available.

Good Earth is all about delivering natural mindful pleasure, and is a new take on energy for customers that like the lift of an energy drink but want something a little lighter and lower in sugar. If you have customers like this then Good Earth’s new Good Earth Good Energy is worth a look.

Super Quick, Free Range, Super Easy

Range Farm Liquid Egg products are ready to use, easy to handle, and provide convenience for those working in foodservice. All products are free range, 100% pasteurised and meet British Lion standards. Available in Whole Egg, Egg Whites and Yolks, with no product waste or mess - all your eggs in one carton!

Range Farm Free Range Hens are free to roam and forage in the natural environment. Freshly laid, our eggs are processed at our state-ofthe-art facility in Wiltshire and dispatched to customers in our fleet of refrigerated vehicles ensuring they arrive perfect and ready to

use.

Range Farm Liquid Egg is sourced from 100% UK based farms so quality and continuity of supply is guaranteed. We are also conscious of our environmental responsibilities so please be assured that our cartons are recyclable.

We provide a range of sizes and packaging according to the needs of our customers, with all Range Farm Liquid Egg products available in pallecons, BIB and cartons. To start cooking with ease and find out how we can meet your requirements, call 01249 732221 or email Adrian.Blyth@stonegate.co.uk

JURA - Speciality Coffee

For lovers of speciality coffee, the updated WE8 automatic coffee machine is now even more perfect.

The WE8 now prepares twelve different specialities at the touch of a button. It now offers macchiato, espresso doppio, special coffees and hot water for green tea at the touch of a button. The new fine foam frother is made from the highest quality materials and has a stunning look and feel. Specially designed for the preparation of speciality coffees with milk foam, it makes cappuccino and other beverages with the very best fine textured foam every time.

Recommended maximum daily output 40 cups per day.

The GIGA X3c / X3 G2 allows JURA to impressively demon-

strate Swiss innovation and professionalism down to the very last detail. Anywhere where a capacity of up to 150 cups is the order of business, the machine impresses users with its quality, functionality and reliability. Coupled with top performance in every respect, this results in a high tech automatic coffee machine that is ideally tailored to the requirements of hotel breakfasts, restaurants, bars and seminar / conference venues. Recommended maximum daily output 150 cups per day.

Photos WE8 in chrome, GIGA X3 in aluminium.

Visit uk.jura.com or email sales.uk@jura.com for further information or see the advert on page 3.

Anything’s Possible with Saniflo clean tasting, light, and refreshing drink with a natural boost of feel good energy. Blended with natural fruit juices for added vitamin C (7.5% RDA ) each can has 50 calories and 80mg of natural caffeine sourced from Guayusa. Available in Blood Orange & Tangerine and Raspberry & Blueberry.

Ethical and environmental considerations have risen up the agenda and Good Earth puts the environment at the heart of its brand. All packaging is 100% recyclable and recognising that it’s nature that’s helped it to deliver the quality of its products, it seeks to give back to nature through the 1% for the planet initiative, donating 1% of its total retail sales to help environmental causes, so a feel good buy all round.

Find out more and ask for samples from Good Earth at tradeenquiries@goodearth.co.uk. See the advert on page 27.

include grease traps and water salvage pumps.

Saniflo is one of the most widely recognised brands in the UK plumbing market thanks to its range of pumps, lifting stations and macerators that enable domestic and commercial customers to install bathroom, kitchen and washing facilities almost anywhere – particularly when gravity drainage is not an option. As well as models that are installed indoors to pump out waste, there is now a huge choice of models that can be sited outdoors and installed underground. These robust liftings stations pump black and grey waste from single buildings or multiple small buildings. Recent additions to the range

Saniflo’s sister company, Kinedo, manufactures shower products for domestic and commercial settings. The range includes integrated cubicles that feature internal and external panels and door, shower tray, shower valve and head in one easy to install package. A range of contemporary shower enclosures and premium shower trays complete the portfolio.

The company has an unrivalled reputation for after sales service which is enhanced by its unique nationwide network of 100 service engineers supported by the technical support team based at Saniflo UK. Visit www.saniflo.co.uk for further information.

Helping Hotels and Restaurants Microsave and WINIA, A Perfect Match to Bounce Back With vegan friendly, organic natural ingredients it’s a

*Kombucha - Winner chilled fortified drinks category.

Survey 9,865 people by Kantar

for Short Order Regeneration

The benefits of easy cleaning and large reductions in service costs of the Microsave microwave cavity liner are well known, but the advantages of this clever invention can sometimes be lost on smaller cavity microwaves, where the cooking capacity drops to less than ½ Gastronorm size with the Microsave inserted.

This is not an issue when the Microsave is used in conjunction with the excellent range of commercial microwaves from WINIA. The extra-large cavity of the 1500W & 1850W range ( 370mm x 370mm x

198mm WxDxH ) means that with the Microsave protecting the cavity, these ovens can still accommodate a ½ Gsatronorm or two 1/3rd Gastronorm dishes.

Perfect for fast turnaround, different item cooking and still only a matter of seconds to clean the oven at the end of service.

Regale are so keen to ‘spread the word’ they are offering three free gastronorm dishes with every 1500w and 1850w oven, whilst stocks last.

See the advert on page 10 or www.regale.co.uk

Aspenprint, a leading design and print agency for hotels and restaurants, has cleverly devised a whole range of branded social distancing items to help hotels to bounce back this year, at the same time as keeping staff and guests safe and compliant.

The various new items include disposable menus, NeverTear indestructible menus / leaflets, door seals, cutlery sleeves, branded screens, face masks, hand sanitising stations and more.

Combining clever marketing with creative design and strategic thinking will give your holiday-makers longlasting memories as well as staying socially distanced and safe.

One of their latest products to take the hospitality

industry by storm is Aspenprint’s anti bacterial laminate which can be used on a range of printed materials including menus, signage, brochures and posters. It kills 99% of all germs which touch its surface with the specialist anti bacterial laminate coating. This laminate has been widely used by hotels and restaurants, as well as the NHS and schools due to its ability to protect the public.

Aspenprint has also promoted the huge social media market for hotels by adding giant deckchairs to their extensive list of products to ensure 2021 is a success.

Aspenprint are helping many hotels and holiday parks to ensure guests have a successful staycation this summer with a range of fun printed materials from signage to deckchairs, branded parasols, feather flags, banners and more.

Visit Aspenprint’s website for more information www.aspenprint.com or call 01202 717418 to speak with one of the friendly team.

See the advert on page 5.

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Groundbreaking Health Technology Products Will Support Hospitality Reopening A UK business partnership is bringing health technology to the hospitality industry to support businesses as the easing of lockdown restrictions begin.

Scientists from Fujita Health University in Japan have confirmed that low concentrations of ozone gas can be used to neutralise coronavirus particles without causing harm to humans.

According to the university research, low-level ozone gas in concentrations of 0.05 to 1.0 parts per million (ppm) could be key to neutralising the spread of coronavirus in healthcare settings such as examination rooms and waiting areas. It also provides hospitality businesses with an alternative method to sterilise the air and surfaces in their premises and delivery vehicles without the use of chemicals.

Medklinn International, the health technology company that has pioneered research and development into negative ionisation and ozone in the sterilisation process, already provides air and surface sterilisation solutions in ASIA, the USA, Canada, Australia and Germany. Now the business is set to launch in the UK. Daniel Lu, chief technology and innovation officer of Medklinn International, said: “We are looking forward to bringing our health technol-

ogy to the UK. The announcement from the team at Fujita Health University in Japan further demonstrates that ozone sterilisation technology is a viable alternative to the use of chemicals for disinfection.”

Steve Jones, Brand Manager Medklinn UK, said: “We’re really excited to be launching Medklinn UK. Our products are already used by some of the leading global brands in the hospitality industry, including Hyatt, Mandarin Oriental and Singapore’s Changi Airport. We believe that they will be particularly useful as we make steps towards easing restrictions and reopening the UK following the lockdowns over the past 12 months.”

In addition to the latest breakthrough in neutralising coronavirus particles, Medklinn products are also proven to be effective in: • Killing 99.9% of harmful microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria, mould and fungi by destroying their RNA and DNA structure • Eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including those with adverse health effects • Neutralising allergenic organic compounds such as pet dander and the protein in the faeces of dust mites, which are often the cause of allergies

The Hospitality Sector Needs To Heed New Cleaning Techniques With hotels, restaurants and cafés all due to reopen to the public, establishing a thorough cleaning regime is crucial for the safe return of guests. The HoReCa sector has seen one of the biggest upheavals in its practices since the pandemic began; closing its doors, furloughing staff and installing new safety equipment and ongoing

cleaning procedures to kill all virus’ whilst providing a safe environment for both customers and staff.

Cardiff-based Genesis Biosciences has developed a unique anti-microbial, surface sanitiser that is proven to be effective against Covid-19 and is free from any harmful chemicals.

Genesis’ Sanitiser – part of its Evogen Professional range – delivers safe, high performance cleaning and disinfection of all types of hard surfaces.

Medklinn UK will offer a range of air and surface sterilisers designed for business use including: • Permanent units for spaces up to 1,000 sq ft such as hotel guest rooms, washrooms, offices and classrooms • Permanent units for large spaces of 3,000 sq ft or more such as hotel corridors, washrooms, restaurants, halls, offices, exhibition centres, supermarkets, food processing and manufacturing plants • Portable units for ad hoc treatments of indoor odours recommended for hotel guest rooms, restaurants and facilities management It will also offer ozone water systems (for washrooms, industrial kitchens, food processing factories) and integrated sterilisation systems (for public washrooms, food processing and F&B outlets and supermarkets).

The consumer range from Medklinn will feature two products - one suitable for the home and travel and one for use in vehicles.

For further information about Medklinn UK please visit uk.medklinn.com or contact medklinn@tunnelight.net.

The utilisation of natural, biodegradable active ingredients offers an ecobenign alternative to many of the harsh chemicals commonly used for sanitisation.

Genesis Biosciences is one of the few companies in the UK to have gone through rigorous external anti-viral testing to validate its surface sanitiser’s effectiveness against all enveloped viruses, including COVID-19 and other coronaviruses. The sanitiser is available 1,000L IBC, 200L, 20L, 5L and 500ml concentrates offering a cost effective and environmentally responsible anti-viral solution for all applications.

To find out more about the Evogen Professional cleaning range, or to purchase direct, visit www.evogenprofessional.com.

Engraved Table Numbers and QR Discs Facilitate Social Distancing as Pubs and Restaurants Re-Open The hospitality sector begins to re-open its doors after yet another long lockdown faced with the continued challenge to maintain social distancing.

Government guidelines state pubs and restaurants should encourage the use of contactless ordering from table and should adjust their service approach to minimise staff contact with customers.

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 answer the increasing demand for our engraved products”, said Martyn Wright, managing director of Brunel Engraving and founder

of the company.

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: 01275 871720

Technology proven to kill viruses and bacteria including Covid 19 at prices that don’t damage your profits

Versa Air+Surface Sterilizer Effective against

Bacteria & viruses

VOCs & toxic gases

Bad smells

Cross infections

Allergens

Mould

Cost effective solutions for spaces 250sq ft - 3000sq ft and vehicles

www.uk.medklinn.com

Distributed by Tunnelight, Telford, UK | medklinn@tunnelight.net

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Cleaning, Hygiene and Infection Control Evaness 100% Biodegradable Consumables Range

Issue 58

Consumable Supplies brand EVANESS is the only full range of biodegradable products for the catering industry, from various sizes and strengths of bin liners, to clingfilm and food/freezer bags.

EVANESS is a derivative from the word ‘Evanesce” meaning to vanish and the technology used in the biodegradable range is scientifically proven to degrade the material if it gets into the open environment and then facilitate the secondary process of biodegradation, without causing micro-plastics.

New recent additions to the product range include compostable bin liners which are manufactured to EN13432 certification for home and industrial composting, and the UK’s first ANTI-VIRAL Grip Seal bag, which although are non-biodegradable are specifically designed to combat the transmission of viruses and bacteria.

The pandemic brought about many concerns over how to store and handle a range of items, which were handled by

many a person to avoid the transfer of viruses and bacteria.

Consumable Supplies created a Grip Seal bag which incorporates an advanced British technology D2P by Symphony Environmental, which provides protection to the surface of the Grip Seal bag against microorganisms or viruses for the lifetime of the bag and offers a 99.9% Anti-Viral reduction after 1 hour of contact.

Although the bag can be used for the storage and handling of any items you wish to protect, as the product is Food-Safe, it also offers its use to storing food.

The initial bag size offered is 150mm x 200mm, so useful for smaller items and can form part of your existing health and hygiene protection routine.

Consumable Supplies strives to offer unique quality environmentally friendlier products at reasonable prices with a great no-quibble customer service. Free delivery on any order.

See the advert opposite or visit www.consumablesupplies.co.uk

Clean Rooms and Fresh Laundry Are a Top Priority for Successful Hotels & Restaurants Clean rooms and fresh laundry are a top priority for successful hotels & restaurants. You’re in safe hands with MAG Laundry Equipment who are one the UK’s leading suppliers for commercial laundry machines.

MAG supply commercial washing machines, tumble dryers and ironers to meet the budget & demands of any business however large or small. Their equipment is backed up with an excellent service by their nationwide fleet of engineers across the UK that can assist with maintenance, repairs, spare parts for all brands & models of laundry machines.

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

MAG also offers free trails & demonstrations of

their Super ActivO ozone generator which sanitises the air & surfaces of any indoor room in as quick as 15 minutes. This can remove the strongest of odours and eliminates 99% of bacteria & viruses including salmonella, e.coli, covid-19, mites and more.

Efficient, reliable and professional, ask about MAG’s competitive purchase and pay monthly options.

Telephone: 01569 690802 Email: info@laundrymachines.co.uk

Why choose SANOZONE? ■ SanOzone generates Ozone and completes a deep and accurate sanitation cycle ■ Ozone sanitisation is cheaper and faster than alternatives like fogging ■ Swiftly cleans and sanitises rooms of all sizes, removing harmful microorganisms ■ Reaches every corner of location, acting more rapidly than other disinfecting agents ■ Machine generates ozone from the air, which decomposes to oxygen after use

SANOZONE CLEANS INDOOR SPACES OF ALL SIZES FOR COVID SAFETY Ozone sanitising is the most effective way to deep clean residential environments of all sizes and it is easier, quicker, and more cost-effective than manual cleaning or fogging.

Once in position, an easy-to-use key-pad enables the operator to set the optimal ozone concentration for the size of the room.

The system then automatically converts the ambient air into ozone that fills the room, sanitising floors, walls, ceilings, surfaces and equipment.

The complete sanitisation of an average sized room will take approximately two hours. This includes the production of ozone, maintaining the required concentration for total cleaning and then returning the room to its usual habitation state.

SanOZone is one of the most versatile and efficient sanitisation systems available to healthcare, commercial property owners and facilities management companies. It offers many benefits over manual cleaning and we believe that it is three times quicker and more efficient than alternatives like fogging.

THE MAIN BENEFITS OF SANOZONE ARE: • Highly efficient in the fight against Covid viruses • Effective against the majority of microorganisms tested • Requires only low volumes of ozone to kill bacteria, fungus, parasites and viruses • A standalone system that eliminates the need for chemical substances • More cost-effective than traditional cleaning operations or materials • Automatic cleaning cycle; easy to move from room to room SanOZone units are fully mobile, easy to programme for hourly or daily cleaning and have acoustic and visual warning indicators for safe operation. As it creates its own ozone, no chemicals or additional cleaning products are required. There are no ongoing costs.

SanOZone Easybox systems are available from Barbel now, with prices starting from £1,750 ex VAT for the Easybox 5

For more information, contact Barbel on 01629 705110, email info@barbel.net or visit the website at www.barbel.net

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Cleaning, Hygiene and Infection Control

Issue 58

Enhance the Perception of Clean with a Venue That Smells Great cleaning procedures. While the washroom may be the cause of the worst odours in a building, improving the air quality and freshness throughout premises brings many benefits.

“Restaurant and pub managers should not overlook the power of scent in the workplace. Choosing the most appropriate fragrance to apply throughout a building can help create a happier and more relaxed experience for staff and guests, says Mark Wintle. “After all, shopping centres and high-end retailers have been using ambient scents to positively influence customer perceptions for years. P-Wave has worked with leading fragrance houses to develop a range of well-researched and consumer-tested popular fragrances.

“As innovators in the air freshening industry, P-Wave understands that cleanliness and hygiene are the most important aspects of managing premises, but with the heightened awareness created by Covid-19, restaurant and pub managers need to action every option available to ensure safety and reassure employees and visitors,” says Mark.

WASHROOM FOCUS

Now that there is a roadmap for coming out of lockdown, restaurant and pub managers need to ensure that premises are not only clean and safe, but also restore confidence for returning staff and diners.

First impressions count, and can begin before people even see if a venue is clean. The sense of smell is the strongest of the five senses and one of the body’s front-line defence mechanisms, designed to set off alarm bells if a foul smell is detected. According to research, 75% of all emotions generated each day are due to smell, and we are therefore 100 times more likely to remember something we smell over anything we hear, see, or touch. A bad smell is a warning of a bad experience to come.

“Many restaurants and pubs have been closed for months, and while they might have been cleaned, air quality will be poor, and with a reduced frequency of cleaning routines, they will not smell as fresh as they should,” says PWave® Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Wintle. “People’s trust in the cleanliness and safety of a venue can be negatively impacted if it smells bad, as they will wonder why, and suspect that it is not hygienic.”

Foul smells in any building are typically caused by the presence of bacteria which has been left to grow through either inadequate or infrequent or

In all premises, to feel safe, consumers need to see – and smell – that the washroom is immaculately clean, but poor plumbing or maintenance, or an inadequate cleaning regime can lead to unfortunate odours which are unlikely to receive 5-star reviews. However, in urinals it is the actual minute-byminute usage that can cause the biggest problem.

“We’ve been solving the most common hygiene issue in urinals for years, as randomly splashed urine causes a headache for cleaners, plus a bad smell and a reduction in hygiene standards.

“But there’s something even more important at this unprecedented time.

According to The World Health Organisation (WHO), Coronavirus can spread in an infected person's urine. This is called ‘viral shedding’, which means that if traces of contaminated urine become aerosolised and inhaled while using a urinal, the disease can infect others in the washroom1. That’s why P-Wave recently delivered a new angle on splash prevention, coupled with a major step forward in urinal deodorising technology with the launch of a new highly fragranced urinal screen.”

To ensure washroom cleanliness and hygiene it is worth installing bio-enzymatic cleaning solutions in cisterns. They release billions of beneficial bacterial to consume bio-materials that cause odours, keeping the bowl clean, blue and fresh, while also reducing water consumption by displacing water that would normally be present.

The Jade Air Purification System

The Jade Air Purification System is among the most advanced and effective Air Purification Systems on the market today, bringing the clean, fresh and re-energising air to your business premises. Engineered to maximise the air change rate by moving large volumes without the air drag that often occurs in more inferior air purifiers. The top air outlet design allows air to cascade out the top and efficiently flow throughout the room while keeping the sound volume at an industry leading low level. It's as quiet as a standard household dishwasher. Household quiet, but with the strength to provide healthier air in even the most demanding of environments.

Toilet bowls should not be overlooked, and there are passive highly fragranced solutions which can be clipped over the outside of the toilet rim (under the seat) or hung anywhere.

PASSIVE AND ACTIVE AIR FRESHENERS Passive air fresheners are ideal for smaller areas where consistent fragrancing is important. From simple, highly fragranced units for installation in bins, the back of doors, under a desks or in washrooms, to more powerful units which can be placed near a door or any space with good air flow, the openair design ensures maximum surface area exposure for effective and efficient fragrance release.

Active air fresheners replace aerosols and are better for the environment.

Systems are available to freshen small, medium and large spaces. Discrete wall or ceiling mounted systems can comprehensively freshen up to 16m3, and feature an intelligent fan which powers down when the lights go off to conserve the battery.

For use in toilet cubicles, lifts, gyms and spas or even on a desk in an office, another motion-actvated solution delivers more targeted, clean and efficient air freshening in small spaces exactly when and where it’s needed, reducing fragrance overload, nasal fatigue, and aerosol residue.

Also available are powerful, yet silent active fresheners which feature advanced micro-diffusion technology. Delivering coverage from 200m3 to 1200m3, one option features bluetooth control and advanced programming via smartphone or tablet, while the largest, features fully adjustable start/stop, diffusion and stand-by intervals as well as a weekend on/off function.

“When specifying air freshening solutions, restaurant and pub managers also have the environment on mind and only choose and install products and consumables that are 100% recyclable,” says Mark.

“As restaurants and pubs reopen, there’s no doubt that first impressions are hugely important and restore confidence. Owners and managers need to do all they can to ensure that staff and guests trust that premises are hygienic, safe and clean. Now is the time to address cleaning and maintenance issues, but also to ensure that premises smell clean and have a pleasant and inviting ambience.”

For further information visit www.p-wave.co.uk 1 https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/who-china-joint-mission-on-covid-19-final-report.pdf

Our exclusive six stages of technology not only filter the air – we also sterilise it. We diminish everything that is in the air: bioaerosols, odours, gasses, disinfectants, particulates, moulds, viruses, bacteria and fungus. We also re-energise the air to combat fatigue and to give the air a ‘lighter’ feel.

Headaches, fatigue, itchy eyes, dry skin, coughing, sneezing, and the need for inhalers are all ways polluted air can cause discomfort and inconvenience. We eliminate the causes of these problems.

The Jade is designed with premium in mind, in its beautiful contemporary styling on the outside, its sophisticated technology on the inside, and its airflow performance throughout.

Find out more or purchase your Jade unit at www.scaukandireland.com

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New Ground-Breaking ‘Always-on’ Room Sanitiser System Launched to Help UK Businesses Prevent Transmission of COVID-19 A new ground-breaking ‘always on’ air and surface sanitiser system has been launched to help hospitality venues get back to business by giving customers and staff complete peace of mind.

system remotely 24/7, ensuring hospitality venues can welcome customers inside with confidence.

PureSan continuously sanitises any indoor space whilst in normal use, preventing the transmission of harmful viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19.

Tested by a UKAS accredited lab in many commercial environments, PureSan is certified and proven to create and maintain a clinically clean indoor area.

The PureSan window sticker will soon become the internationally recognised hallmark of a space that is continuously sanitised and always clinically clean, ensuring both customers and staff feel safe in a ‘PureSan protected’ environment.

The system has been certified and approved by the EPA and NSF, is approved for use on food contact surfaces with no rinse required [NSF rated D-2] and produces no harmful by-products.

Each system has its own SIM card that enables the PureSan team to monitor and control the

In addition to eliminating COVID-19, PureSan is proven to eradicate over 35 harmful viruses, bacteria and fungi.

PureSan has huge commercial benefits to help hospitality businesses recover from the pandemic, including raising customer confidence and footfall, and dramatically reducing staff absence due to sickness.

The system is highly cost effective with low monthly running costs and can often prove cost neutral with the low cost easily offset by an increase in revenue.

For more information, please visit: www.puresan.org

Sundeala SD Safety Screens and Sundeala Safe Push Door Plates Sundeala have been manufacturing in the UK since 1898 and we are now proud to offer a wide range of products to help you create physical partitions and keep environments hygienic and safe.

Many products in our Covid Compliance range including Safe Push Door Panels and SD Safety Screens are made using our Sundeala FR Board.

Our Sundeala FR Safe Push Door Plates are 100% coronavirus free in 5 minutes and are designed to be attached to doors with no-screw fixings making them easy to remove after use. Safe Push Door Plates require no cleaning and are fantastic for reducing the spread of viruses from high touch door surfaces.

After undergoing ISO 17025 compliant laboratory testing we are delighted to reveal that our Sundeala FR Board (used extensively in circulation spaces, corridors and other high-footfall areas) is shown to be 100% safe from viral transmission from contact with the surface and 100% coronavirus free throughout after 5 minutes of infection, making it completely safe to touch, cut, sand and recycle.

Available in 7 subtle shades, we can create bespoke sizes to fit any door and supply each pack of Door Plates with adhesive tabs to ensure easy installation.

Our Sundeala SD Safety Screen is an environmentally friendly safety screen, perfect for encouraging social distancing in high foot fall environments to help prevent viral spread via droplets or aerosolisation.

Sundeala FR Board is manufactured in the UK from UK waste materials.

Sundeala notice boards protect the environment outside while improving the environment inside.

Sundeala SD Safety Screens are made from 100% recycled paper fibres and are highly porous as well as being extremely durable and robust. They are a practical, environmentally friendly way to assist with social distancing and can be pinned with informational and/or decorative posters, signs and paper.

For any more information or to find out how we can safeguard your spaces, contact our sales team on 01453 708689 / enquiries@sundeala.co.uk

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Issue 58

Hospitality Technology Less Work and Better Results?

Your Guests Hold The Secret and reduces the chance of losing information or recording something inaccurately.

Have you ever thought “there’s got to be an easier way to run my property”?

Small accommodation providers can achieve this same sense of convenience and simplicity with hotel management software. Eliminating your need for physical notebooks or ledgers, manual data entry, and timeconsuming admin, software makes running your property as easy as using an app on a smartphone - as so many of your guests do.

There’s a growing trend amongst your guests, and society in general, that can go a long way to helping you manage your property easier and more successfully.

You may have noticed more and more people managing their home life, work days, and holiday trips online via their smartphones or computers. They make notes, keep appointments, research, socialise, do their banking, and book travel.

The advantages of this are all based around convenience, speed, and simplicity. It keeps all their information in one place, lets them perform actions quickly,

There will always be a perception that technology is complex and difficult to understand, and only people with a background in tech can understand it. This is not the case at all. In fact some providers design their software for exactly your property type, to the point where you can get started within a day.

To learn more about how you can run your property better and get time back in your day, check out Little Hotelier - a solution built specifically for small accommodations.

For further details visit the website at www.littlehotelier.com/hotel-management-software

It's Time For You To Get Budget Proof

By Dan Brookman, CEO of Airship (www.airship.co.uk) and Toggle (www.usetoggle.com) Now, I am an optimist. Those who know me, know that I have a passion for business and generally a positive outlook; especially around the hospitality sector that I’ve spent my working life in. My preset as a founder and entrepreneur is to push for business growth and to seek out opportunities, however there have been occasions over the last year when I shouldn’t have jumped as quickly as I did, consolidation and cost control would have been a better strategy. It’s a tough shout though when you’re pushing for growth.

Budgeting though, enables control of costs and as long as you know the costs coming down the track, you can turn dials based on expected revenues.

Right now the future remains uncertain but one thing we do know is there’s going to be an immediate boom for hospitality - we’ve seen it already in the volume of bookings and we’ve been incredibly lucky with sunny (if not chilly) trading.

This boom might be followed by a lull, or further restrictions, or it might just all get back to normal.

But whatever the future, the key now is to control costs, maximise margins and make the most of this initial surge of customers.

There’s going to be a deluge of new data and you are going to want to market to that data. Platforms such as Mailchimp charge based on the size of your lists, some platforms have additional broadcast charges alongside licenses; you succeed and then you pay more money for your success. Whereas Airship

and Toggle are #BudgetProof. Any customer can signup and the price will be fixed for the length of their contract. This is no matter the size of your database (nor how it grows whilst we’re working together) or the amount of emails that you send. Or the revenue generated through Toggle. Or the amount of support that you use.

Now’s the time to choose partners which won’t penalise you for your success. Where you won’t be charged based on volume, where you won’t be refused additional support when you need it. Choose one that wants you to succeed.

Visit www.airship.co.uk and www.usetoggle.com

ConnectSmart from QSR ®

QSR Automations, the leading provider of kitchen automation, guest management, off-premise technology, and predictive analytics, announced the launch of the ConnectSmart Platform. This move strengthens and simplifies company and product offerings.

The platform effectively combines QSR Automations’ software suite into a single platform: • ConnectSmart Kitchen, industry-leading kitchen display system • ConnectSmart Go, an off-premise order management system • ConnectSmart Host (formerly DineTime), a guest experience, reservation and table management solution • ConnectSmart Insights, a business intelligence tool • ConnectSmart ControlPoint, hardware management software

• ConnectSmart Recipes (formerly TeamAssist), a kitchenintegrated recipe viewer By connecting the back end and integrating these solutions into one operational platform, operators can work with a solution that shares data from all its components and make holistic restaurant decisions in real-time. Flexible APIs and robust integrations allow operators to tailor the platform to their specific needs and focus on what’s most important — the guest experience.

Restaurant owners and operators can learn more about the ConnectSmart Platform at www.qsrautomations.com

Hospitality Technology

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CaterCloud Enhances its FREE Offering - The Secret Ingredient to Menu Management Success and Compliance with Natasha’s Law costing system offers a wealth of enhanced functionality to help caterers gain significant efficiencies in their operations, to control costs and profits.

CaterCloud helps businesses ensure food safety remains a key focus.

With food labelling regulations set to change in October 2021, as a result of Natasha’s Law, all England-based businesses working in the food industry will be required to clearly label all foods for direct sale, produced and packed on their premises with a full list of ingredients detailing the full allergen profile.

Designed to help businesses prepare for this upcoming regulation, CaterCloud provides sub-allergen information and tagging; QR Code menu scanning for live allergen and nutritional information, along with the ability to print Natasha’s Law compliant food labels. CaterCloud also offers customers access to a range of accredited training for allergen awareness and food safety in conjunction with Allergy Accreditation.

Manchester-based, e-f group has released the latest enhanced feature version of its FREE TO USE cloud-based, menu management platform, CaterCloud.

The easy-to-use, next generation allergen, nutrition, menu planning and

CaterCloud’s innovative functionality also boasts many other benefits to enable easy to use menu and cost management for caterers across the hospitality, healthcare, education and retail sectors. The flexible menu planner, with a drag and drop feature, allows the user to instantly evaluate rotational menus, costs and nutritional values using the nutritional database with 1,000s of ingredients. All this combined allows your business to assess its performance using the interactive KPI dashboards.

Users of CaterCloud have special access to the e-foods’ Buyers’ Club and benefit from its substantial buying power. The Buyers’ Club is made up of a network of trusted accredited suppliers across the UK. Users can purchase food and non-food goods from these suppliers and expect to generate savings of between 5 to 10%.

Paul Mizen, Chief Executive, e-f group said: “During the pandemic we haven’t rested on our laurels and we’ve been working hard behind the scenes internally and with existing clients to innovate and enhance the features of our Catercloud system.

With the hospitality industry, set to explode again, we wanted to be ready to offer that sector especially, this enhanced FREE software which will most certainly help catering managers and chefs maximise efficiencies, streamline processes and save costs.

We continue to be at the forefront of delivering the innovate features the industry needs. As we’ve previously stated this is our way of giving something back to the industry upon which our business was founded.”

CaterCloud is without doubt the smartest, most intuitive platform available to caterers.

For more information go to www.catercloud.com or www.e-foods.co.uk

Table Tap Offers Exceptional Customer Service and Social Distancing at Dusk Top nouvelle restaurant and lounge, Dusk, Brentwood, has installed Table Tap, an innovative solution to help customers and waiting staff communicate from leading telecommunications company, Brentwood Communications.

to Table Tap, we’re able to be on top of our game.”

Table Tap runs over a radio frequency and transmits a signal from a button placed on a table, which connects to a watch on a waiter’s wrist and can be set-up in just five minutes.

With a single tap on a button, customers can inform staff that a table is ready to order, pay the bill, or simply call for the waiter’s attention without leaving their seat.

James Miller, MD, Brentwood Communications, adds: “The idea for Table Tap came about after we installed similar technology into fitting rooms for Nike stores across Europe, which allowed people to alert staff it they wanted to swap items. We knew we could adapt this technology for the hospitality sector, which would be vital as premises re-open, helping customers to remain seated, stick to social distancing rules and still experience quality customer service.”

Sharif Uddin, Co-Owner, Dusk, says: “We have a large alfresco dining area and were concerned there may be crowding in bar areas, with customers ordering drinks or wanting to pay a bill. Thankfully, we decided to trial Table Tap to see if it could help customers socially distance and enable us to deliver excellent customer service.”

He continued: “Table Tap has been great, it’s helped us keep customers in their seats, which is ideal for social distancing. We run a very fast-paced dining environment with 28 tables, we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and thanks

GonnaOrder, The Online Ordering System That Delivers ROI

Table Tap is available for free trials, visit www.brentwoodradios.co.uk/tabletap.

FOR RESTAURANTS &H HOSPITALITY O OSPITALITY

Stop The Spread – Keeping Your Customers Seated & Safe!

The perfect solution for for any business looking to add a buzz to their customer mer experience experience with a ice ce innovation! fantastic Covid compliant service for attention With a single tap customers can call for ect! and get the rapid response they expect!

your sales by increasing table turnover and operate in a more efficient manner. Ordering through QR menus empowers your customers to safely order and preorder faster from anywhere (their table, home, office or on the road). This will result in higher profit margins and greater customer retention—with an end-to-end seamless dining experience.

Improve customer experience No wasted server time Proven to Increase sales

BREAKING FREE FROM THIRD-PARTY DELIVERY PLATFORMS Third-party delivery companies are causing alarm for many restaurant, bar and pub businesses with their increasingly high commission fees. GonnaOrder not only help you break loose from third parties by digitally controlling customer data and menus with 0% commissions, but also allows you to build customer loyalty with a rich set of features (such as special offers, giveaways, discount vouchers).

BENEFITS OF USING GONNAORDER Looking for a cost-effective, highly configurable food ordering and payment solution for your business?

LOOK NO FURTHER! GonnaOrder is here to support businesses becoming truly independent, streamlining their processes and gaining back control of their business.

THE FUTURE OF ORDERING IS DIGITAL While online ordering and delivery were already gaining momentum before the coronavirus outbreak, the pandemic accelerated their adoption. Interactive QR menus, online table ordering, and online payments—all solutions offered by GonnaOrder—are about to become the new norm at the restaurant of the future.

TECH ON THE TABLE: QR MENU & ONLINE TABLE ORDERING Using GonnaOrder’s self-ordering system, table ordering and QR menu technology will help you boost

• 0% commission online ordering app for takeaway and delivery • Dedicated Consumer Mobile App • Improved table turnover with an easy-to-use table ordering system • Branded native iOS and Android App • Streamlined operations with automatic order printing • More repeat customers with frictionless loyalty features REGISTER FOR FREE TODAY!

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS

PURCHASE OPTIONS

PACKAGE 1

7DEOH 7DS LV D VLPSOH DQG ǧH[LEOH ZLUHOHVV

service button for hospitality, leisure and retail that will improve customer experience and boost sales

PACKAGE 2

£395.00

£750.00

- 10x Table Tap Buttons - 2x Server Watches

- 20x Table Tap Buttons - 4x Server Watches

– anywhere a customer might want to ask

HIRE OPTIONS

for a little help.

1

Customer taps to call for service

PACKAGE 1

Server Recieves Message

2

Request is Completed

3

PACKAGE 2

£10.00 PER WEEK

£15.00 PER WEEK

-

-

10x Table Tap Buttons 2x Server Watches Free replacements £95.00 deposit

20x Table Tap Buttons ns 4x Server Watches Free replacements £150.00 deposit

Request trial offer today

Try it for Free today! Visit: www.gonnaorder.com or contact our sales team at sales@gonnaorder.com 1

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Keeping Food Hot? We Have All The Answers First of all, you will want one of our world beating Kanga boxes and a Carbon Heater. You can then keep food hot indefinitely and fully comply with HACCP regulations.

Sounds too good to be true?

Well we only supply premium German manufactured products from stock at incredibly low prices. The insulated box manufactured from top quality expanded polypropylene is a dense closed cell insulation material but incredibly light to handle when empty for example the GN insulted box with a 117 mm internal depth only weighs just over a kilo and yet holds a massive 21 lts capacity. Now combine the Kanga box with a Carbon Heater and the magic begins, hot food all the time!

Our range of Carbon heaters offers two voltage

options 12 volts for car operation using the cigarette lighter socket or 230 volt mains voltage for internal or external mains use. The big advantage of the Carbon Heaters they are absolutely fool proof just insert them in the bottom of the box turn on and forget, there are no consumer controls the temperature is pre-set at the factory at 75 deg C. The Carbon Heater is very light at only 700 grammes and does not take up much room only being 10mm thick. Dishes can be place on the Carbon Heater straight out of the oven up to 120deg C. Finally quick and easy to clean just wipe over with a damp cloth.

Contact Catering Equipment Limited on Tel: 0121 773 2228 or visit www.clickonstore.net or www.kangaboxuk.com

Bring In Much Needed Revenue with an Outdoor Menu This Summer

With pub gardens and outdoor seating due to open from 12th April, having an outdoor menu offering will provide a much needed revenue boost for hospitality venues across the UK. We have a wide range of products that will help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen, in any outside space.

With the 'super deduction' tax allowance introduced in the 2021 budget, businesses can also reduce their tax bill by 25p for every £1 spent on new equipment purchases, so return on investment can be gained even faster!

Crown Verity Professional Barbecues offer a high quality, adaptable cooking solution, with a wide range of add-on accessories for a varied menu. From the compact MCB30 to the MCB72 'King

of the Grill', there is a model for every operator.

Simply Stainless Tabling works alongside Crown Verity to create the perfect outdoor kitchen. Working with our fabrications division we can also offer you a bespoke stainless steel solution for any requirement.

Hygiene and safety is still a huge consideration, our Mobile Hand Wash Station & Sanitiser Unit help you to provide hygiene facilities outside for all customers and staff to keep safe.

R H Hall offer the full package...

From site visit, design and quotation - to supply of the perfect outdoor kitchen!!!

Contact our knowledgeable sales team on 01296 663400 or sales@rhhall.com to help you choose the perfect equipment for any operation!

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.

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

Herald Bolsters Eco-Friendly Range Having introduced a selection of 100 per cent compostable hot cups, with both double and ripple wall options, Herald is strengthening its commitment to providing its customers with a varied choice of premium, ecofriendly products this summer.

The quality disposables supplier is offering a choice of greener products to meet the increased demand from the catering, pub, bar and food to go sectors, with outdoor events back on the agenda, post-Covid, and restaurants and cafes aiming to maximise their takeaway options.

Recognising that many new customers are keen to provide fully sustainable and green products, Herald has prioritised providing an additional ripple wall option to its line of compostable hot cups, along with a selection of sizes.

The sizes – 8 oz, 12 oz and 16 oz – acknowledge the needs of existing customers who may want to to

make the switch to the 100 per cent compostable product by complementing the lids that Herald currently has available.

Managing director of Herald, Yogesh Patel comments on the current market status as businesses shift to accommodate changing government guidelines: “The increase in takeaway demand for cafes, restaurants and pubs means that the market has expanded for disposable cups and many of the new customers that we’re attracting are conscious of their own customers’ environmental considerations.”

Other products in Herald’s eco range include a wider selection of single, double and triple wall cups and a choice of eco sip lids.

For further information on Herald and its products, log on to www.heraldplastic.com or call 0208 507 7900 to order a copy of the new catalogue.

Outdoor Spaces Environmentally Sustainable, Ecodek Solid Decking Boards With its solid composition - intended to prevent water and moisture from rotting the decking from within - Ecodek is a long-lasting, ecologically sustainable solution that offers increased resistance to impact damage. Its solid structure gives it greater noise absorption properties, so it’s quieter underfoot; helping to reduce noise levels in dining environments.

With the increase in development of outdoor hospitality areas looking set to stay, more restaurants and bars than ever have been reviewing ways for customers to safely enjoy dining and drinking experiences out of doors, using environmentally sustainable, Ecodek solid decking boards.

Whilst many hospitality premises have been closed during lockdown, and others open for the sale of take-away orders only, businesses have been using the period to research, consider and install suitable outdoor dining solutions that can accommodate premises’ customer capacity as regulations change and warmer months approach.

Safer and more hardwearing than a wooden outdoor floor surface, Ecodek is a sustainable and effective alternative to hollow boards. It is simple to install, manufactured in the UK and supported with a 25-year guarantee. Split and rot resistant, this hardwearing decking solution is ideally suited to commercial purposes and can be relied upon for customer comfort and safety in both wet and dry conditions.

For further information about the Ecodek composite decking solution, including design ideas, environmental credentials, and recommended installation partners, visit ecodek.co.uk or speak to a product specialist on 01978 667840.

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LeisureBench Announce New Exciting Comprehensive Website

LeisureBench Limited, one of the UK’s leading suppliers and installers of high quality outdoor furniture, is proud to announce the launch of our new exciting comprehensive website.

Other products showcased on our new website include a new range of dining huts, ideal for outdoor dining whatever the weather. We can also supply and install quality awnings and sails.

All our range represents excellent value for money.

We also have an extensive choice of parasols and gazebos.

Among the new features installed, is the introduction of automatic bulk discounts off our list prices and stock availability is clearly shown.

In these difficult times, there is also the facility to preorder any item, to secure the products you require.

There are exciting new ranges for 2021 including 100% recycled plastic products including picnic tables, benches, planters and more.

Among our existing product ranges for this year, are wooden round and A Frame picnic tables, teak and pine benches, Rattan chairs, tables and sofas, outdoor dining sets, metal furniture, a full range of polypropylene chairs in many different colours and styles, and much more.

Visit our new website, www.leisurebench.co.uk or email us on sales@leisurebench.co.uk. Telephone 01949 862920.

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:

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• 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

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:

Outdoor Spaces

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Space-Ray - We Know Heat Space-Ray is an industry leading manufacturer and supplier of high quality infrared radiant and warm air heating systems. With electric heaters, radiant tube heaters and radiant ceramic plaque heaters we know we have the perfect heating solution for you.

Our heaters are popular for large open areas and buildings such as patios, restaurants, outdoor and indoor bars, sports facilities etc. Space-Ray heaters can help to maximize the revenue potential of outside areas by providing targeted heat where you need it. Many of our heaters are IP55 rated to protect against the elements, making sure your heaters stay in top working condition no matter the weather conditions.

We take pride in our entire family of commercial

heaters and our commitment to quality standards in the design, manufacture, and performance of Space-Ray products — heaters with low maintenance at a competitive price, and a proven record for long life.

We have a dedicated and experienced external and internal sales team ready and willing to help satisfy your heating needs.

Contact us now at info@spaceray.co.uk, www.spaceray.co.uk or 01473 830551

Enhance Your Customers' Experience with Ambimedia Ambimedia Ltd provide audiovisual solutions for a range of environments such as retail, leisure, education, corporate and hospitality venues. We provide a whole range of services from specification and design to installation and maintenance and we have our own, award winning digital signage and background music platforms.

We are experts in digital signage and work closely with our clients to create a customer experience which exceeds their expectations, whilst offering a cost effective, user friendly service.

In recent months, we have helped many businesses adapt to the changing requirements of the new regulations imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have a range of out-

door high-brightness, weatherproof TV’s which allow customers to watch TV even in bright sunlight, whilst also extending WIFI networks and installing outdoor sound systems to enhance the outdoor areas in anticipation of the summer season and upcoming sports events.

In addition to this, we also provide hand sanitizer stations with a built in advertising display, allowing venues to inform, advertise and promote to a captive audience whilst keeping your staff and customers safe.

Call us today to arrange a survey with one our technical experts and let us help you transform you venue.

T: 01246 906958 E: info@ambimedia.org W: www.ambimedia.org

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Design and Refit Get Ready For Summer With Waterproof Furniture Finding hardworking and stylish outdoor furniture has never been more important for the hospitality industry as it gears up for summer 2021. However, even the best of Great British Summers will include downpours, so waterproof furniture is a must.

Trent Furniture supply a wide variety of waterproof tables sealed to prevent swelling caused by rain.

The stylish stainless steel Vista Table has plenty of room to accommodate groups and is perfectly complemented by the smaller Alma Round Aluminium Table.

Or for a cool and contemporary look, why not opt for the new Cannes Outdoor Table constructed in aluminium with a black powder-coated finish?

The Cannes Outdoor Armchair and Cannes Outdoor Chair complement the Cannes table perfectly. Our Vista tables go with a wide variety of chairs but the water resistant Monaco Aluminium Stacking Chair is always a popular choice for sturdy style.

Whichever look you go for, our Vista, Monaco and Cannes ranges are easy to stack and look just as good in indoor settings.

To find out more about Trent Furniture’s great-value range of waterproof contract grade outdoor furniture, with prices starting from just £29.90 for the Monaco chair, please visit www.trentfurniture.co.uk or call 0116 2864 911.

Drakes Bar Furniture - UK Bar Furniture Supplier

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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.

Design and Refit

CardsSafe Pays for Itself!

“Average spend is up and chargeback has virtually disappeared after we installed CardsSafe, which really puts our customers’ minds at rest.”

Timothy, Bar Manager at Youngs.

For bars and restaurants, the CardsSafe system also helps to eliminate walkouts. For businesses who retain cards, the temptation for their customers is eliminated, saving the establishment hundreds of pounds per year.

To increase spend, there is a solution. Phil Dixon, previous advisor to the BII, was adamant that “If you want to increase spend, you must retain cards.” A simple solution, and one that could be a quick and easy win.

The CardsSafe system is specifically designed to securely retain customer credit, debit and ID cards while the cardholder runs a tab or trial a product or service.

Staff can retain customers’ bank cards, store them securely in the CardsSafe unit while their customers enjoy the facilities. When they are ready to return the items or pay their bill, they hand back the key, and their card is returned by staff.

CardsSafe is now used by over 5000 major brands in the UK. In the hospitality industries, Young’s pubs, Hilton Hotels, and many independent restaurants and bars.

The system helps them to increase spend, prevent walkouts and fight credit card fraud.

CardsSafe is affordable and pays for itself. Each unit, which contains ten card drawers, can be hired for just £9.99 per month. Each hire comes with customer service troubleshooting and free replacement keys.

Additional units can be added at any time. The question is, can you afford not to consider CardsSafe as a part of your business?

“Turnover increased significantly after CardsSafe was installed, and the system easily pays for itself.”

Siobhan, The Prodigal (Barracuda) Sign up to CardsSafe here https://cardssafe.com/account/create-account Or call 0845 500 1040

Seating with Wider Appeal from ILF Chairs make your customers want to come back?

Never fear, ILF Ltd. have the solution with a comprehensive selection of outdoor chairs and tables in many finishes and colours which we are able to supply quickly from either our UK location or our European location. We have selections of seating in aluminium, resin, plastic, polycarbonate, teak and imitation rattan plus, there are also tables and barstools for exterior use.

Hospitality has now got the Green light last to reopen outdoors from the 12th April. Will you be ready and able to cope with the rush? Will your Café, Restaurant, bar have the right outdoor ambience and comfort to stand out from the rest and

Whatever your outdoor furniture needs might be we at ILF are here to help.

Why not contact us on 01293 783783 or send an email to:- terry.kirk@ilfchairs.com

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Euroservice Trolley Manufacturers Celebrating 40 years of experience in the sale and manufacture of wooden trolleys for the catering trade, Euroservice trolley manufacturers have now acquired a worldwide reputation and still offer an extensive /comprehensive range of top quality wooden trol-

leys manufactured in the UK. Top quality is a priority in the production of all of our products and Euroservice are specialists in the manufacture of sturdy and beautiful looking trolleys which will grace any environment from the small privately owned restau-

rant to the splendid 3 to 5 star hotels, resorts and Residential homes.

Euroservice’s excellence in the manufacture of wooden trolleys is backed by a personal, efficient and friendly service second to none. We are always busy researching the needs of the market and launch new ranges according to market demands.

Whatever your needs you can be assured that Euroservice can cater for them and we look forward to your call.

Freephone: 0800 917 7943 www.euroservice-uk.com sales@euroservice-uk.com See the advert on page 2 for further information.

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 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.

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

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 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

Property and Professional

Capify - We’re Here To Support You For over 13 years, Capify has worked closely with the hospitality sector, providing them with much-needed funding when some of the more traditional routes for financing have been closed to them. Now is no different as we have a £50m fund to help your business recover as the economy begins to open up again.

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• purchasing new catering equipment Capify's lending criteria will consider the challenges of the past year for each business. Our flexibility means we will try and look beyond your credit history when assessing your application and instead, we will consider whether your business has the potential to deliver solid and sustained growth.

If you'd like to find out how much finance you qualify for to help you continue your post-Covid recovery, click here - https://bit.ly/3aLzPsg. You'll be taken to Capify's website, where you can get a no-obligation quote within minutes. You'll also be able to find out more information about the business loan and the unique and straightforward repayments.

A Capify business loan is easy to apply for and can be approved and paid out in as little as 24 hours. Our business loan's flexibility means that you can use it for any business purpose, such as; • managing short-term cash flow issues • purchasing extra food and drink • making your premises Covid safe

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For those businesses not yet open, you can register your interest in the fund today.

To find out more click here - https://bit.ly/3gVeFeO - or call us on 0800 151 0980 to speak to one of our specialist finance sale team.

• hiring additional staff

Weekly Figures Analysis & Reporting Phoenix Specialist Risk Solutions Service from David Hunter 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-ofcharge 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 well-used 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.

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 advert on page 17 or visit www.phoenixsrs.co.uk

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