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Hospitality is all about celebrations and positivity. Whether that’s a wedding, a birthday or a special occasion in one of our venues, to someone opening their very first pub, or someone taking their very first step in their career in the sector. Thats something to celebrate.

This month we see 30 new jobs created after a £250k redevelopment at Si for SimpsInns, Michael Bergson opening his new site in Edinburgh, Buzzworks Holdings hosting two fantastically themed parties for their staff in recognition of their hard work, and Manorview handing out a profit share to employees who have been in the company for 12 months or more... that is positivity. There is one thing that hospitality can be guilty of, and that is not being out there in the public eye telling everyone how great the sector is. I think we need to do more of it. Talking about how we saw our brilliant chefs working in soup kitchens over lockdowns, how we support our communities in fundraising, or how we support local producers who help us in preparing the fantastic food that our customers enjoy. We think that everyone knows it, but actually do they really know it, or understand how hard it is. After all, our customers come in for a good time, good food and drink, and a relaxing time, but what they maybe don’t understand is all the work that goes on behind the scenes to make it possible. As Kenny Blair once said to me “Stephen, we are the last show in town”, and I have never forgotten that, because it’s true, so let’s shout about our great teams, shout about the great experiences we give our consumers, and leave the rest of the dull stuff at the door for others to sort out Which leads me on to the next First Minister. I was asked the other day what kind of new First Minister I would like to see. For me it’s got to be someone who has the right attributes to be a leader, with passion and drive, but also with a bit of banter and fun in them too. Reopening the door to listening to businesses is going to be key, rather than ticking the box to say they consulted. Thats not how to boost the economy. So, who would I like? Well, someone that’s a mix of Winston Churchill for leadership, Alan Sugar for his passion for business and economy, and all mixed together with a bit of Billy Connolly...So, lets concentrate on getting the positive message out, that hospitality is not only the last show in town, but the ONLY show in town.