In this week’s news we toast the success of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and the return of the crown symbol on pint glasses. On a more serious note, we also look at the challenges facing the supply chain and its impact on food safety.
Royal boost for hospitality
Paddington Bear having tea with the Queen wasn’t the only hit of the Platinum Jubilee long weekend. Hospitality businesses benefitted from a welcome boost in Brits celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s 70-year reign with consumer spending in restaurants up 41.5%. Data from Barclaycard Payments, which processes nearly £1 in every £3 spent on credit and debit cards in the UK, showed that during the four day holiday (2-5 June) transaction volumes soared across several sectors. Compared to 3-6 June 2021, spend in pubs, bars and night clubs was up 74.2% although some Covid restrictions were still in place at this time.
Supply chain challenges and food safety
The past two years have brought relentless change to the food chain exacerbated by Brexit and the Ukraine conflict. When combined with soaring ingredients and energy costs and the ongoing skills crisis, food manufacturers and hospitality operators are facing real challenges when it comes to operations and managing food safety. This feature by Food Manufacture magazine highlights the pressing food trends impacting the food sector as the world faces long term supply chain disruption. We also understand the mountain of challenges facing the sector. But don’t worry, our team of experts are here to help answer any questions you have around food safety management and compliance – simply call us on 020 7244 1900.
Charity calls on businesses to recycle old IT equipment
Ever wondered what you should do with your obsolete work tech? Only A Pavement Away has urged hospitality businesses to donate old IT equipment to help raise funds. The charity, which helps people at risk of homelessness, those leaving prison and veterans get jobs in hospitality, has recently partnered with DSA Connect (DSAC), an IT asset disposal company. Only A Pavement Away said that many businesses and organisations can find themselves with redundant IT equipment after downsizing, periodically refreshing their equipment or relocating or closing their offices.
Crown stamp set to return to pint glasses
As we still bask in the warm glow of the Jubilee celebrations, it seems the crown stamp could be returning to a pint glass near you soon. The crown stamps originated in the late 17th century and were a mark to show that the glass in question could contain 20 British fluid ounces. The number underneath the crown refers to the designated weights and measures inspector who checked the particular factory of origin.