Cornish Bakery Sets Sights on Expanding to Over 400 UK Sites
Originating from a small fishing village in Cornwall, Cornish Bakery has grown from modest beginnings into a nationwide success. Initially focused on tourist hotspots, the brand has since broadened its reach to include high streets, retail outlet centres, motorway service stations, and major event venues like Birmingham’s NEC.
Cornish Bakery operates 66 locations across the UK and is actively pursuing further expansion, with a particular focus on high street sites. 'That’s where we see the real growth opportunity,' said managing director Mat Finch.
To support its ambitious growth plans.
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Cornish Bakery operates 66 locations across the UK and is actively pursuing further expansion, with a particular focus on high street sites. 'That’s where we see the real growth opportunity,' said managing director Mat Finch.
To support its ambitious growth plans.
more »
06/Jun/2025 09:45
Manchester Coffee Festival 2025
The Manchester Coffee Festival is set to return on Friday 14th and Sunday 16th November 2025 at the Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Manchester.
The event will feature a trade show with leading players from the UK market, a programme of talks and panels from industry experts, tastings, and live competitions on the MCF stages.
The event will also feature over 50 local, national and global exhibitors.
For further information please visit https://www.
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The event will feature a trade show with leading players from the UK market, a programme of talks and panels from industry experts, tastings, and live competitions on the MCF stages.
The event will also feature over 50 local, national and global exhibitors.
For further information please visit https://www.
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05/Jun/2025 11:26
The Great British Food Festival Wimbledon Park 2025
The Great British Food Festival Wimbledon Park is a three day event being held between 23rd and 25th August 2025 at Wimbledon Park, London.
This event showcases products from a selection of artisan producers, a big serving of stunning hot food, add a dash of real ale and wine bars, foraging walks, kids cookery lessons and lots of children's activities.
There will be an incredible lineup of top chefs and bakers, with chef demonstrations taking place every day and the lineup changing daily.
For more information please visit https://greatbritishfoodfestival.
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This event showcases products from a selection of artisan producers, a big serving of stunning hot food, add a dash of real ale and wine bars, foraging walks, kids cookery lessons and lots of children's activities.
There will be an incredible lineup of top chefs and bakers, with chef demonstrations taking place every day and the lineup changing daily.
For more information please visit https://greatbritishfoodfestival.
more »
05/Jun/2025 11:18
Foodies Festival Winchester 2025
The Foodies Festival heads to River Park Recreation Ground in Winchester between 18th and 20th July 2025.
There will be a line up of top Chefs, including Masterchef Champions, cooking live in the chefs theatre, workshops and masterclasses.
The festival also includes a baking theatre, a drinks theatre, cook school and live music on the live music stage with music headliners The Wanted 2.0 and Blue.
For further information please visit https://foodiesfestival.
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There will be a line up of top Chefs, including Masterchef Champions, cooking live in the chefs theatre, workshops and masterclasses.
The festival also includes a baking theatre, a drinks theatre, cook school and live music on the live music stage with music headliners The Wanted 2.0 and Blue.
For further information please visit https://foodiesfestival.
more »
05/Jun/2025 11:08
Thomas Heier steps down as chief executive of Wagamama as part of a broader senior leadership reshuffle
Thomas Heier has exited his position as chief executive of Wagamama UK after serving in the role for four years.
Heier joined Wagamama in 2017 as people director and became chief executive in 2021, leading the company through the latter stages of the pandemic and navigating significant cost pressures.
He will be succeeded by Mark Chambers, currently chief financial officer at Wagamama’s parent company, The Restaurant Group (TRG), effective from 2 June.
Chambers previously headed TRG’s leisure and concessions division — overseeing brands such as Chiquito’s and Frankie & Benny’s — which TRG transferred to the Big Table Group in 2023 in a £7.
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Heier joined Wagamama in 2017 as people director and became chief executive in 2021, leading the company through the latter stages of the pandemic and navigating significant cost pressures.
He will be succeeded by Mark Chambers, currently chief financial officer at Wagamama’s parent company, The Restaurant Group (TRG), effective from 2 June.
Chambers previously headed TRG’s leisure and concessions division — overseeing brands such as Chiquito’s and Frankie & Benny’s — which TRG transferred to the Big Table Group in 2023 in a £7.
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05/Jun/2025 09:53
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane announces renovation of 18 luxury suites
This summer, Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane is set to unveil 18 newly renovated suites, with room rates beginning at £5,000 per night.
Created in collaboration with London-based studio Interiors with Art, the new suites will capture the seasonality of Hyde Park through sycamore wood panelling, Murano glass lighting, and bespoke furnishings that evoke a residential ambiance.
Key highlights include the Presidential London Suite on the fifth floor, featuring a formal dining room with a butler’s pantry and a private fireplace.
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Created in collaboration with London-based studio Interiors with Art, the new suites will capture the seasonality of Hyde Park through sycamore wood panelling, Murano glass lighting, and bespoke furnishings that evoke a residential ambiance.
Key highlights include the Presidential London Suite on the fifth floor, featuring a formal dining room with a butler’s pantry and a private fireplace.
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05/Jun/2025 08:24
Langham Hospitality Group names Kevin Robinson as Chief Operating Officer
Kevin Robinson has been named Chief Operating Officer of Langham Hospitality Group.
This appointment marks a homecoming for Robinson, who previously oversaw the pre-opening phase of The Langham, Chicago in 2011.
Robinson brings over 30 years of industry experience to his new role, having held leadership positions at renowned hospitality brands such as Westin and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
He also founded the boutique hotel company Aparium Hotel Group and later served as an advisor to a range of independent luxury hotels across the United States.
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This appointment marks a homecoming for Robinson, who previously oversaw the pre-opening phase of The Langham, Chicago in 2011.
Robinson brings over 30 years of industry experience to his new role, having held leadership positions at renowned hospitality brands such as Westin and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
He also founded the boutique hotel company Aparium Hotel Group and later served as an advisor to a range of independent luxury hotels across the United States.
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05/Jun/2025 08:15
Urban Pubs & Bars announces significant new £250,000 partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity
Urban Pubs & Bars, London’s largest independent pub and dining group, has announced a major new partnership with Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity).
This ambitious initiative aims to raise £250,000 over the next two years in support of GOSH Charity’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, Build it. Beat it. The campaign seeks to raise £300 million to help create a world-class new Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Over the next two years, Urban Pubs & Bars will leverage its venues and dedicated teams to host fundraising activities.
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This ambitious initiative aims to raise £250,000 over the next two years in support of GOSH Charity’s largest-ever fundraising campaign, Build it. Beat it. The campaign seeks to raise £300 million to help create a world-class new Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
Over the next two years, Urban Pubs & Bars will leverage its venues and dedicated teams to host fundraising activities.
more »
03/Jun/2025 08:19
Salad Project to launch four new restaurant locations over the next four months
The Salad Project is gearing up to open four new restaurants across London within the next four months, accelerating its expansion strategy.
Founded in 2021 by Florian de Chezelles and James Dare, the salad bar group has expanded to seven locations across London.
In a LinkedIn post, De Chezelles announced plans to open new locations over the coming months in Victoria’s Nova development, Battersea Power Station, Westbourne Grove in Notting Hill, and near the Tate Modern in Southwark.
Each of Salad Project’s seven London locations is uniquely designed for its setting.
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Founded in 2021 by Florian de Chezelles and James Dare, the salad bar group has expanded to seven locations across London.
In a LinkedIn post, De Chezelles announced plans to open new locations over the coming months in Victoria’s Nova development, Battersea Power Station, Westbourne Grove in Notting Hill, and near the Tate Modern in Southwark.
Each of Salad Project’s seven London locations is uniquely designed for its setting.
more »
03/Jun/2025 08:11
Tesco UK CEO departs after just one year amid leadership shake-up
Matthew Barnes has stepped down as chief executive of Tesco UK after just over a year in the role, as he moves on to explore new opportunities.
Barnes, who joined Tesco in March 2024, will be succeeded by current chief commercial officer Ashwin Prasad, with the transition set to take effect on 30 June.
Tesco stated that Barnes 'leaves behind a legacy of operational improvements that have streamlined and reinforced our business.'
Natasha Adams.
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Barnes, who joined Tesco in March 2024, will be succeeded by current chief commercial officer Ashwin Prasad, with the transition set to take effect on 30 June.
Tesco stated that Barnes 'leaves behind a legacy of operational improvements that have streamlined and reinforced our business.'
Natasha Adams.
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02/Jun/2025 13:51
Contract caterer Thomas Franks honoured with platinum award
The Thomas Franks Group, operating across the education, business & industry, and sports & leisure sectors, has been awarded platinum accreditation by Investors in People.
Founded in 2004 by Frank and Emma Bothwell, Thomas Franks has built a reputation for delivering ‘exceptional’ seasonal dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Only 7% of organisations achieve platinum accreditation. Successful applicants must demonstrate a company-wide commitment to people development through training.
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Founded in 2004 by Frank and Emma Bothwell, Thomas Franks has built a reputation for delivering ‘exceptional’ seasonal dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Only 7% of organisations achieve platinum accreditation. Successful applicants must demonstrate a company-wide commitment to people development through training.
more »
02/Jun/2025 08:51
Hand Picked Hotels names two new General Managers
Hand Picked Hotels has appointed the former hotel manager of Sofitel London St James and the former general manager of the Lygon Arms to oversee three of its country house properties.
Vidyadhar Patole has been appointed general manager of both Wood Hall Hotel & Spa near Wetherby and Crathorne Hall Hotel in North Yorkshire, joining from Constance Halaveli in the Maldives, where he spent the past two years.
He brings 26 years of industry experience, having previously held senior management roles at prestigious properties including Fairmont St Andrews and Sofitel London St James.
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Vidyadhar Patole has been appointed general manager of both Wood Hall Hotel & Spa near Wetherby and Crathorne Hall Hotel in North Yorkshire, joining from Constance Halaveli in the Maldives, where he spent the past two years.
He brings 26 years of industry experience, having previously held senior management roles at prestigious properties including Fairmont St Andrews and Sofitel London St James.
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02/Jun/2025 08:39
Christine Hodgson appointed new Chair of Whitbread
Christine Hodgson has been named chair of Whitbread, succeeding Adam Crozier, who served in the role for seven years.
She will officially become chair of the Premier Inn owner on 1 September, with Crozier retiring from the board on the same day.
Hodgson, also chair of Severn Trent PLC, a water company, is a FTSE 100 chair with expertise in technology, sustainability, and finance.
Her previous roles include executive chair of Capgemini UK PLC.
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She will officially become chair of the Premier Inn owner on 1 September, with Crozier retiring from the board on the same day.
Hodgson, also chair of Severn Trent PLC, a water company, is a FTSE 100 chair with expertise in technology, sustainability, and finance.
Her previous roles include executive chair of Capgemini UK PLC.
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30/May/2025 10:51
KFC announces 7,000 job openings in UK and Ireland amid fried chicken surge
KFC plans to invest £1.49 billion in the UK and Ireland, creating over 7,000 new jobs within the next five years.
The fried chicken chain stated its goal to become the “fastest growing restaurant brand for the next generation,” planning to open an additional 500 restaurants by 2035.
This will involve investing nearly £500 million in new restaurants and drive-through sites in “key locations,” including the North West of England.
A portion of this investment will go towards upgrading over 200 existing KFC restaurants-about 20% of its estate-with updated designs and new digital features.
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The fried chicken chain stated its goal to become the “fastest growing restaurant brand for the next generation,” planning to open an additional 500 restaurants by 2035.
This will involve investing nearly £500 million in new restaurants and drive-through sites in “key locations,” including the North West of England.
A portion of this investment will go towards upgrading over 200 existing KFC restaurants-about 20% of its estate-with updated designs and new digital features.
more »
30/May/2025 10:44
Marks & Spencer expands with 12 new food stores in ex-Homebase locations
M&S is accelerating its store renewal strategy with plans to open 12 new food halls across England, including its largest-ever standalone food store.
The new stores, located on former Homebase sites, will create over 550 jobs and play a key role in M&S’s store rotation programme focused on developing “bigger, better” locations.
The openings also reflect the retailer’s strong confidence in brick-and-mortar investment, despite recovering from a recent cyber attack that affected trading.
Two 18.
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The new stores, located on former Homebase sites, will create over 550 jobs and play a key role in M&S’s store rotation programme focused on developing “bigger, better” locations.
The openings also reflect the retailer’s strong confidence in brick-and-mortar investment, despite recovering from a recent cyber attack that affected trading.
Two 18.
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30/May/2025 10:34
McWin reportedly in negotiations to acquire Flat Iron steakhouse chain
McWin Capital Partners — the investor behind Gail’s, Sticks’n’Sushi, and Big Mamma Group — is reportedly in discussions to acquire the British steakhouse chain Flat Iron.
The talks come approximately seven months after the restaurant group enlisted boutique advisory firm Houlihan Lokey to explore strategic options, including securing third-party investment or pursuing a potential sale.
According to Sky News, McWin has partnered with private equity firm Trispan—majority owners of Asian restaurant chains like Rosa’s Thai.
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The talks come approximately seven months after the restaurant group enlisted boutique advisory firm Houlihan Lokey to explore strategic options, including securing third-party investment or pursuing a potential sale.
According to Sky News, McWin has partnered with private equity firm Trispan—majority owners of Asian restaurant chains like Rosa’s Thai.
more »
29/May/2025 08:29
Aramark UK collaborates with The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation
Aramark UK, a leading foodservice and hospitality provider, has formed a three-year strategic partnership with The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, the UK’s dedicated food allergy charity, in support of its mission to #MakeAllergyHistory.
Helen Milligan-Smith, President & CEO of Aramark UK, says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Natasha’s Allergy Research Foundation. At Aramark, we place the utmost importance on allergen awareness and food safety. We’re committed to supporting this critical cause to contribute to a future where everyone can enjoy meals with confidence and peace of mind.
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Helen Milligan-Smith, President & CEO of Aramark UK, says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Natasha’s Allergy Research Foundation. At Aramark, we place the utmost importance on allergen awareness and food safety. We’re committed to supporting this critical cause to contribute to a future where everyone can enjoy meals with confidence and peace of mind.
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29/May/2025 08:18
Leadership shake-up: Village Hotels appoints its first Chief Operating Officer
Village Hotel Club has strengthened its leadership team with three new appointments to drive its growth strategy.
Paul Roberts, formerly chief financial officer, will now serve as the company’s first chief operating officer (COO). Matthew Ward has been named chief financial officer (CFO), while Jon Davis takes on the role of chief technology officer (CTO).
As COO, Roberts will be responsible for shaping the company’s vision, strategic framework, systems, efficiency, and sustainability, while ensuring alignment across commercial.
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Paul Roberts, formerly chief financial officer, will now serve as the company’s first chief operating officer (COO). Matthew Ward has been named chief financial officer (CFO), while Jon Davis takes on the role of chief technology officer (CTO).
As COO, Roberts will be responsible for shaping the company’s vision, strategic framework, systems, efficiency, and sustainability, while ensuring alignment across commercial.
more »
28/May/2025 09:37
Asda Exec exits after brief six-month tenure in leadership reshuffle
Asda faces another senior management exit as Vice President for Ambient, Adrian McLeod, prepares to leave less than six months after re-joining.
McLeod, previously a leader at Accolade Wines, re-joined Asda in January amid executive chairman Allan Leighton’s management restructuring.
Leighton said McLeod “understands the language of Asda” when he joined.
McLeod’s appointment comes after he first joined the supermarket chain in 2010 and was later promoted to Asda brand director.
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McLeod, previously a leader at Accolade Wines, re-joined Asda in January amid executive chairman Allan Leighton’s management restructuring.
Leighton said McLeod “understands the language of Asda” when he joined.
McLeod’s appointment comes after he first joined the supermarket chain in 2010 and was later promoted to Asda brand director.
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28/May/2025 09:24
Deliveroo COO resigns after four years in role
Deliveroo Chief Operating Officer Eric French is set to leave the company to 'explore [his] next chapter.'
The decision follows a four-year tenure at the fast-growing food delivery company. French began as Deliveroo’s Chief Marketing Officer in 2021, stepping into the COO role the following year.
Posting on LinkedIn, French expressed his gratitude to Deliveroo and acknowledged colleagues including founder and CEO William Shu and chair Claudia Arney.
“When I joined.
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The decision follows a four-year tenure at the fast-growing food delivery company. French began as Deliveroo’s Chief Marketing Officer in 2021, stepping into the COO role the following year.
Posting on LinkedIn, French expressed his gratitude to Deliveroo and acknowledged colleagues including founder and CEO William Shu and chair Claudia Arney.
“When I joined.
more »
28/May/2025 09:15