News
How do hospitality workers feel about returning to business?
More than two thirds of hospitality workers in the UK are concerned for their own safety as venues reopen in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to one survey, but another study shows things are working well.
Crown Estate to offer turnover-based rent relief
The Crown Estate, the income from which supports the British royal family, has offered to assist restaurants in London’s West End with turnover-based rent payments.
St. John to start charging no-show fees
Nose-to-tail restaurant St. John in London’s Clerkenwell will start charging a £20 per diner no-show fee for guests that fail to turn up when it reopens on 29 July.
Bingo club night founder launches app to streamline contactless ordering in bars
The co-founder of UK events group Bongo’s Bingo has spent his lockdown developing an app to streamline contactless ordering for bars and restaurants.
Amuse-bouches: The latest restaurant news bites
In restaurant news this week: the industry unites behind the ‘no more no-shows’ campaign, a poll suggests over half of hospitality outlets will take part in the UK government discount scheme, and Gizzi Erskine and Professor Green launch a pizza pop-up.
Weekly takings at pubs and restaurants down 40%
As pubs, bars and restaurants in England reopen, the latest data suggests that like-for-like sales are down 39.8% on the same period last year, but there is some positive news.
Soho House launches rosé with Damien Hirst design
Hoping to capitalise on the growing global thirst for rosé, the Soho House group has launched a Provence pink with a butterfly motif designed by Damien Hirst.
Pub landlord installs electric fence around his bar
The landlord of the Star Inn in the Cornish town of St Just has installed an unusual deterrent to enforce social distancing at his pub.
Hong Kong to suspend dinner dine-in service for a week
As confirmed Covid cases rise, the Hong Kong government has announced new social distancing measures, including a ban on dine-in service at restaurants between 6pm and 5am.
Former Diageo manager launches talent agency for bartenders
A former Diageo employee has launched a talent agency for bartenders to “eliminate confusion” over rates of pay for masterclasses and activations.