September 2024

MCA’s September edition features in-depth analysis and commentary on the eating and drinking out sector. In this month’s cover story, writer Simon Brooke considers the possible costs of the Labour government’s policy on wages, and we report on the rise and subsequent fall of Pret’s popular coffee subscription. The edition features insight from Lumina Intelligence on why attracting Gen Zs and retaining millennials is key to the future of pubs and bars, while Egg Soldiers explores how major QSR brands are increasingly breaking away from traditional daypart offerings and into snacking. The edition also features interviews with The Big Table Group’s CEO Alan Morgan on overcoming the popular misconception that the Frankie & Benny’s brand doesn’t exist, Wingstop CEO Chris Sherriff on how it is prioritising social interaction with customers over transactional experiences, Pizza Hut UK MD Nicolas Burquier on resetting the brand, and chef and pub owner Tom Kerridge on how government help is needed if the pub sector is to survive. Regular industry commentators Peter Martin, Dominic Walsh, David Read share their views on sector issues, including the recent protests against Gail’s, the prospect for upcoming M&A and why education is needed on the future of food.