As we step into March, it’s time for some more high profile interviews , venue features and of course challenges for the industry to discuss and meet head on. This month, we are thrilled to bring you a rich blend of stories, insights, and features that will surely captivate and inspire.
Our spotlight this month shines brightly on Michael Davern, the General Manager of Seaton House in the picturesque St Andrews. Discover the magic and excellence that Michael brings to this esteemed establishment. We delve into his journey, the challenges he faces, and his vision for making Seaton House a beacon of hospitality.
In the culinary world, we explore The Fallachan Kitchen. Known for its innovative approach to Scottish cuisine, this gem of a restaurant is redefining dining experiences. For lovers of laughter, we offer an exclusive feature on the Glasgow International Comedy Festival. Get ready to chuckle and guffaw as we present a sneak peek into the festival’s line-up and what makes it a must-attend event for comedy enthusiasts.
But that’s not all—our pages are brimming with much more! From industry news to expert insights from our partners at Maitre’D & Nationwide Energy Consultants and upcoming events, the March edition promises something for everyone in the modern Ontrade.
As always STAY POSITIVE STAY COLLABORATIVE STAY TOGETHER HAVE A GREAT MARCH JUSTIN WINGATE
Justin Wingate Director at TopGunMedia
Hayley Ewing
Head
of Events - events@topgunmedia.co.uk
Fiona Gauld Production - info@topgunmedia.co.uk
For press enquires or advertising opportunists please call or email: Email: info@topgunmedia.co.uk Telephone: 0141 556 4111
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MICHAEL DAVERN GENERAL MANAGER
SEATON HOUSE ST ANDREWS THE FALLACHAN KITCHEN A CHEFS TABLE WHERE INNOVATION AND PASSION CREATE A STUNNING EXPERIENCE COMEDY FESTIVAL RAISING A MUCH NEEDED SMILE
HEAD OF GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL MAKES OUTRAGEOUS CLAIMS REGARDING THE NIGHT TIME INDUSTRY
NATALIE JAMES HONOURED WITH AWARD AT THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS
Renowned singer and host Natalie James was celebrated last night at the prestigious People’s Choice Awards, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central.
The evening shone brightly as Natalie James secured the runner-up position in Best Entertainment Act category adding yet another accolade to her already impressive career.
The People’s Choice Awards, which recognises the public’s favourites across various entertainment fields, saw a gathering of illustrious personalities from around the country. Natalie James, known for her captivating performances on tv and at high profile events was acknowledged for her stand out performances over the last year marking this a memorable milestone in her career.
Upon receiving the award, Natalie expressed her gratitude to her fans and peers alike, stating, “I am incredibly honoured to be recognised and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote, I’m really humbled and grateful .
For me I just love to perform and put on a show , seeing people enjoy a performance really matters to me “
The event was marked by stunning performances and heartfelt speeches, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity within the entertainment industry. Natalie’s recognition as a runner-up emphasises her enduring popularity and impact on audiences wherever she performs.
Natalie’s award serves as a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the powerful connection she has cultivated with her audiences from performances at the OnTrade Awards duetting with the iconic East 17 as well as hosting the evening , to her stunning performance headlining The Cancer Uk Christmas Concert in Glasgow Cathedral and who can forget her amazing televised performance with music legend Chaka Khan amongst many others.
Britain’s late-night hospitality sector has been hit by hundreds of closures in the last year—but a wave of new bars and experiential venues is revitalising the evening economy.
Those are among the takeaways from the first edition of the Night Time Economy Market Monitor, an exclusive new series of reports from CGA by NIQ and the Night Time Industries Association.
It reveals as at December 2024 Britain had 2,264 nightclubs, late-night bars and casinos - 2.8% fewer than at the end of 2023, and 25.2% down on the pre-COVID level of March 2020. Nightclubs have borne the brunt of these closures, with numbers having dropped 33.2%. It follows the seismic impacts that COVID lockdowns, high inflation and pressure on consumer spending have all had on late-night businesses over the past five years.
However, venues in the wider evening economy, which also includes sites where evenings form a major part of trading, rose by 3.9% to 16,004 in 2024—equivalent to around 12 net new openings every week. Venues offering competitive socialising and other interactive experiences have been among the fastest growing of any hospitality channel in recent years.
CAMERONBRIDGE DISTILLERY SET FOR OVER 90% EMISSIONS REDUCTION
Diageo’s Cameronbridge Distillery, one of the largest grain whisky producers in Europe which also produces Gordons, Tanqueray and Smirnoff, is launching a multimillion-pound decarbonisation project to electrify its operations and drastically reduce its carbon emissions by more than 90%.
Facilitated by SP Energy Networks (SPEN), the project is one of Scotland’s largest electricity uplifts, and will save an expected 33,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, compared to the distillery’s 2020 baseline emissions.
Upon completion, the project will meet Cameronbridge’s 17.4MW annual energy needs entirely through renewable energy – enough to power 11,0000 homes – and, as part of Diageo’s Spirit of Progress action plan, the project is another step on its plan to reach net zero across direct operations by 2030
The project will comprise two stages:
Stage 1: Electricity supply uplift to dramatically increase electricity connectivity to Cameronbridge over two years
Stage 2: Replacing gas-powered assets at Cameronbridge on an ongoing basis.
Recently celebrating its 200th anniversary, Cameronbridge contributes single grain whisky to some of Diageo’s much-loved Scotch brands including Johnnie Walker, and produces Smirnoff, Gordon’s and Tanqueray which are exported around the world.
Diageo is a major local employer and, through collaboration with Fife Council, is a key driver of local economic growth, creating jobs and solidifying Fife’s
role as a hub for green innovation. The Cameronbridge electrification project will significantly further reduce the distillery’s environmental footprint through a renewable energy solution.
“We are incredibly proud of this transformative project that will fuel our operations in a more sustainable, more energyefficient way for the next 200 years,” said Alex Robertson, Cameronbridge Operations Director for Diageo.
“This multi-million-pound investment is a significant step towards our 2030 ambition of net zero emissions in our direct operations and highlights our commitment to environmental stewardship. Being able to cut the site’s emissions by more than 90% is an incredible incentive, and we view this initiative as a significant step towards our net zero goals.”
“We’re grateful to be working with supportive partners in SP Energy Networks (SPEN) and InvestFife to undertake this major electrification project.”
Jack Evans, District General Manager for Central and Fife District at SP Energy Networks, added: “We’re proud to be part of enabling industry to transition towards a greener future. This project sees us facilitate Diageo’s drive to decarbonisation.”
Fife Council has also hailed the project as a cornerstone of the ‘InvestFife’ initiative which aims to drive local economic growth and position the region as a leader in green energy.
Diageo’s latest investment builds on its renewable energy efforts in Fife, including a bio-energy facility at Cameronbridge that generates heat and power from distillery by-products, and an 8,000-panel solar array at its Leven packaging plant, supplying up to 22% of the site’s annual electricity needs—rising to 60% in summer.
Councillor Altany Craik, Fife Council SpokespersonFinance, Economy & Strategic Planning, added: “Diageo’s commitment to invest in such renewable energy solutions within Levemnouth here in Fife sets a powerful example for others to follow. This project is a testament to the innovation and ambition driving investment in Fife but is also a welcome example of how Fife Council – via our economic development team and SPEN as delivery partners – have been able to support and enable industry energy needs, whilst also recognising the need for stewardship of our environment.
MICHAEL DAVERN
GENERAL MANAGER SEATON HOUSE ST ANDREWS
This month our one to one interview is with the hugely experienced and respected Michael Davern on his journey through the industry and discusses the guest experience he believes is so important.
I’ve enjoyed an extensive career working in some of the world’s most iconic hotels including Fancourt in South Africa, Sandy Lane in Barbados and The K Club in Kildare. As CEO of The K Club, I gained considerable experience in golf and marquee tournaments, which makes my new role at Seaton House in St Andrews, the Home of Golf, even more exciting.
In 1991 I joined the opening team of the prestigious K Club which would go on to become Ireland’s first five AA Red Star hotel. In 1997 I moved to South Africa to take up my first General Manager position at the award-winning golf resort, Fancourt, before joining the iconic Sandy Lane Hotel in Barbados for its reopening in 2001. There was a homecoming in 2005 as I returned to The K Club as CEO, just a year before we hosted the Ryder Cup. Following the sale of The K Club I spent a few years in Dublin overseeing the transformation and establishment of Ireland’s first Anantara brand at The Marker before joining Valor Hospitality Partners to become General Manager of Seaton House.
Luxury clients nowadays demand a new level of authenticity and want to connect with the destination and people so much more. It is no longer about guestroom fit out but about how the discerning guest connects with the locale through touch points at the property.
At Seaton House, our lovingly restored property has deep roots in the historic town of St Andrews and our guests can expect a warm Scottish welcome and the
opportunity to embrace authentic local experiences helping them get under the skin of this remarkable part of the world. We are fortunate in this part of Scotland to have a wealth of unique and interesting local artisan providers from local beach saunas, seaweed foraging and private country estates to give a deeper insight to what makes Fife so special.
Sustainability is also at the forefront of guests’ minds and has progressed well beyond the removal of plastic in an operation which was top of our agenda back in 2019. I am enthralled by the concept of Zeal, the new hotel Valor Hospitality is opening soon in Exeter. It will be a fully sustainable and carbon neutral hotel.
Multigenerational travel continues to grow, and these guests are seeking these authentic experiences in independent and non-branded hotels, personal atmosphere and bespoke service.
It is now a necessity that guests feel and experience the destination through the hotel. Our guests are culturally curious and enjoy family and multigenerational travel. At Seaton House we have curated many such experiences from wild swimming in the sea pool just beneath our hotel with an expert if required or providing the dry robes, towels, sliders and hot drinks through our concierge service. Similar experiences are provided at our sister hotel in Northern Ireland named Dunluce Lodge, which is also due to open in March.
My favourite experience though, and the one that I
“ Luxury clients nowadays demand a new level of authenticity and want to connect with the destination and people so much more. It is no longer about guestroom fit out but about how the discerning guest connects with the locale through touch points at the property.”
believe guests will love, is the private and curated visit to the very special Atelier of Arminta Campbell with the cashmere being woven by hand with and for you. Other experiences can also be as simple as oyster shucking with our chefs with a glass of Guinness or learning to pour that glass of Guinness by our resident expert none other than myself of course - a proud Tipperary man! However, you’ll have to come and stay at Seaton House to really experience these.
The world has experienced a sustained period of geopolitical instability which has had a knock-on impact on the hospitality industry. Consistency around energy and food prices as well as further reductions in inflations will all contribute to improving confidence for travellers.
Embracing technology, and in particular AI, has the potential to really help our industry. There has been
such a fast transition to AI for many sectors, but I think it is important to really take some time and understand the benefits it can bring. At Seaton House everything we do is geared towards providing better guest and team experiences and if AI can support this without a sacrifice in the personal and warm Scottish hospitality we provide, then it is something we should explore.
I have worked for independent and non-branded hotels my whole career, but to experience the value a company like Valor Hospitality Partners can bring to the table has been eye-opening and truly exciting. Valor provides support across multiple areas all whilst ensuring a hotel such as Seaton House retain their independence and integrity. I have been in this industry a long time, but it is refreshing to work with the Valor team, and I am delighted to continue learning every day at Seaton House.
FEEL THE BUZZ
ENERGY COSTS FALL RAPIDLY
While UK & European gas reserves are now at 17% & 42% respectively. Gas commodity costs are 17% lower and electricity 12% down on last week.
COMMODITY COST OUTLOOK
Despite European gas storage levels continuing to decline, and UK reserves falling to a concerning level. The market has taken comfort from:-
• President Trumps focus on ending the war in Ukraine. His apparently pro-Russian approach means that any settlement will swiftly see the end of sanctions on gas.
• Any return to pipeline gas from Russia will intensify the downward trend in costs.
• The EU is also reviewing its policy requiring all member states to have 90% storage levels by 1ST November as this has kept gas prices very high for the summer period.
COMMODITY MARKET VOLATILITY
The sudden downward shift in costs is due to market sentiment rather than tangible changes in the supply market.
We are set for a period of much milder weather with more renewable generation and less gas for heating demand. It’s important to realise that with UK reserves at 17% there is a critical need to rapidly re-stock.
Should the prospect of a settlement of the Ukraine/ Russia conflict fail to materialise. Sentiment and speculators are likely to push the cost of energy higher still.
CONTRACT RATE OUTLOOK
Unfortunately, contract rates have continued to rise. They don’t immediately follow commodity trends and suppliers will want greater certainty before they lower costs.
Operators are still at risk of prices continuing to rise and the market remains highly volatile. Any businesses in their contract renewal period are advised to review their options. If renewal costs are currently affordable, budget certainty may be a better option than waiting for prices to fall. It’s also important to consider the T&Cs of suppliers. Many pubs have found that the sharp practices of their suppliers have imposed additional costs.
Mark McCormack, Nationwide Energy’s Scottish consultant can explain the key features of different supplier contracts alongside a market review and updates on available prices. He can also support any operators struggling to pay current rates or are at risk of default.
Or alternatively for the UK-wide On Trade Magazine
Nationwide Energy’s field consultants and renewal advisors can explain the key features of different supplier contracts alongside a market review, and updates on available prices. We can also support any operators struggling to pay current rates or are at risk of default.
• Graph produced by Cornwall Insight in conjunction with Drax Energy Solutions 21/02/25
THE FALLACHAN KITCHEN
A CHEFS TABLE WHERE INNOVATION AND PASSION CREATE A STUNNING EXPERIENCE
Craig Grozier is a Scottish chef and the founder of Fallachan, a unique culinary venture that blends private chef services with an intimate chef’s table restaurant experience. Located in the iconic Arches by SWG3 in Glasgow, Fallachan Kitchen offers an exclusive setting where Craig showcases his passion for wild, local, and seasonal Scottish cuisine.
Driven by a deep commitment to sustainability and authenticity, Craig works closely with local farmers, butchers, and fishermen, sourcing the finest ingredients for his carefully crafted menus. His approach to cooking goes beyond the kitchen—he often forages for wild produce, ensuring that each dish is a true reflection of Scotland’s rich natural terroir.
Whether preparing meals for private clients or curating exquisite experiences in his Fallachan Kitchen, Craig brings a ferocious passion for the land and its ingredients, creating unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate the best of Scotland’s wild larder.
Our focus as always been on the food first and foremost, and really we have been perfecting that food offering since we founded Fallachan as a private dining business almost 13 years ago, so i think when we opened the restaurant, we hit the ground running with our style, ethos and service.
I think with nearly every restaurant in the UK - ensuring our
staff are paid fairly, not working too many hours, ensuring we are busy enough, and keeping our bills as low as possible. Its a really tricky terrain just now to try and make any hospitality business work!
We feel it’s really important, the nature of dining in our open kitchen is to be immersed in the experience, the sounds, smells and sights you wouldn’t normally see. We believe guests are looking for something different when they eat out, and we hope our Fallachan Kitchen provides that.
We wanted guests to be able to relax in a comfortable setting and enjoy dining like in a restaurant, but still keep in mind that its a functioning kitchen. We’re still working on developing our little space to maximise both the guest experience and allowing us to cook the best food possible.
Our Spring bookings for April and May open tomorrow, Friday 7th February, and we have just annouced that we will be opening two additional services each week from Wednesday 12th March - Wednesday evenings and Friday lunch, where we will serve our six-course tasting menu, ideal for a lunch time or mid-week experience. It’s an exciting time of year when winter is properly over and the lighter nights and warmer days are approaching! We’ve got big plans for our menus coming up, as well as some events in Glasgow and in our little archway, so stay tuned!
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COMEDY FESTIVAL
RAISING A MUCH NEEDED SMILE
e take a look at this years Glasgow International Comedy Festival and what it means for the city
When: 12th - 30th March 2025
Venues: over 40 venues across the city from Oran Mor to Barrowland Ballroom, The Stand, King’s Theatre, Blackfriars, SEC Armadillo, The Social Hub and more 2025 festival tickets are on sale via www.glasgowcomedyfestival.com.
Glasgow International Comedy Festival will celebrate Glasgow as the ‘funniest city in the world’ from 12th - 30th March 2025 with shows taking place across city including Paddy McDonnell, Jenny Eclair, Chris Forbes, Susie McCabe, Catherine Bohart, Paul Black, Darren Connell, Jamie MacDonald, Fred MacAulay, Marjolein Robertson and more.
The 2025 festival will feature shows across every genre of comedy from traditional stand-up, live podcasts, clowning, improv, theatre, kids shows, musicals and more, with shows for all age ranges hosted in venues across the city.
Over 40 venues will host Glasgow International Comedy Festival events with shows in Barras Art and Design, Barrowland Ballroom, Blackfriars, Glasgow Film Theatre, King’s Theatre, Platform, Oran Mor, SEC Armadillo, Flying Duck, Tennent’s Bar, The Old Hairdressers, The Stand Comedy Club, The Social Hub, Van Winkle West End and more.
GICF has been running for over two decades, bringing top class comics from around the world to the city, showcasing both Scottish talent and international comedians. The festival distributes one award - the Sir Billy Connolly Spirit of Glasgow Award - with previous winners including Janey Godley and Susie McCabe. This year’s winner will be announced at the GICF Comedy Gala on Sunday 30th March. The event is Scotland’s largest dedicated comedy festival, with this year set to be its biggest ever encompassing over 550 shows.
LESS TO WORRY ABOUT AND A HELPING HAND – WOULDN’T THAT BE NICE!
Relieving pressure on licensed trade operators countywide is always welcomed. We know that there have been countless challenges to licensed trade operators throughout the UK, regardless of geography and customer base. This comes from all sides, including economy and challenges of a customer base with less disposable income due to increased cost of living. It has also, undoubtedly, been affected by Covid and the knock on affect that had. Throughout the UK we see infrastructure challenges cause issues for licensed trade and hospitality operators, such as decreased public transport, reduction of late night transport links and what can often feel like constant additional regulation. This Is in an for an industry which is already feeling pressure.
Joanna, Millar, from The Licensing Company, looks at how to remove some admin challenges from your business, avoid being closed, or your premises licence reviewed, due to training and personal licence holder, blips, and how she can help.
Every business has aspects of the operation which are administrative, and can feel like a waste of time, but are really important to the business.
For licensed premises throughout the UK, personal licence holders are a necessity to the business. Training, appointment of managers on licenses and staff training all fall into that category.
All operators want to be welcoming to licensing standards, officers and police when premises visits are carried out. But one of the worst things is if those officers tell a business that the premises have to stop selling alcohol due to their manager not being properly appointed or the manager training and/or personal licence having lapsed. It is a heart stopping moment for any operator, but unfortunately all too frequent.
Checks on personal licences and proper appointment of managers are carried out by local authorities throughout the UK, however, we are aware that a number of Licensing Boards in Scotland are going through a process of specific checking at present. This has resulted in issues being flagged. In one
council area in Scotland it was established there were 400 managers appointed on licences but their personal licences had, in fact, been revoked, either due to lack of training or not being renewed. That is 400 premises potentially told to stop selling alcohol immediately. There is no grace period where the manager is not properly appointed or their personal licence is no longer valid.
It is easy to think that would never happen to your organisation, and if you have a robust and well documented system for ensuring all managers, staff, personal licence holders and licenses are kept up to date then put yourself on the back. For many operators, this is a source of stress. But it need not be.
We offer a full service training, personal licence application and manager appointment system. While it remains the premises licence holders obligation to ensure they have managers in place, we will also liaise with the senior management team in the business every three months to check in about new staff and changes within the operation. That avoids issues of lapsed training or a manager change being overlooked and can avoid serious consequences, such as loss of income.
In Scotland, each premises licence, must have a designated premises manager, known as a DPM. To be named on a licence as a DPM, that person must hold a Scottish personal
WHAT WE DO:
ADVICE ON PERSONAL AND PREMISES LICENCES
DRAFTING AND LODGING APPLICATIONS
ATTENDANCE AT CONTENTIOUS HEARINGS
ADVICE ON BUSINESS STRUCTURES FOR LICENSED PREMISES
TRAINING AND MANAGEMENT OF STAFF PERSONAL LICENCES
licence. Each personal licence holder can only be manager on one premises, which can put pressure on organisations. It helps to ensure there are some backup managers with personal licences in place.
In Scotland, if a premises manager leaves, as long as that is intimated by the premises licence holder within 7 days of them leaving, there is a 6 week ‘grace’ period in which to identify a new manager. Unfortunately, that is a very short period to take on new staff, put them through personal licence training, apply for their personal licence and have it granted.
A benefit is that the change of manager application is called a “deemed“ grant. That means as soon as it is lodged, and the fee is paid, the application is effective and the manager is named. That avoids any delay or issues. It also means, in theory, that can be done out of normal business hours, although some licensing authorities do not accept that position.
To hold a personal licence in Scotland, you must go through the Scottish personal licence training. This is a specific course which must be taken and an exam passed. The exam must be sat in “exam conditions“ either with a qualified tutor or through an online exam with very strict video invigilation. Once the exam has been passed, a lot of people think that is the end of the process. That, alone, is not enough. A personal licence has to be applied for to the council area in which the applicant lives. It does not matter if they then move. For example, if someone lived in Inverness, they initially apply to Highland Council for their personal licence. If they then moved to work in Glasgow, they do not have to transfer the licence –it is still valid through the whole of Scotland. It just means they need to intimate a change of address to Highland licensing board.
The Scottish system is also slightly different as Licensing Boards regulate liquor licensing whereas that is done local authorities in England and Wales.
as the training is done within each five year anniversary of the licence, the holder has three additional months to forward a copy of that training to licensing.
That should be simple but there are a number of complications. Some of the training providers do not date the certificate date the Training took place. This leads to issues. That is where we come in. Because we deal with the process for operators from start to finish, from training, exam, personal licence application to appointment as manager, we are able to deal with all of the administration and address any queries.
Unlike England, where there is now no requirement to do refresher, training or renew personal licences, in Scotland, personal licences still have to be renewed every 10 years. If not done, the personal licence will fall and the holder has to reapply. Renewal must be done at least three months before the renewal date. If not, then it is late and then cannot be renewed so a new licence also has to be applied for. If that person is a named manager, that has implications for their for the business/bosses, as well as for the personal licence holder themselves.
In England and Wales, the personal licence training is called APLH, Award for personal licence holders. The designated manager is the DPS, designated premises supervisor. In England and Wales, there is no requirement for additional training and renewal. That makes the challenges of DPS appointment in England, somewhat easier than their Scottish counterparts.
Personal licences can still be lost in England and Wales if there are issues with the operation by the person themselves, or in relation to their work at premises. They could then have their licence suspended or revoked and that could leave operators in a position where they needed to have back up.
Once a personal licence is granted in Scotland, that is still not the end of the story and this is where a lot of operators and personal licence holders fall down. In Scotland, unlike England and Wales, further training has to be done every five years. This is called the Refresher training. This has to be done and intimated to the relevant Licensing Board. As long
To avoid finding yourself in a position where you have new manager with no licence, have to stop selling alcohol, or waking up in the early hours worrying about refresher training and personal licence renewals, contact Joanna today. Our full service, pragmatic approach, and three monthly review calls mean the training within your organisation need not be something to keep you awake at night. For further information call Joanna at The Licensing Company on 07747 653417 or email on info@thelicensing.company
HEAD OF GLASGOW CITY COUNCIL MAKES OUTRAGEOUS CLAIMS REGARDING THE NIGHT TIME INDUSTRY
In a bold statement on LEZ and air quality issues Glasgow, City Council leader Susan Aitken delivered a powerful statement highlighting the devastating impact of air pollution on the health of Glaswegians, citing approximately 300 deaths annually attributable to poor air quality apparently laying the blame at the door of hospitality & the night time industry.
“We can’t have a city centre economy that kills people and has a level of air pollution that kills approximately 300 Glaswegians a year. If that was our water we wouldn’t accept it,”Aitken stated emphatically, drawing a stark comparison to underscore the severity of the issue.
Aitken’s announcement has been met with widespread astonishment and anger from the hospitality and night time industries.
Head of OnTrade Magazine Justin Wingate challenged the council leader to back up these claims and said “I think the comments by Susan Aitken are outrageous, to state that the night time economy is responsible for people losing their lives is utterly wrong and shows what many believe across
the industry that the sector has become the “whipping boy “for the council. “
He continued, “The independent analysis that has been carried out show that LEZ has been nothing more than a money making scheme for the council and has not only been badly implemented but has massive inconsistencies in it’s remits.
Parking charges in the city centre have soared actively discouraging people from coming into town whilst driving traffic and footfall to out of town shopping centres where there and a multitude of free parking spaces, it’s no surprise that sites like these have footfall up by over 33% whilst footfall to city city centre venues and down by more than 40% on average. “
Speaking about the impact to businesses the OnTrade boss stated “Our city, like many across the uk have been decimated, most areas look like something out of a Hollywood apocalypse movie, our roads are dangerous to drive on, and businesses that pay high rates to operate city centre venues in hospitality & retail are having their livelihoods utterly destroyed, take the alleged “upgrading of Sauchiehall st for example, millions spent with no obvious change to the area, whoever the impact to business in the area over the period that the work has been carried out has been catastrophic.
In my opinion Susan Aitken and Glasgow City Council are “killing the economy of Glasgow and destroying businesses
that drive that economy in the process.“
The council also announced plans to engage with local businesses and communities to implement greener practices and promote sustainable urban development. By prioritising environmental health, Glasgow aims to set a precedent for other cities facing similar challenges.
As Glasgow prepares to host the upcoming Climate Action Summit, the council’s decisive actions highlight its dedication to becoming a leading city in environmental sustainability. “Our city’s future depends on the health of our environment and our people,”Aitken concluded. “We must act now to ensure a safe and prosperous future for all Glaswegians.”
“ In my opinion Susan Aitken and Glasgow City Council are killing the economy of Glasgow and destroying businesses that drive that economy in the process.”
MAITRE’D: A TRUE ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES MADE TO ORDER
As hospitality businesses in the UK continue to navigate an increasingly competitive market, cost efficiency and operational reliability have never been more critical. Restaurateurs are seeking solutions that not only streamline their operations but also provide long-term financial benefits.
At Maitre’D, we understand these challenges and have built our business on delivering personalised, transparent and cost-effective solutions that help our clients thrive.
A Tailored Approach to Hospitality Management
At Maitre’D, we understand that no two businesses are alike. That’s why we begin every partnership with an in-depth, face-to-face consultation. Our team takes the time to understand your unique challenges and goals, ensuring that the solution we provide is perfectly tailored to your needs.
A key part of our sales process is our comparative cost analysis. We don’t just offer POS and payment processing solutions - we show you, with real numbers, how much you could save by switching to Maitre’D’s payment processing solution. In 95% of cases, our clients reduce their overall costs significantly. We believe in full transparency, eliminating the hidden fees and escalating charges that are all too common in the industry.
A Relationship-Driven Business Model
Our clients are more than just account numbers - they are valued relationships we nurture and cherish. Unlike providers who outsource their sales and customer service, our entire team, from sales to technical support, is in-house. That means every client deals with the same dedicated representative who understands their business, their challenges and their goals.
This personalised approach fosters strong, lasting relationships between our team and our customers. Our UK-based staff have been with us for years, providing consistency and expertise that businesses can rely on. When a client calls for support, they know exactly who they’re speaking to - a real person who understands their needs, not a third-party call centre agent with no direct connection to their account.
Delivering Value Beyond the Transaction
Maitre’D doesn’t just sell a system. We take the time to educate our clients on the intricacies of payment processing. Many hospitality businesses are unaware of the hidden costs that come with certain payment solutions. We help them understand transaction fees, the risks of low introductory pricing and how staged pricing and flexible payment terms can work in their favour.
Our technology is backed by high-quality hardware, seamless integrations and ongoing support to ensure that businesses get the most out of their investment. Unlike competitors that offer basic, DIY solutions with no installation or training, we provide in-person demonstrations, hands-on training and expert installation services to set businesses up for success from day one.
Standing Out from the Competition
In an industry where cost-cutting often comes at the expense of service and reliability, our team remains committed to providing premium value without surprise fees or compromised quality. While competitors may offer seemingly low-cost solutions, many businesses quickly discover hidden costs, rising processing fees and impersonal customer support.
Maitre’D sets itself apart with a commitment to honesty: we believe in fair, transparent pricing with no unexpected increases. Our flexible payment structures and competitive rates ensure that businesses can plan their finances with confidence, without the fear of costs skyrocketing after the initial sign-up period.
All-in-One Solutions for Hospitality Establishments
Maitre’D offers a range of solutions designed to meet the needs of modern hospitality businesses Our robust and feature-rich point-of-sale system streamlines operations, optimises workflows and provides real-time analytics to help businesses make informed decisions. The integrated payment processing solution ensures quick and secure transactions with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. For businesses seeking a more flexible option, our standalone payment processing solution allows clients to manage transactions independently while maintaining transparency and reliability.
Our solutions are designed to provide a hassle-free experience with in-person installations, expert training and ongoing support to ensure businesses get the most out of their investment.
A PARTNER IN YOUR SUCCESS
Maitre’D isn’t just about POS systems; we are here to empower businesses with tailored solutions and unwavering support. By offering in-person installations, face-to-face training and continuous support, we ensure that businesses get the most value from their POS and payment processing solutions. Our longevity in the market and the tenure of our team speak to our unwavering commitment to quality and service.
As hospitality businesses across the UK strive for efficiency and cost savings in 2025, Maitre’D stands ready to deliver a smarter, more reliable way forward. Discover how we can help your business save money, operate more efficiently and build lasting relationships.
