Born and bred in London, it’s easy for me to get transfixed by the bright lights of this city; it’s charming, it’s unique, and has cultivated a rich hospitality offer, one of the best in the world. Nonetheless, it’s important to broaden horizons, and not assume that for all its majesty, London’s dining scene cannot learn lessons from the rest of the world. Looking to learn more, I recently took a trip to Dubai.
Read MoreThere is much talk in the media right now surrounding cryptocurrency, some of it more negative than positive. I’ve written articles on how cryptocurrency will be a force for needed change in the hospitality industry, and how it has the potential to influence numerous markets, no matter how big or small.
Read MoreThere is something beneficial about uncertainty, it can have the effect of focusing the mind. This is increasingly evident in the ongoing discussions between landlords and operators in the hospitality sector, as they seek an agreement on rent arrear payments accrued because of the pandemic.
Read MoreFor the last 18 months, the key word in hospitality and leisure has been “survival”. But as we start to get back to some degree of normality, the sentiment has shifted to “opportunity”. We are seeing more and more activity in the sector, with operators now ready to take advantage of the possibilities the pandemic has created.
Read MoreDrive thru’ restaurants are not new. McDonalds pioneered the trend in the UK in 1986, and was soon joined by Burger King, Pizza Hut and KFC, all of whom have had a long-term presence. More recently, the likes of Starbucks and Costa have entered the fray, providing the public with ever more choice and convenience.
Read MoreThere is an underbelly of inequality in the hospitality sector that is causing incredibly turbulent times. Almost every proclamation from the government swings operators and even entire sectors from the haves to the have nots.
Read MoreHow great was it to see the shutters came up on those pubs and restaurants when the government signalled that outdoor eating and drinking was possible again. Early winners as a result of re-opening were JD Wetherspoon, Primark and the local barbers, of course.
Read MoreWe’ve done it!
Hospitality has smashed through two major milestones. First, the opening of terraces to much excitement. And now, the full big opening.
Read MoreSince the first lockdown just over 12 months ago, we have seen a major shift in eating habits. The fast forward towards tech-based deliveries, for example, was welcomed and now firmly a part of our lifestyles, despite Deliveroo’s IPO being a disaster. Speaking from personal experience, I welcomed with open arms a well-earned break from home cooking and washing up.
Read MoreAs firms up and down the country are starting to count the days until they are finally able to reopen, businesses are also starting to count the true cost of the pandemic as they stare at a mountain of debt. While there is hope and elation, there is also a very bitter taste in the mouth as the unfairness of it all becomes increasingly apparent.
Read MoreThe light at the end of the tunnel is finally getting brighter for some in the hospitality sector. A roadmap is now in place, and while there may be some traffic delays, it is at least looking like the worst of the pandemic is in the rear-view mirror.
Read MoreOnce again, we are standing on a precipice. This time, however, the drop is even greater. While we wait to see what ‘data not dates’ really means, the re-opening roadmap is just one part of what the industry needs. Cash, clarity and confidence are what everyone is calling for, not soundbites, kite flying and misinformation.
Read MoreDespair and anger. Those words summarise what the majority of the hospitality sector is feeling right now. And it is understandable.
Read MoreThe reopening of the F&B sector was epitomised by scenes of overcrowded pub and bars. Not unsurprisingly, however, the picture was a little different for restaurants. Far fewer reported a bumper re-opening, with customers having mixed experiences due mainly to the need to be compliant with Covid-19 related regulations.
Read MoreTed Schama, Managing Partner at Shelley Sandzer, explores the innovative way the hospitality sector is responding to the coronavirus.
Read MoreThis article first appeared on Property Week online on September 5 2019
Opinion piece by Duncan Lillie, Shelley Sandzer.
Read MoreThis article first appeared on MCA online on August 28 2019
Opinion piece by Leo Feldman, Partner at Shelley Sandzer.
Read MoreThis article first appeared on MCA online on June 10 2019
Opinion piece by Lauren Wellman, Shelley Sandzer.
Read More
