Today’s news in brief – 01/05/25

Prezzo has been renamed to Prezzo Italian as part of a refreshed brand identity, as it aims to revitalise its store estate ahead of the chain’s 25-year anniversary. The rebrand involved a new logo and “extensive” refurbishment programme across its portfolio, starting with its Kensington restaurant in London. Prezzo Italian is yet to refurbish a further 15 restaurants this year, including its Cambridge, King’s Lynn, Chelmsford and Aberdeen sites. It also teased the launch of new restaurants. 

HIT Training has launched a new Hospitality Academy, a training initiative designed to help hospitality businesses raise service standards and develop future leaders. The launch is in response to the major challenges hospitality businesses across the country face, which HIT Training says has created “an urgent need” for businesses to invest in skilled, resilient teams. Developed in collaboration with industry experts Michael Heppell and Paul Martin,   The academy will deliver workshops, hands-on learning, and real-world training. 

Campus caterer Chartwell has secured a new partnership with The University of Kent, and will begin delivering catering services across the Canterbury campus from 1 June. Following a competitive tender process, the new collaboration will see modernised dining facilities and expanded food options for students, staff, and visitors alike. This partnership marks a key step in the university’s ongoing commitment to enriching the student experience, with plans to introduce more diverse menus and a greater variety of catering outlets.

The Stockbridge Tap in Edinburgh has been sold to new operators for £950k. The pub has been sold on behalf of Edinburgh Real Ale Company, a family-owned business, who owned and operated the business for over 20 years. The Stockbridge Tap is known for its welcoming atmosphere and for serving a wide selection of local and independent cask beers, as well as Scottish spirits. There is the opportunity to reintroduce a food offering and extend the current operating hours to capitalise on the high footfall.

A restaurant in the Eldon Chambers development has been brought to market for £450k. Located close to Nottingham city centre, the restaurant is currently operated by “acclaimed” local chef Ritchie Stainsby with his award-winning and plant-based restaurant No. Twelve, and was previously home to French restaurant Le Mistral. The restaurant is in good condition throughout, offering a “cosy and intimate” environment with 60 covers over two storeys as well as a large commercial kitchen.