08/07/2025 08:51:00
Pubs in England and Wales will soon be able to take advantage of new legislation which will make it easier for them to stay open longer during major national events, writes the Morning Advertiser. The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill, which has cross-party support, has just had its third reading in the House of Commons. It will amend the Licensing Act 2003 so that licensing hours can be changed by the Government at times of national significance, such as sporting events or royal weddings. Currently, the Government is unable to do this when Parliament isn't sitting. The bill will now be passed to the House of Lords to be scrutinised and voted on.
TGI Fridays has a new menu and plans to revitalise restaurants after the chain secured a rescue deal last year that included a string of closures, reports The Standard. The brand reset will involve half of its dishes updated and 70% of the grill items reworked, incorporating new flavours and more customisation. After its previous UK operator fell into administration, 51 restaurants were acquired by private equity firms Breal Capital and Calveton UK. TGI said it now operates 49 restaurants. Restructuring efforts since the takeover have resulted in a leaner and more streamlined business with a significant reduction in overhead costs.
UKHospitality has warned that the sector is at risk of being "taxed out," after losing 69,000 jobs between October 2024 and May 2025 - compared to a gain of 18,000 jobs the previous year, advises The Caterer. The group blames the NI hike, which it says disproportionately affects entry-level roles and has added £1bn to payroll costs. With an additional £2.4bn in costs expected from reduced business rates relief and a minimum wage rise. UKHospitality urges the government to act in the Budget by extending NIC exemptions to young and returning workers, cutting business rates with a 20p discount for hospitality, and reducing VAT to match European competitors.
Pub operator JD Wetherspoon is to open its new pub in Fulham called Walham Green, Tuesday, 8 July, with the creation of 90 new jobs, reports CLH News. The company has spent £3 million developing the pub in Fulham Road, close to Chelsea's Stamford Bridge stadium. This distinctive property comprises the grade II listed former entrance building and ticket hall of Fulham Broadway tube station. Designed by the railway company architect Harry W Ford, the Edwardian baroque-style entrance was built in 1910 on the site of the original station entrance, which first opened on 1 March 1880.
The Bull's Head in Earlswood is celebrating a hugely successful couple of months, following a refurbishment by owner Thwaites, reports Pub & Bar. Since reopening in April, guests who have visited to check out the revamped space have drank over 24,000 pints at the pub. The relaunch 10 weeks ago revealed a brand-new outdoor space - The Barn at The Bull's Head - which includes an outside bar, table tennis and interactive games, a fireplace and seating. Inside, the property saw a new bar installed.
The Sushi Co is on course to reach 30 UK sites by the end of the year having set out a pipeline of new openings both in London and regionally. The fast causal brand has secured a new flagship site in the centre of Cambridge, which will open in the autumn, says Restaurant Online. Further openings in Tower Bridge, Brighton and Basildon are planned for the coming months, with a further lease secured in Walthamstow. Three more locations In the South East are in legals.
The Telegraph's expert guide to England's 500 Best Pubs is out. Chosen for their charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and - of course award-winning beer.