All articles by Shwetali Sapte
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Analysis & InsightDemand for premium spirits helps boost embattled late-night sector
Consumers continue to trade up to premium spirits and cocktails despite pressures on spending and a challenged late night segment. MCA explores how the bar sector is responding, and how suppliers are helping meet demand for elevated occasions
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Analysis & InsightStonegate’s Social Pub & Kitchen taps into Ed Sheeran’s fan base
The pub group has collaborated with the artist’s hot sauce brand, Tingly Ted, to refresh its menu and increase brand visibility
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NewsPrivate equity firm True in talks to acquire stake in GDK
True’s proposed investment into the kebab chain is described as a “stellar valuation”, sources told Sky News, as GDK targets 300 UK sites by 2028
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InterviewsBoss Pizza lines up eight locations
The independent pizza delivery chain has confirmed 70 franchise partners to support its ambitions to grow to 50 sites across the UK, CEO Ajmal Mushtaq tells MCA
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NewsBig Mamma Group achieves £44m sales from five venues
The group’s London restaurants - Gloria, Circolo Popolare, Ave Mario, Jacuzzi, and Carlotta - all performed ahead of expectations, with new concept Barbarella to open this June
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NewsTim Hortons turnover surpasses £100m
The Canadian coffee and QSR chain achieved £105.4m turnover for its UK business in 2023, and plans to focus on driving profitability
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NewsCarlsberg: ‘There are no winners’ from tariffs
The Danish brewer is insulated from direct exposure to the levies but warned of the impact on already subdued consumer spending
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NewsBig Mamma Group to launch new concept in Canary Wharf
Barbarella will open within the YY Building and is inspired by the golden age of Roman cinema in the 70s
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NewsWingers announces 50-site ambition
The 14-strong chicken specialist reported a 40% rise in like-for-like net sales during the first quarter of 2025, with plans to reach 50 sites by 2027
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NewsJonathon Swaine to step down from Shepherd Neame
The pub group plans to reorganise roles and responsibilities to reflect the composition of its pub estate, in light of its decision to reduce its number of managed houses
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NewsHospitality spending sees springtime boost
Consumer spending on hospitality & leisure increased 2.8% in March, in contrast to a decline in retail spending, according to Barclaycard
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NewsExpansion drives sales for Lola’s Bakery
The 30-strong brand will open two new sites in Paddington and Clapham Junction, with another three to five outposts to open this year
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InterviewsThe Breadstall: ‘Pizza is more popular than ever’
Founder Seb Vince, along with Philip Eeles and Dorian Waite – two of the founders behind Honest - speak to MCA about launching the next disruptor brand and upending the pizza market
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InterviewsNEOS Hospitality on a new direction for the business
The party bar operator, previously known as Rekom UK, has a strong pipeline in place as it transitions to a more agile approach, CEO Russell Quelch tells MCA
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InterviewsBlack Tap: ‘Iconic locations, iconic cities’
The New York-founded craft burger and beer concept has a standout offering that will resonate in the UK market, founders Julie Mulligan and Chris Barish tell MCA
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NewsNWTC garners momentum after introducing new strategy
The 27-strong bar and restaurant operator announced a 9% improvement in like-for-like sales, following a new leadership team and renewed focus on The Botanist
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NewsTower Bridge Collective set to open later this year
The venue will bring together 13 globally inspired food partners, a commitment to sustainability, and a vibrant community hub
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NewsCooks Coffee sales surpass £35m
The Esquires operator, which trades from 89 sites across the UK and Ireland, grew sales by more than 26% in the year ended 31 March
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NewsJersey Mike’s Subs eyes UK for expansion
The 3,000-strong American sub sandwich concept, backed by Blackstone, is looking to amp up its global growth plans
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NewsIn pictures: Boxhall City debuts in London’s Metropolitan Arcade
The new concept from Boxpark opens today, with a 14,000 sq ft, 800-capacity venue offering a contemporary food hall experience