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- 2020 -7 AugustComment
The right menu for reducing bacterial transmission
Studies have shown that some of the ‘germiest’ things on a menu may literally be the menu itself! Indeed, a study* by Charles Gerba from the University of Arizona revealed that menus carried the most amount of germs, with an average count of 185,000 bacteria. He claimed that there are…
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Jul- 2020 -31 JulyCoronavirus
Getting your hospitality businesses in touch with the low touch economy
After months of difficulty, uncertainty, and a precarious balancing act at the edge of business survival, the UK’s hospitality sector may finally be seeing the sun break through the storm clouds. Chancellor Rishi Sunak brought welcome news for the suffering sector with a VAT cut for hotels, restaurants, and other…
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21 JulyComment
How to create a safe washroom experience when re-opening
Hospitality businesses across the country were naturally excited by the Prime Minister’s announcement that pubs, cafes and restaurants could re-open on 4 July. No doubt most want to get back up and running as quickly as possible and are busy working to ensure they comply with the government guidance. One…
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2 JulyComment
A global problem needs a futuristic solution
Even before COVID-19, there was a notable increase in the number of food and drink manufacturers looking to safeguard quality and aid productivity by using collaborative robots with vision on their production line. They had raised the bar on innovation, ensuring competitiveness in the marketplace. Usually, however, they would use…
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May- 2020 -29 MayCatering Companies
Compass Group acquires digital start-up Feedr
Compass Group UK and Ireland has acquired food and health technology start-up, Feedr, in a move to “accelerate its digital transformation”. The group said the deal was completed in early March 2020 and will play a key role in reshaping the companies “return to work” strategy. It added that it…
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Apr- 2020 -21 AprilComment
Helping small hospitality businesses in the age of coronavirus
A few weeks ago we started LocalSmallBusinesses.co.uk, a platform to generate cash flow for independent London businesses by offering services for future use. Allowing loyal customers to support their favourite places so that when this nightmare is over London remains the exciting and diverse city we all love. Many small…
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Mar- 2020 -11 MarchRestaurants
Knights Brasserie reopens following extensive refurb
The Lumley Castle hotel, located in Durham, has reopened its Knights Brasserie restaurant after an extensive six-week programme of refurbishment. The project was overseen by the property’s new general manager, Gordon Cartwright, who said “no expense had been spared” in creating one of the North East’s most “luxurious and innovative”…
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6 MarchCatering Companies
Gather & Gather agrees contract with Southampton Football Club
Catering and events firm Gather and Gather has announced it has reached an agreement with Gather and Gather to enter into a new catering and events partnership. Gather and Gather, which launched in 2013, is part of CH&CO, a specialist catering and hospitality company that holds a Royal Warrant for…
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Feb- 2020 -25 FebruaryRestaurants
Chiquito to expand menu with further vegan alternatives
Mexican restaurant Chiquito has announced an expansion of its vegan dishes on its breakfast and kids menu. The restaurant attributes the menu expansion to the “huge success of Veganuary”, the extra ‘meat-free’ and vegan dishes will join the menu which has been designed to meet consumer demands for “more delicious…
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13 FebruaryRestaurants
First DC superhero-inspired ‘immersive’ restaurant to open in London
Movie studio Warner Bros. has revealed that the first-ever DC superheroes restaurant will open in London’s Soho this spring. The restaurant will replace the Titanic restaurant, which was fronted by chef Marco Pierre White. Park Row is to occupy 18,000 sq ft basement venue at The Crown Estate’s Grade II…
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