Today’s news in brief – 13/12/23

November saw a 4% year-on-year rise in sales for leading hospitality groups, the CGA RSM hospitality business tracker revealed, which has extended a 14-month streak of like-for-like sales increases. While pubs surged 5% and restaurants hit 4.9% growth, bars saw a 6.9% decline. Notably, London’s total sales growth of 3.5% trailed slightly behind the rest of the UK at 4.2%. Despite high costs, hopes for sustained real-terms growth in 2024 are emerging. 

Five Guys UK has joined the Zero Carbon Forum, uniting with over 60 industry operators to accelerate emission reduction and tackle climate change impacts. Members commit to reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 within their operations and 2040 across their supply chains. By aligning with the forum, Five Guys UK aims to contribute to sector-wide transformation towards net-zero emissions and environmental stewardship.

Proper Pubs, Admiral Taverns’ community-driven division, has opened its 200th pub, the Chrystal Bell in Gallowgate, Glasgow. With a £10m investment supporting local communities and 17 recent openings, the milestone highlights their growth since launching in August 2021. Director Mark Brooke emphasises community dedication, citing their ongoing charity support and local events. 

Sale e Pepe in Knightsbridge, London, will be relaunching under Thesleff Group’s guidance. Hamilford Design will lead the restaurant’s overhaul, capturing its evolution in a revamped interior. The menu will consist of traditional Italian familial dining with signature dishes like Vitello Milanese and Linguine all’Aragosta will transition into larger shared portions. The restaurant is set for a February 2024 reopening.