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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May- 2025 -2 MayRestaurants
McDonald’s US sales see biggest drop since 2020 in Q1
McDonald’s has seen its international comparable sales dip 1% in the first quarter ended 31 March 2025, with US sales falling by 3.6% over the period. That is the steepest decline in like-for-like sales in the US since the three months to the end of June 2020 during the pandemic,…
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2 MayPeople
Rhubarb Hospitality appoints new executive chef of events
Rhubarb Hospitality Collection (RHC) has announced the appointment of Kieran Reilly as its new executive chef of events. Reilly brings a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality and event catering, having most recently served as culinary director at Rocket Food. Prior to that role, he was executive chef at Lush…
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1 MayCatering Companies
Chartwells partners with The University of Kent
Campus caterer Chartwell Universities has announced a new partnership with The University of Kent, and will begin delivering catering services across the Canterbury campus from 1 June 2025. Following a competitive tender process, the new collaboration will see modernised dining facilities and expanded food options for students, staff, and visitors…
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Apr- 2025 -30 AprilPeople
Roadchef appoints Tim Gittins as new CEO
Roadchef Limited has announced the appointment of Tim Gittins as its new CEO. Gittins brings over 15 years of board level experience in the motorway services sector. Prior to Roadchef, he served as chief revenue officer at Bink, a UK-based loyalty app. He has also held other senior positions including…
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29 AprilCatering Companies
Accent Catering appoints new regional director
Staines-based Accent Catering Services Limited has appointed Rachel Wilson to its new regional directorship post to support its growing business in the Midlands. Wilson joined the independent catering company in February. She is now responsible for Accent’s strong portfolio of independent and state schools, as well as B&I contracts throughout…
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11 AprilPubs and Bars
NWTC’s new strategy brings 9% like-for-like sales uplift
Bar and restaurant operator, New World Trading Company (NWTC), has seen a 9% improvement in like-for-like sales across the last four quarters, following the appointment of a new leadership team and a renewed focus on The Botanist brand. Amber Wood, managing director of NWTC, said: “We’ve spent the last year…
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10 AprilCatering Companies
Company of Cooks extends RCP partnership in new £10m deal
Company of Cooks has extended its partnerships with the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and its London event venue, RCP London Events, for a further three years, in a deal worth £10m. The dedicated Company of Cooks team will continue to exclusively manage and deliver the full suite of catering…
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9 AprilRestaurants
Yard Sale Pizza secures growth investment from Piper
Yard Sale Pizza has secured an investment from private equity firm Piper to fund growth across the capital and into new UK cities. Piper will also support investment in technology to enhance Yard Sale’s customer experience and its innovation in collaborations and partnerships. Founded in 2013 by Johnnie Tate and…
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7 AprilFeatures
Harder to hire, even tougher to keep: hospitality’s retention crunch
The hospitality sector stands at a crossroads, with financial pressures mounting and workforce satisfaction waning. A new survey from Hospitality Jobs UK and KAM Insights, in partnership with the Access Group, paints a stark picture: nearly half (46%) of hospitality employees now earn under £30k, up from 37% in 2024…
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2 AprilPubs and Bars
RedCat turnover rises 8% to £129.8m in successful transitional year
RedCat Hospitality, the operator behind Coaching Inn Group and RedCat Independent Pubs, has reported a turnover rise of 8% to £129.8m in the year ended 31 March 2024, which was described as a transitional year for the company. In 2024, RedCat saw the arrival of a fresh leadership team as…
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