Evolv Collection acquires Vinoteca: The Evolv Collection, formerly D&D London, has acquired Vinoteca, the London wine bar group, marking “a significant milestone in the company’s strategic expansion plans”. The acquisition will see Vinoteca’s Farringdon and Bloomberg Arcade venues integrated into The Evolv Collection’s portfolio, coinciding with the opening of Sartoria Launceston Place next Tuesday (4 November). The Evolv Collection will transform Vinoteca’s Farringdon location into Vinoteca di Sartoria, introducing the Sartoria brand into an accessible, small plates format. As previously reported, a new Sartoria venue will also open in Liverpool Street in January 2026, while Fiume in Battersea will be reimagined as Sartoria Battersea. The acquisition accelerates The Evolv Collection's vision for Sartoria, extending the brand originally founded by Sir Terence Conran in 1990 across London. The Sartoria family will encompass five locations: the flagship on Savile Row, Launceston Place, Battersea, Liverpool Street and Farringdon. Vinoteca City will be elevated with a new Mediterranean menu. “The acquisition of Vinoteca represents an exciting opportunity to bring together two distinguished brands with complementary DNA,” said Martin Williams, chief executive of The Evolv Collection. “Vinoteca’s expertise in wine and neighbourhood dining aligns perfectly with our vision for Sartoria’s evolution. This strategic move allows us to introduce the elegance of Milanese dining to new audiences across London, while honouring what makes Vinoteca special.” Vinoteca di Sartoria in Farringdon will showcase cucina piccolo – small plates inspired by Sartoria Launceston Place’s lunch menu and complemented by Vinoteca's wine programme. Sartoria Liverpool Street, opening in January 2026, will operate as an all-day destination, mirroring the bar and café concept at Launceston Place, while Sartoria Battersea will combine the small plates offering with artisanal pizza. “This is about creating something special – honouring Vinoteca’s legacy while writing an exciting new chapter for the Sartoria brand,” added Williams. “From intimate wine bars to our flagship restaurant, the Sartoria collection will offer Londoners multiple ways to experience the elegance of Milan.”

McDonald’s UK & Ireland vice-president of development Mike Spencer to speak at final Propel Multi-Club Conference of 2025, open for bookings: Mike Spencer, McDonald’s UK & Ireland vice-president of development, will be among the speakers at the final Propel Multi-Club Conference of 2025, which is open for bookings. Spencer will discuss the brand’s large-scale reimagining programme across its estate, with a target of 200-plus stores refreshed a year, as it looks to unlock capacity to drive future growth. He will also talk about how McDonald’s is looking to open 40 new sites a year, and its approach to the customer journey. The all-day conference takes place on Wednesday (5 November), at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel in London’s Kensington. For the full speaker schedule, click here. Operators can book up to three free places per company while Premium subscribers who are operators can book up to four free places. To book, email kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com.

 

Premium Club subscribers to receive updated Multi-Site Database and videos from Culture, Talent & Training Conference today: Premium Club subscribers are to receive the updated Multi-Site Database today (Friday, 31 October), at 12pm. The next Propel Multi-Site Database provides details of 3,474 multi-site operators and is searchable in seven main segments. The database features 1,001 (29%) operators from the casual dining sector, 798 (23%) pub and bar operators, 602 (17%) cafe bakery operators, 487 (14%) quick service restaurant operators, 283 (8%) hotel operators, 229 (7%) experiential leisure operators and 54 (2%) fine dining operators. The database is updated each month, and this edition includes 20 new companies. The database includes new companies in the experiential leisure sector include padel concept Padel Project UK, immersive entertainment concept The Lost Estate, and indoor climbing operator Freeklime. Premium Club subscribers will also receive all the videos from the Culture, Talent & Training Conference tomorrow, at 9am. They include Abi Dunn, founder at Sixty Eight People, being joined by Hayley Whitfield, people director at Pizza Pilgrims, Rachel Woodcock, people director at Hickory’s, and Josie Adams, people director at Incipio Group, to discuss how they have helped to create cultures that have led to some of the highest employee net promoter scores in the sector. Premium Club subscribers also receive access to five additional databases: the New Openings Database, the Turnover & Profits Blue Book, the UK Food and Beverage Franchisor Database, the UK Food and Beverage Franchisee Database and the Who's Who of UK Hospitality. All Premium Club subscribers will be offered a 20% discount on tickets to Propel paid-for events and discounts on specialist sector reports. Operators that are Premium Club subscribers are also able to send up to four members of staff to each of our four Multi-Club Conferences for free. Premium Club subscribers receive their daily Propel Info newsletter 11 hours earlier than standard subscribers, at 7pm the evening before. They also receive videos of presentations at eight Propel conference events two weeks after they are held. This represents around 100 videos of industry insight over the course of the year. Premium Club subscribers also receive exclusive opinion columns every Friday at 5pm, which include the thoughts of Propel group editor Mark Wingett and a host of industry leaders from across the sector. A Premium Club subscription costs an annual sum of £495 plus VAT for operators and £595 plus VAT for suppliers. Companies can now have an unlimited number of people receive access to Premium Club for a year for £995 plus VAT – whether they are an operator or supplier. Email kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com today to sign up.

Lucky Voice founder – ‘VAT row isn’t just a technical dispute, it’s a question of fairness, consistency and whether the government is serious about backing hospitality’: Lucky Voice founder Charlie Elek has said its VAT row with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) “isn’t just a technical dispute – it’s a question of fairness, consistency and whether the government is serious about backing hospitality”. Propel reported earlier this week that the social entertainment business is locked in a dispute to claw back £250,000, claiming it should have qualified for a reduced VAT rate during the covid pandemic. The dispute centres around whether its bars can be considered “cultural attractions”. Lucky Voice, which was founded in 2005 and runs five karaoke bars in London and one in Brighton, lodged an appeal with the first-tier tribunal and the hearing is due to take place in February. Elek, writing in today’s (Friday, 31 October) Friday Opinion, said: “This isn’t just about Lucky Voice in isolation. Many other operators – from independent leisure venues to multi-site hospitality groups – reasonably assumed that similar hospitality-driven activities would be eligible, as per the legislation. This isn’t just a technical dispute. It’s a question of fairness, consistency, and whether the government is serious about backing hospitality. The impact of this inconsistency is real. For Lucky Voice, it’s a six-figure sum that could be reinvested into our teams and our venues. For others, it’s much more. These are funds that we are rightfully expecting to receive – and are now withheld without clear justification. It’s not just frustrating. It’s damaging. This relief was introduced to help us recover. It’s time the government’s commitment was honoured.” Elek will share more of his thoughts in today’s Friday Opinion, which will be sent out at 11am. Lucky Voice will be among the brands presenting at the Propel Franchisor Showcase, which will put the spotlight on ten up-and-coming food and beverage franchisors. The inaugural event will be held on Tuesday, 25 November at One Moorgate Place in London and is open for bookings. For the full speaker schedule, click here. Free places for operators and investors only are available by emailing kai.kirkman@propelinfo.com.

 

Geof Collyer – ‘can you trust your parent company?’ Geof Collyer, founder of Lavender Bank Partners, asks whether franchisees “can trust their parent company” in today’s (Friday, 31 October) Propel Premium, in the wake of the demise of Pizza Hut UK’s franchise business. Collyer crunches the numbers behind Pizza Hut UK’s downturn and eventual administration and explores other major US restaurant/quick service restaurant brands operating in the UK to see how they have fared since before the pandemic. He looks at the performance since 2019 of some of the UK subsidiaries of US corporations such as McDonald’s, Starbucks Coffee Co UK, KFC UK, Papa John’s GB and Hard Rock Café UK, and regional franchisees like Five Guys JV, Pizza Hut UK and Burger King UK. Collyer said: “As a franchisor, a company will get income from royalty and franchisee fees through its revenue line. As a franchisee, it will pay these sums along with a contribution to market costs (often a similar percentage of sales as the royalty fee). It is logical for the brand owner/parent to do better than its progeny, but it also means that you – as the franchisee – will still have to invest in marketing costs when the chips are down, so to speak.” Collyer shares more of his thoughts in today’s Premium Opinion, which will be sent to Premium Club subscribers at 5pm. Also in today’s Premium Opinion, Flo Graham-Dixon, founder of sector advisory business Juniper Strategy, argues that “joining the B Corp club can see real commercial upsides, and not in the most obvious places”.

 

Job of the day: COREcruitment is working with a facilities management provider that is seeking a commercial finance manager to lead bid strategy and cost modelling for technical service tenders. A COREcruitment spokesperson said: “The role requires creating robust financial models that support operational delivery, commercial decision-making and competitive pricing across diverse portfolios. The position will design, build, and maintain complex financial models for bids, integrating lifecycle costing, risk assessment and value-for-money analysis.” The salary is up to £80,000 and the position is based in Northampton. For further details, email fabian@corecruitment.com

 

Stay Original Co set to raise funds as it sees ‘increasing number of attractive acquisition opportunities’, adds seventh site: Boutique hotel and pub group Stay Original Co is set to raise funds to support its growth across the south west. The company has appointed Dow Schofield Watts London to advise on a capital raising as the group is seeing “an increasing number of attractive acquisition opportunities”. It comes as Stay Original Co acquires its seventh site – The Eastbury Hotel in Sherborne, Dorset. The Georgian property features 26 bedrooms, landscaped gardens and a spa. The Eastbury, which had been owned by the de Savary family since 2018, will now undergo a comprehensive, multimillion-pound refurbishment ahead of a full relaunch in 2026. The renovation will include a complete redesign of all bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as a new all-day food and drink offering and an in-house bakery. Once reopened, the hotel will bring the group’s total room count to 114, with Ebitda projected to rise above £3.5m. Stay Original Co – founded by friends Rob Greacen, Pat Gill and James Brooke-Webb in 2011 – operates a growing collection of boutique hotels and inns across the region. The portfolio includes The Swan in Wedmore, The White Hart in Somerton, Timbrell’s Yard in Bradford on Avon, The Grosvenor Arms in Shaftesbury, The King’s Arms in Dorchester and At the Chapel in Bruton. The group told Propel that trading in 2025 has been “good” and up on the previous year. Greacen and Brooke-Webb said: “The de Savary family has looked after The Eastbury beautifully and we are delighted to acquire this little jewel in the centre of Sherborne. The gardens and elegant rooms are a pleasure to work with, and we look forward to relaunching the bar, restaurant and rooms next year.” Matthew Smith, partner at Knight Frank Hotel Agency, acted on behalf of the seller.

Gong Cha ‘only just scratching the surface of its potential’ as it reaches 30 global markets with Columbia launch: Gong Cha, the fast-growing bubble tea brand headquartered in the UK, has said it is “only just scratching the surface of its potential” as it makes its debut in Columbia. The company has reached 30 global markets following its launch in the South American country with new master franchisee, Té Colombia SAS, which has opened its first store in Bogota, with dozens more to come. Founded in Taiwan in 2006, Gong Cha first expanded overseas in 2009 and has grown significantly to operate nearly 2,200 stores around the globe. Gong Cha is executing an ambitious global expansion strategy to grow to 10,000 stores over the next decade. This includes expanding its presence in existing markets or entering new markets – like those across the Americas – where Gong cha does not yet have a presence. The new agreement in Colombia builds on a series of strategic milestones in the region. In 2023, Gong Cha signed master franchise agreements to open 50 stores across Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Gong Cha has also signed a master franchise agreement for Puerto Rico, where it launched its first drive-thru in August this year and plans to scale to 30 stores. Across Latin America, Gong Cha is aiming to replicate the success of its Mexican business, where it has more than 100 stores. Global chief executive Paul Reynish said: “During a period with everchanging pressures and challenges, from inflation and consumer confidence to worldwide supply chain disruption, one thing has remained constant: the global relevance of our brand, customer proposition and operating model. Today, Gong Cha is more than another successful ‘east to west’ story, but a true category leader that is only just scratching the surface of its potential.”

UK’s second-largest KFC franchisee narrows its losses and secures new bank loan: New Demipower, the second-largest KFC franchisee in the UK operating circa 120 restaurants, narrowed its losses in the year to 31 October 2024. The company saw its pre-tax loss of £5,341,056 in 2023 lessen to £2,485,471 during the period. Its turnover dropped from £229,758,119 in 2023 to £222,687,048. Of this, £147,401,068 came from in-store purchases (2023: £149,638,058) and £75,285,980 from online deliveries (2023: £80,120,061). No dividends were paid (2023: nil). Director Alim Janmohamed said: “Sales margins posted an improvement year-on-year and without any interruption in the operations for both periods. The group is keen to invest in new restaurants and the directors are continuously looking at opportunities to expand the business.” Post year end, in June 2025, the company entered into a new three-year loan facility with HSBC, replacing its existing facility.

 

French-inspired London boulangerie exploring overseas opportunities: French-inspired London boulangerie Miel Bakery is exploring overseas opportunities and is in discussions with partners across the UAE, Canada and Egypt. Chef and owner Shaheen Peerbhai, who opened Miel Bakery in March 2019, is also the co-founder of Café Ciel, which launched at The OWO near Trafalgar Square in July 2025. Classically trained in French cuisine and pâtisserie at Le Cordon Bleu Paris and London, and at Ecole Ducasse in France, she has honed her skills at establishments ranging from terroir driven bistros to three-Michelin starred restaurants. She has authored a cookbook titled Paris Picnic Club and was also food editor of BBC Good Food Magazine India. Franchise consultant Charlie Mander, chief operating officer at Presman & Colard, said: “Founded in London, Miel Bakery is a French-inspired boulangerie that has become a beloved staple in Fitzrovia. Known for its artisanal craftsmanship, elegant pastries and authentic French products, Miel Bakery has built a loyal following both locally and abroad. With an ever-growing international customer base and a vibrant social media presence that showcases its signature creations to audiences worldwide, Miel Bakery is now embarking on an exciting phase of global expansion. The business is currently in discussions with partners across the UAE, Canada, and Egypt, aiming to bring its celebrated blend of French tradition and London flair to new markets. Focused on collaborating with experienced, like-minded operators, Miel Bakery is setting the stage to become a globally recognised name in premium baked goods over the coming years.”

 

London smash burger brand set to make its international debut, in Dubai: London smash burger brand Manna is set to make its international debut, in Dubai. Manna, which has sites in Battersea Power Station and Tottenham Court Road in the capital, is set to launch in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, in November. Serving its smash burgers sides and shakes, Manna made its debut at the Arcade Food Hall in 2022. The brand was developed in collaboration with Feroz Gajia, from Clapton’s Bake Street cafe, and launched through the Arcade Create platform. Gajia said: “The launch of Manna in Dubai is a moment of pride for us. The warmth and enthusiasm we’ve received from our London guests have been humbling, and bringing Manna to Alserkal Avenue feels like an organic extension of our journey. Alserkal Avenue is the perfect location for Manna’s first international expansion, with its vibrant mix of arts, culture, and design. It’s a space that aligns seamlessly with our vision, bringing together creativity and community – values that are at the heart of what we do. Guests in London can continue to enjoy Manna at Arcade Tottenham Court Road and Arcade Battersea Power Station, but for Dubai, this is just the beginning.”

 

Greek concept Mikos Gyros reaches 100 delivery kitchen milestone and reports record sales week: Greek concept Mikos Gyros has hit a milestone of 100 delivery kitchens in the UK. The company, which has two physical locations in London, launched with Sessions, the growth platform for original food brands, in June. It immediately launched into 11 delivery-only locations and said a further 75 would follow over the coming months. Giving an update, founder Hugo Ushida said: “We’ve hit a 100 delivery sites in the UK! Also, record sales last week. Thanks to everyone at Sessions for supporting the growth of our signature Gyros Pitas from Mikos.”

 

Costa franchisee Goldex Investments reports drop in turnover and profit: Costa franchisee Goldex Investments reported a drop in turnover and profit in the year to 31 October 2024. The company, which operates circa 50 Costa stores across Kent and Sussex and ten in Morocco, as well as several gyms, saw its turnover fall from £13,303,150 in 2023 to £12,972,324. Of this, £12,605,931 came from coffee shop sales (2023: £13,126,169) and £310,712 from fitness sales (2023: £152,802). Its pre-tax loss widened from £65,781 in 2023 to £201,888. Dividends of £175,000 were paid, the same as in 2023. Owner Diljit Brar said: “In the past year, Goldex Investments and its subsidiary companies have maintained their share of the market with their existing stores. Turnover for the year was £12,972,324, giving a gross profit for the year of £3,920,740, a slight increase from last year of £3,847,787. This increase in performance is due to a variety of factors: Firstly, there was stability in the cost-of-living crisis and strong macroeconomic performance across the country which boosted the disposable income of individuals and families. Furthermore, on an internal level the company was able to focus on carrying out an audit of high and low selling products and align their offerings to products displaying consistently strong demand amongst the customer base. Furthermore, the company was also able to significantly reduce its total expenditures due to stability in the energy market as the volatility in the market due to geopolitical shocks subsided and the company was able to lock in better rates compared to previous periods. The director of the group proposes to continue their expansion of acquiring shops under the Costa Franchise chain throughout the south east of England. The group is also the UK master franchisor for Kaspa’s and Doner & Gyros. Post year end, in March 2025, Goldex partnered with Azha Rehman, founder and chief executive of Kaspa’s, and Steve Falle, managing director of Costa franchisee WY&SF, to form a new business, Jinziex, which signed an agreement to open at least 225 new Gong Cha stores in the UK. In October 2025, Goldex celebrated its 20th birthday. Brar said: “Looking back over the years since establishing Goldex, it’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years already; 20 years of amazing times, and results. From starting as a Costa franchise business, we have grown into our own brand of Goldex Fitness Gyms, Kaspa’s Desserts, master rights of Doner Gyros, Gong Cha, HQ by Regus workspace, commercial and residential properties, holidays lettings and, most recently, Central London and SE for TownHouse Nail Saloons.”

Chopstix to open in Castleford: Fast-growing, quick service restaurant brand Chopstix Group is to open in Castleford. Its latest opening is located at the Yorkshire town’s Junction 32 outlet shopping destination. Opening its doors this month, it follows launches for the brand in Sheffield’s Meadowhall Shopping Centre and in McArthurGlen Designer Outlet in York last month, with “high footfall locations such as destination shopping centres a continued focus for growth”. With over 150 locations across the UK, Chopstix has seen rapid growth following investment from European quick service restaurant operator QSRP last October. Menashe Sadik, Chopstix co-founder, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our new store at Junction 32 in Castleford continuing our expansion across the UK into these high footfall areas that we know work so well for the brand. It’s great to be able to welcome a fantastic new team to the Chopstix family, and bring our big, bold Chinese flavours to a brand-new area.”

 

Carlsberg hails impact of Britvic acquisition as it sees continued momentum in premium beer and soft drinks across western Europe: Carlsberg has hailed the impact of its acquisition of Britvic as it said it was seeing continued momentum in premium beer and soft drinks across western Europe. In the UK, the company reported double-digit growth for the Carlsberg brand, strong gains across its premium portfolio and market share improvements in both the on and off-trade. Reported volumes rose 16.2% in the three months to September 2025, reflecting the consolidation of Britvic’s results for the first time. Organic volumes, however, declined 3%, impacted by weaker demand in Asia and central and eastern Europe. Reported revenue increased 17.8% to DKK 24.1bn (£2.85bn), again lifted by the Britvic deal, while organic revenue slipped 1.4%. Excluding San Miguel, organic revenue in western Europe grew 2.1%, offsetting softer results in Asia (down 0.6%) and central and eastern Europe and India (down 2.8%). Revenue per hectolitre rose 2%, with all three regions contributing positively. Carlsberg completed the acquisition of Britvic in January 2025, merging the UK soft drinks group with its Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company to form Carlsberg Britvic. The company said integration of the Britvic business “continues to progress very well”, and it has now raised its expected cost synergies to £110m, up from £100m previously. Carlsberg chief executive Jacob Aarup-Andersen said the results reflected the benefits of the Britvic acquisition and a strong showing from the brewer’s premium brands, including Carlsberg, Tuborg and 1664 Blanc. Aarup-Andersen added the group had been “taking decisive actions to adjust our cost base” in response to softer market conditions, to protect earnings and maintain investment in commercial and digital initiatives. “We continue to have strong confidence in the advantages of combining beer and soft drinks and the long-term value creation opportunities offered by the Britvic acquisition,” he said.

 

Buzzworks hires new property director as it expands into accommodation: Scottish independent restaurant and bar operator Buzzworks Holdings has hired Maurissa Fergusson as its new property director as it expands into accommodation. With over 25 years of experience in the property and real estate industry, Ferguson’s career spans the commercial, retail and hospitality sectors. A qualified architect, she has led major projects across the UK, including at Scotmid, where she oversaw property, development and facilities. “Branching into rooms and accommodation is a natural next step for Buzzworks, and I’m proud to be leading this new chapter of the company’s growth,” Ferguson said. “Buzzworks have an industry leading reputation for exceptional hospitality, and my focus is on delivering a steady pipeline of well-chosen spaces that perform well and reflect that same level of care and quality. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a new guest experience, whilst also supporting and enhancing the long-term development of our people and portfolio.” Ferguson will lead Buzzworks' projects and facilities team, overseeing all stages of property development, renovation, and maintenance. Kenny Blair, managing director of Buzzworks, added: “Maurissa brings an extensive wealth of property knowledge and experience that will prove invaluable to our team. Her expertise in balancing operational efficiency with delivering an exceptional guest experience will be instrumental as the business expands its offerings. This is a really exciting chapter for Buzzworks and we are thrilled to have Maurissa on board.” Since announcing its plans to expand into the accommodation sector in August, Buzzworks has hired former Hostmore, Hotel du Vin and Malmaison chief executive Robert Cook as its new non-executive chairman, and JP McKeown, formerly of Stonegate Group, as its new operations director.

Burger & Lobster founders to convert site in London’s Chelsea to grill concept: George Bukhov-Weinstein and Ilya Demichev, the co-founders of surf and turf restaurant group Burger & Lobster and Mediterranean restaurant Wild Tavern, are to convert their Fantomas site in London’s Chelsea to a grill concept. Fantomas launched in October last year  at 300 King’s Road in partnership with chef Chris Denney but shut in August due to being “the wrong concept in the wrong place”. Now the site is reopening as Chelsea Grill, reports Hot Dinners. The restaurant – which opens on Tuesday, 18 November – will be “built around three key elements – fire, smoke and top-quality ingredients”. Heading up the restaurant is Anton Vasilyev, who was most recently executive chef of Basque restaurant Sugaar in Paris. The drinks list will include wine and cocktails. Bukhov-Weinstein and Demichev opened the first Wild Tavern, in Chelsea’s Elystan Street, in December 2019. They followed that up with the opening of Wild in Notting Hill, at 202 Westbourne Grove, last year. The duo are also set to open a new concept in the City of London. The pair have secured the ex-Brown’s site in Old Jewry.

 

Vagabond Wines to open UK’s largest urban winery in December for largest investment made in business by Majestic Group: Vagabond Wines is to open the UK’s largest urban winery in London’s Canary Wharf in December in what is the largest investment made in the business by Majestic Group since it was acquired out of administration last year. Majestic said the project will form the foundation of Vagabond’s future growth, acting as both a production hub and a flagship for the next phase of expansion across the UK. The winery follows new bars at St Paul’s and Broadgate in the capital. Vagabond plans further openings in 2026 as it targets expansion beyond London. The 6,000 square-foot space will launch on Thursday, 4 December at Canada Water, as part of British Land and AustralianSuper’s redevelopment. The venue will combine Vagabond’s wine bar experience with a fully operational 100-tonne winery led by head winemaker José Quintana. Guests will be able to see, smell and taste wine at every stage of its journey while discovering more than 100 wines by the glass from Vagabond’s tap-and-pour machines. The site will feature experimental winemaking techniques such as solera ageing and concrete-egg fermenters, alongside event and tasting spaces for up to 300 guests each day. The opening also marks the launch of Vagabond’s new online wine store, now live nationwide. Christobell Giles, managing director of Vagabond Wines, said: “This is where London meets the vineyard. We’ve brought winemaking back to the water and built a space that connects people to the stories, craft and community behind every bottle.” John Colley, chief executive of Majestic Group, said: “Canada Water marks a major step forward for both Vagabond and the wider Majestic Group and is where our investment in experience-led wine retail really comes to life. Vagabond continues to redefine how people connect with wine, and this new urban winery is a powerful example of what the brand can achieve as we grow across the UK.” Last month, Vagabond Wines told Propel that 2025 has been “positive” for the business, with like-for-like customer numbers showing double-digit growth across the estate. In June, Vagabond, which operates 12 sites in London and Birmingham, said it was aiming to double its estate over the next three years.

 

Muffin Break and Jamaica Blue operator gearing up for landmark launch after opening 99th UK site: FoodCo, which operates the Muffin Break and Jamaica Blue brands in the UK, is gearing up for landmark launch after opening its 99th UK site. It has opened its 73rd Muffin Break store, in Crawley’s County Mall Shopping Centre, which sits alongside 26 Jamaica Blue sites. Store number 100 is already on the horizon too, with fit-out due to begin shortly on a new Jamaica Blue in Sutton, south London. Michael Johnson, the company’s franchise development executive, said: “FoodCo, owner of Muffin Break and Jamaica Blue coffee brands, opened its 99th franchised store today in The County Mall Shopping Centre, Crawley. Muffin Break opened in a 1,500 square-foot site beside Next and along from Primark. Muffin Break, which now has 73 cafes located across all of the home nations, has a strong pipeline of new store growth and is looking for further opportunities in shopping centres, high streets and transport hubs. With Jamaica Blue Sutton High Streetbeginning fit out in the coming fortnight, Foodco will achieve 100 stores before the end of 2025! A great achievement after a very busy year.”

 

PizzaExpress secures new site in Hull: PizzaExpress has secured a new site in Hull. The company is opening on the ground floor of Burton House after agreeing a deal with landlord Wykeland Group. The fit-out of the restaurant is underway, with PizzaExpress hoping to open in the former Burton menswear building before Christmas. PizzaExpress has leased 2,400 square feet of ground floor space at Burton House, as well as 1,600 square feet of basement area. Burton House had stood empty since 2020, when Burton owner Arcadia Group went into administration. Wykeland purchased the property in 2021 and has spent £2.4m restoring the property, which offers 12,700 square foot of space over five floors. Jonathan Stubbs, development director of Wykeland, said: “The opening of PizzaExpress will return the building to active use, with a much-loved restaurant brand in place.” The restaurant will be PizzaExpress’ ninth new restaurant opening in what is its milestone 60th year.

YouMeSushi to open in London’s Victoria: YouMeSushi, the restaurant and takeaway business, is to open a site in London’s Victoria. The venue will launch on Thursday, 14 November in Strutton Ground, offering seating for around 20 guests. YouMeSushi’s menu includes fresh salmon and tuna sashimi, poké bowls, sushi and hot dishes like teriyaki chicken rice and chicken gyoza ramen. Founded in Marylebone in 2008, YouMeSushi has grown to 25 branches across the UK – mainly in Greater London, with regional outposts in Brighton, Cheltenham, Reading, Luton and Worthing. The franchise brand has previously said it aims to double its estate over the next three years.

 

Loungers gets green light for Burton site: Café bar operator Loungers, which is backed by Fortress Investment Group, has got the go ahead for a new site in Burton on Trent. The Nick Collins-led business has been announced as the first commercial operator at the town’s new Brewery Quarter. The Lounge, Cosy Club and Brightside operator will open a Lounge café-bar within the historic Bass House. East Staffordshire Borough Council is redeveloping Bass House, Town House, the Water Tower, Trent House and Carling House. William Bass began brewing at the site off High Street in 1777, with Bass House completed in 1878, and it is proposed the building be repurposed as a brewery heritage centre and exhibition space. The Water Tower will be adapted to include a viewing platform, overlooking the town and surrounding landscape, while a hotel is planned for Carling House, a 1980s two-storey office building which previously acted as the Molson Coors headquarters. Loungers chairman Alex Reilley said: “We are thrilled to be taking part in this exciting redevelopment of an historic, heritage building that will revitalise Burton’s town centre. We are excited to be joining the other tenants in creating somewhere really special for the town.”

 

Urban Greens opens sixth London site: London fresh salad concept Urban Greens has opened its sixth London site. It has opened wirthin a new development at 23 Norton Folgate, in Shoreditch, offering 22 indoor seats, with outdoor seating to follow. It will serve the full Urban Greens menu – including signature salads such as Beef Saigon, Salmon Avocado and Urban Caesar. Urban Greens was founded in 2019 by three university friends – Rushil Ramjee, Houman Ashrafzadeh, and Yannis Drivas – who developed a menu focused on fresh, chef-driven, health-focused food. The team said: “Shoreditch felt like the natural next step – it’s a hub for creativity, food and energy – all things that align with what we’re about. We’ve always loved this part of the city. We’re grateful to our customers for helping us grow one location at a time. Opening our sixth store in such a dynamic area is something we’re proud of.” Urban Greens also has sites in London Wall, High Street Kensington, St James’s Park, Canary Wharf and St Paul’s, and earlier this year launched a “room service salad experience” at The Hoxton in Shoreditch. With the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Hoxton Grill, undergoing a refresh, Urban Greens stepped in to offer guests access to its signature salads and trays without leaving their rooms.

 

London gastropub operator Noble Inns to open French bistro concept: London gastropub operator Noble Inns is to open a French bistro concept in Islington on Monday (3 November). Bistro Sablé is the latest addition to the group’s pubs and restaurants, which includes the Pig & Butcher in Islington and The Princess of Shoreditch. Located at 63-69 Canonbury Road, and formerly known as The Smokehouse, Bistro Sablé will have 65 seats spread across two areas and a garden at the front. An “affordable and succinct” menu will offer French classics as well as a Sunday roast with all the trimmings. A wine list curated by former Mere sommelier, Alex Corvez, will feature alongside house cocktails and craft beer.

 

Chef Daniel Rogan to reopen fine-dining restaurant in new Southampton site: Chef Daniel Rogan is to reopen his fine-dining restaurant AO in a new site in Southampton. The launch, on Friday, 21 November, will mark the next chapter for the restaurant, which opened in the city in 2022 but shut a year later. Rogan, who is the son of multi Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, will open the venue in Oxford Street, with a dining room that will be able to seat 26 guests. The tasting menu will be available in both a seven and ten course format, which celebrates the seasons. Dishes will include dry-aged loin of beef with coal oil, black garlic and tarragon, and roast English duck with cauliflower, beetroot and cabbage. Wine pairings will accompany the tasting menu, including locally produced English sparkling wine. Rogan said: “AO has always been a very personal project for me. It carries the names of my children and represents a deep connection to where I’m from. This move allows us to grow into a space that reflects who we are today, still small and focused, with even more intent behind the details.” Rogan honed his craft, working alongside his father at restaurants such as the three-Michelin-starred L’Enclume and one Michelin-starred Rogan & Co, as well as at Marcus Wareing at the Berkeley and three Michelin-starred Restaurant Gordon Ramsay.

 

Company of Cooks partners with Diageo to operate F&B offer at Guinness Open Gate Brewery London: Company of Cooks, part of independent caterer CH&Co, has been confirmed as Diageo’s official bar, restaurant and event partner for Guinness Open Gate Brewery at Old Brewers Yard, London. Diageo has announced the new micro-brewery and culture hub in Covent Garden will open on Thursday, 11 December. In an exclusive deal, Company of Cooks will bring its food, drink and service to life across the 54,000 square-foot space. This includes two restaurants, a courtyard with drink and street food options, a private dining room,and the Guinness Vaults event spaces. The restaurants, led by chef Pip Lacey, are called Gilroy’s Loft and Porter’s Table. Gilroy’s Loft will “celebrate the best of Britain’s coast” with a menu featuring line-caught fish and freshly shucked, native oysters, served in a rooftop location with skyline views across London. The Porter’s Table will have a sharing menu with locally sourced ingredients at its heart. Old Brewers Yard, a ground-level courtyard space, will feature the main bar and handmade pies by chef Calum Franklin and will host events and pop-ups. Company of Cooks managing director Rob Fredrickson said: “Guinness Open Gate Brewery London is a fantastic cultural addition to the capital, and our values of craft, creativity and community complement its vision perfectly.” Jason Thorndycraft, managing director of Guinness Open Gate Brewery London, said: “Company of Cooks shares our belief in the power and goodness of communion, which will anchor everything we do at Guinness Open Gate Brewery London. The welcoming restaurants and bars, and vibrant event space, will all have Guinness DNA running throughout.”

 

Ennismore to launch The Hoxton in Madrid: Gleneagles and Hoxton hotels owner Ennismore will next year launch it’s The Hoxton brand in Madrid. The Hoxton, Madrid will be located on the Spanish capital’s Plaza de Santa Ana and will be the brand’s second destination in Spain, following The Hoxton, Poblenou, which opened in Barcelona in 2022. Ennismore’s F&B Platform will curate the hotel’s restaurant and bars, including Il Bambini Club, which has existing venues in Paris and London, and rooftop bar Cayo Coco. Featuring 192 guestrooms and suites, the hotel will also have a signature meeting and events space. Sharan Pasricha, founder and co-chief of Ennismore, said: “We’re delighted to be growing The Hoxton’s portfolio with another exciting property in Spain. Madrid has long been on our radar, and this modernist gem of a building is going to be the perfect home for The Hoxton brand in a neighbourhood teeming with incredible culture, food and history. The Hoxton’s pipeline for the coming years is strong, with Madrid one of several openings we have lined up in Europe alongside Oslo, Kraków and Hamburg, as well as Melbourne in Australia and Nashville in the US. Our bar concept, Cayo Coco, has been a standout success in Vienna, so we're particularly excited to introduce it to Madrid.”