12/08/2025 09:26:00
Almost two thirds of the public believe the Government must do more to help pubs and bars. The Morning Advertiser reported that some 61% of people surveyed by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), said they have lost faith in the Government's commitment to protect pubs. CAMRA said: "Just 17% believe it is doing enough, a damning verdict on years of underinvestment, inconsistent support and a lack of long-terms safeguarding for this cherished institution."
The Bank of England has cut base rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4 per cent in a knife-edge decision that saw the Monetary Policy Committee forced into a second vote for the first time in its history, advises This is Money. It marked the fifth decrease in borrowing costs since the base rate peaked at 5.25 per cent in August last year. The decision marked the first ever time the Monetary Policy Committee has been forced into a second vote, demonstrating the uncertainty over the UK's economic outlook. The Bank of England's MPC voted by a majority of 5 to 4 to reduce base rate, with four members of the committee preferring to hold a 4.25 per cent. In the first round, MPC Alan Taylor voted for an even bigger cut to 3.75 per cent.
Soho House has posted a strong set of Q2 financial results with revenues up across the board, writes The Caterer. The private members club reported an 8.9% increase in total revenue to $329.9m (£245.8m) for the second quarter ended 29 June 2025. Adjusted EBITDA stood at $46.1m (£34.3m), an increase from $31.5m (£23.5m) in second quarter 2024. In-house revenues increased 4.1% year-on-year to $132.5m (£98.7m) - demonstrating increased confidence from its members, who at the beginning of 2024 were reportedly cautiously spending when visiting sites.
Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort outside Glasgow-which recently unveiled a £25m renovation-has joined JA Resorts & Hotels, a collection of resorts and lifestyle hotels in Dubai and the Maldives. The addition marks a significant milestone for JA Resorts & Hotels and its parent company, Dutco Group, representing the brand's entry into the UK market. Mar Hall was acquired by Dutco Group in 2024 and underwent a refurbishment in excess of £25m before officially re-opening in May, advises Boutique Hotelier. It now comprises 74 restored guest rooms and suites, two restaurants, two bars and a collection of public spaces including a 22-seater private cinema, Gaming Room and Billiards Room.
Wingstop UK has opened its fifth site in Leeds, writes Hospitality and Catering News. Located at The Springs retail and leisure centre, the new 3,014 sq. ft site hosts 77 covers and brings 50 jobs to the local community. The opening marks Wingstop UK's fifth site in Leeds, following the success of its Cardigan Fields Leisure Park, White Rose Shopping Centre, Boar Lane and delivery kitchen sites. Earlier this year, Wingstop UK was crowned the fastest-growing restaurant group in the UK for the third year running by The Sunday Times 100. This recognition is a testament to the rapid growth and sustained success of Wingstop UK, which is set to complete a record year of expansion, with 20 new openings planned by the end of 2025.
Customers at Alain Roux's three Michelin-starred restaurant The Waterside Inn are 'bucking the trend' for spending when eating out, with the restaurant almost halving its losses in 2024, reports Restaurant Online. According to its latest annual report filed at Companies House for the year ended 31 December 2024, losses before tax at the restaurant fell to £97,000, down from £180,000 the previous year. Turnover at the business increase marginally, up from £9.06m to £9.1m, while gross profit remained largely the same at £6.9m. It added that the completion of its culinary school and a new library at the end of 2023 and new marketing and events as well as lower costs had helped the business.
Drinks sales in the On Premise held level year-on-year in the final week of July, according to CGA by NIQ's latest Daily Drinks Tracker, reports MCA Insight.