Innovation
We cover the ideas, technologies, and operational changes driving innovation across the UK foodservice sector. From kitchen automation and AI-driven ordering to new menu formats, digital loyalty schemes, sustainable packaging, and service model evolution, this brings together the developments transforming how restaurants, pubs, bars, cafés, and catering firms do business. Whether you’re looking to boost efficiency, improve guest experience, or stay competitive, we report on practical innovations with real-world application, curated for chefs, operators, F&B executives, and hospitality leaders shaping the future of service.
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Aug- 2024 -22 AugustNews
Today’s news in brief – 22/08/24
Punch Pubs and Co has named Andy Spencer its new CEO, effective from 27 September. It comes after current CEO Clive Chesser will be moving on to the same role at the Pure Gym Group after six years at the pub operator. Spencer has over 20 years of experience in…
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22 AugustCafes and Coffee Shops
Boston Tea Party FY sales fall 5% to £21.7m
Independent café group, Boston Tea Party, has reported a 5% drop in net sales to £21.7m from £22.9m during the year to 18 October 2023. The company has attributed its performance to the long-term negative effects on the high street, post-pandemic changes to work patterns which have impacted footfall, as…
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22 AugustPubs and Bars
Punch Pubs and Co appoints Andy Spencer as CEO
UK pub group Punch Pubs and Co has announced the appointment of current chief operating officer Andy Spencer to the role of chief executive officer. Spencer will assume the role of CEO on 27 September, succeeding current CEO Clive Chesser who is stepping down after six successful years to become…
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20 AugustCafes and Coffee Shops
Thomas Kelly joins Espresso House as CEO
Espresso House, the premium café and coffee brand in the Nordics, has announced the appointment of Thomas Kelly as its new group chief executive officer, starting from September 2024. The news comes after Honest Burgers promoted Kelly from CEO to chair within a year’s time. Kelly will remain chair while…
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16 AugustFood and Drink
WHSmith rolls out café format amid food-to-go popularity
WHSmith has launched Smith’s Kitchen, a new own-brand café format that will offer dine-in and takeaway options, outside of travel locations. Smith’s Kitchen is the latest major food and drink launch this year, as WHSmith aims to expand its offering for customers and partners. According to the retailer, the new…
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14 AugustPeople
Elior UK appoints chief information officer
Contract catering company, Elior UK, has announced the appointment of Laura Kendrick to the role of chief information officer. She joins the group from IPG Mediabrands, where she led IT and technology for the EMEA region, and was also responsible for bringing together the UK and European IT teams to…
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14 AugustPeople
Starbucks appoints Chipotle boss as new CEO
Starbucks has announced the appointment of Brian Niccol to the role of chairman and CEO, effective from 9 September this year. The news comes as Laxman Narasimhan is stepping down from his role as CEO and as a member of the board with immediate effect. In the meantime, CFO Rachel…
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9 AugustRestaurants
The Salad Project to open sixth site on Fenchurch Street
The Salad Project will be opening its sixth location on London’s Fenchurch Street on 16 August. Fenchurch Street will not only serve as one of the chain’s healthy lunch spots, but will also house The Salad Project Training Academy and the SP Testing Lab for “the latest recipe development and…
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7 AugustNews
Yum Brands revenue hits $1.7bn in Q2
Yum Brands, which owns KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and Habit Burger Grill, has reported a 4% revenue growth to $1.7bn (£1.3bn) for the second quarter ended 30 June 2024. Worldwide system sales grew 3% including a 1% same-store sales decline. GAAP operating profit for the group increased 6% to…
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6 AugustPeople
Papa John’s names Todd Penegor as new president and CEO
Papa John’s has announced the appointment of Todd Penegor as its new president and chief executive officer, effective immediately. Penegor succeeds interim CEO Ravi Thanawala in the role. Having held the role since March of this year, Thanawala will continue at the group in his chief financial officer role. Having…
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