Welcome to Rise & Shine
If you have any news about your business you’d like to see here, including trading updates and appointments, please contact our News Editor, Carolyn Moss, at news@breadandbutter.media or call her on 01305 575155. Follow us on Twitter @BreadButterNews for updates.
Robin Alway
Group Editor
INDUSTRY NEWS
Plymouth’s River Cottage Canteen closes down suddenly
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage Canteen and Deli in Plymouth’s Royal William Yard has closed down unexpectedly, after six years of trading.
The site was the third of the River Cottage restaurant chain when it opened in 2011, following the launch of the original Canteen and Deli in Axminster in 2008.
A statement from River Cottage reads: “We have taken the difficult decision to close our Plymouth Canteen after six years of trading in the great city. We have struggled with the site throughout and following the arrival of Rory Marthinusen, our new MD of River Cottage Canteen, we are focused on consolidation and growth in other areas.
“We are embarking on a new stage of the business including development at HQ and other exciting collaborations. We are extremely proud of the team who worked so hard for us and are hoping to offer the opportunity of relocation to our other Canteens in Bristol, Winchester and Axminster where appropriate positions are available.
“It has been a pleasure to be part of Royal William Yard, and we want to thank the suppliers, producers and local community for supporting us.”
Matt Tebbutt highlights chef shortage
TV chef Matt Tebbutt wants to tempt more chefs to “buzzing” Bournemouth. The presenter of BBC TV’s Saturday Kitchen opened his restaurant Schpoons & Forx at the Hilton Bournemouth in 2015 and is now working with recruitment specialist TeamJobs to bring more chefs to the city.
Matt said: “Bournemouth is booming and has seen huge growth in hospitality in recent years. However, there is a national shortage of chefs…A career as a chef requires long hours, hard work and real commitment, but it’s also highly rewarding and offers great opportunities, especially in a buzzing place like Bournemouth.”
Silva Bala from TeamJobs Hospitality said: “Bournemouth’s hospitality scene is experiencing significant growth – in the last 12 months, 26 restaurants have opened in the town centre alone, with more scheduled to open over the summer and autumn.
“All these premises want chefs, and as a result, it is a candidates’ market. We could easily be placing ten more chefs into great roles each week if we had the people, but it’s actually become a case of too few chefs spoiling the broth.”
According to official figures from TeamJobs, there are now more than 250,000 chefs in the UK, a 36 per cent rise since 2011. But by 2022, the hospitality industry will need to recruit a further 11,000 chefs nationally to cope with demand.
Thurlestone Hotel unveils new restaurant after £1m refurb
The four-star Thurlestone Hotel in South Devon has opened The Trevilder – its new restaurant, following a million pound transformation of the property.
Redesigned with an Art Deco theme by London-based Fabled Studio, the new dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows and is set across two levels. Marble floors and the lighting have a 1920s feel and the nautical details reference the region’s maritime history.
The two AA Rosette restaurant will focus on locally sourced, classic British cuisine. New menus for summer will offer a “market menu” that changes every day plus an a la carte option. The wine list has been prepared by West Country wine merchants Christopher Piper Wines of Ottery St Mary.
Thurlestone Hotel has been owned and run by the Grose family for over 120 years. They also offer more informal dining at the one AA rosette The Village Inn and seasonal Rock Pool Bistro.
First brews from new Salcombe Brewery plant
Devon Amber is the first beer to come from a new brewery facility, purpose built by the new owners to triple current capacity at Salcombe Brewery.
Since the purchase of the business by a consortium led by leading city insurance specialist John Tiner and his wife Geraldine, Salcombe Brewery has “enjoyed substantial growth and now has five ales available all year round plus special brews to satisfy seasonal demand and tastes.”
Managing director, Gavin Hogg, previously of Moles Brewery and Bath Ales, said: “Since my arrival six months ago we have been at full capacity with every brew selling out from local demand alone. We are delighted to have the new brewery on stream which gives us 300% more capacity and we look forward to seeing our beers reach an even wider audience.
“Our beers use our own well for water and the recipes have gone through the most important of all taste tests – consumers! They have been very good at making sure that each and every pint we brew is absolutely superb and as good as the first!
“We now have five ales and they offer a real range of styles from the superb session bitter of Devon Amber – a 3.8% ABV classic bitter which is delightfully dry and hoppy to our 4.8% ABV Lifesaver ale which is has a dry citrus finish with a taste of liquorice.”
Taste of the West announces new sponsor
The largest independent regional food group in the UK, Taste of the West, have announced a new partnership with Old Mill Accountants and Financial Planners. They will be Title Sponsors for the 2017 Taste of the West Awards programme.
John Sheaves, CEO of Taste of the West said: “We are delighted with this new partnership with Old Mill. They are trusted and have a high pedigree throughout the agriculture, food and drink industries in the south west region. As we develop our business model further, we need partners of the calibre of Old Mill to provide advice and support to our members. This new arrangement is fantastic news for the organisation”.
Phil Mills, Senior Manager in the Food & Drink team at Old Mill commented, “I am genuinely delighted about the opportunities for Taste of the West, their members and ourselves. Working in partnership with an established and respected organisation is an exciting move for the Food and Drink team at Old Mill.”
Prima becomes Official Pasty of Cornwall Cricket
The partnership will see Prima offering its pasties at discounted rates to Cornwall’s 69 League Clubs, as well as special deals to all 5000 members on Cornwall Cricket’s supporter database. Prima, based in Redruth, Cornwall, will also make a cash contribution to Cornwall Cricket each time a pasty is sold to a club or supporter.
The deal will give the baker access to clubs and supporters of Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire Cricket, extending its reach to over 700 clubs and in excess of 50,000 supporters across all six counties.
Mark Norton, MD of Prima Bakeries, commented: “We are delighted with this link up with Cornish Cricket. The partnership gives us a great opportunity to grow our successful mail order business and to expand our wholesale operation into over 700 cricket clubs in the South West”.
Simon Menneer, CEO of Cornwall Cricket, added; “Prima is one of Cornwall’s iconic brands and I am excited to welcome Mark and his team as the Official Pasty of Cornwall Cricket. I look forward to seeing the Prima name at our cricket grounds this summer”.
Somerset tourism awards open for entries
Hospitality businesses have until 16th June to enter this year’s Somerset, Bath and Bristol Tourism Awards. (Except for Unsung Hero for Customer Service and Tourism Events and Festivals which close on 31st August.)
Changes for 2017 include a new Guided Tour category for tours on land and water and new awards for Spa and Wellbeing, Active and Sporting Experience and Artistic, Cultural and Learning Experience. There are also criteria changes for Hotels, B & Bs, Holiday Parks, Visitor Information and Customer Service. Other categories include Glamping, Self Catering, Dog-Friendly, Access and Inclusivity, Cafes, Pubs, Restaurants, Attractions, Business Tourism, Sustainable Tourism and Events and Festivals.
The Unsung Hero category is unique in that members of the public can nominate entrants. Get more details at www.somersettourismawards.org.uk.
FOOD & DRINK NEWS
Wadworth relaunches craft stout
The Devizes-based pub operator and brewer has relaunched Corvus, its craft stout brand. “Different to other stouts”, according to Wadworth, due to an unexpectedly light body, the 4.1 ABV beer won a regional silver award at the SIBA Independent Keg Beer Awards 2017.
Elaine Beckett, head of marketing and communications at Wadworth said, “It was important for us to really take into account the consumer insight we had gained and ensure we positioned this beer correctly for our customers. There’s an emerging market of younger beer drinkers looking to try craft stout. Corvus is the perfect beer for them.”
Rebel Brewery’s new red ale
Rebel Red is a 4.5% ABV red Cornish session ale that brings the Penryn, Cornwall-based company’s core range up to six beers. The new launch follows the purchase of Rebel in January by new directors Shirley Cormack-Trezona, Stephen Trezona and Colin Battle, after it went into liquidation in December 2016.
Cormack-Trezona said: “We are extremely happy with the way the business is moving forward and are gaining new customers daily, both customers of the previous company and new to Rebel.”
EQUIPMENT NEWS
Artis launch kid’s cutlery range
With casual dining welcoming junior diners to the table, tableware suppliers Artis have introduced The Cutlery Crew – a monster themed range of cutlery for children. The knife, fork and spoon each have a different monster face and measure 16cm, the right size for little hands.
The range has a list price of £2.31 each for knife, fork or spoon and they are available in packs of 12.
Go to www.artis-uk.com/downloads for the latest catalogue.
Rinse and repeat with Die-Pat
Die-Pat have launched two new products – inset jug rinsers and a container rinser – aimed at coffee houses, bars, restaurants and juice bars.
The container rinser connects directly to the faucet and cleans jugs and glasses in seconds. The jug rinsers are designed to be inset and connected to the water supply.
For further information, visit www.die-pat.co.uk//cafeteria-components
PROPERTY
Lulworth Lodge bought by hotelier Edward Wilkes
12-bedroom boutique hotel Lulworth Lodge has been sold to South West hospitality operator Edward Wilkes, in a deal brokered by Colliers International. It was on the market at £150,000 for the 10-year free-of-tie lease.
Wilkes will add the Lodge to his Petite Hotels portfolio including the nearby Limestone Hotel and the Lyme Town House in Lyme Regis.
“The Lodge was a beautiful old mill house and had changed hands several times. Our neighbours are really excited at the prospect of our re-launch,” said Mr Wilkes, who is originally from Poole.
APPOINTMENTS
Ellenborough Park appoint executive chef
The Cotswold country house hotel have announced Matt Weedon is to join them as executive chef.
He will oversee all food and beverages at the site which includes the three AA Rosette Beaufort Dining Room and the Brasserie.
Weedon has previously won Michelin stars at Glenapp Castle, Scotland and Lords of the Manor in the Cotswolds. His most recent position was at the Lamb Inn, Oxfordshire. He will replace David Kelman, who has moved to the Old Swan and Minster Mill near Oxford.
On his appointment, Matt said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Ellenborough Park at such an exciting time. It is an amazing time to be both a chef and a customer in the Cotswolds and there is a push towards more relaxed dining, but still with that high expectation of quality synonymous with the region’s people and many eateries.”
EVENTS
May
The London Wine Fair
22nd – 24th May
Olympia, London
“The London Wine Fair is the largest event of its kind in the UK drinks industry, and one of the world’s leading wine trade events. 15,000 wine professionals will journey to London to be immersed in the world of wine, to sample across the continents and take part in the many tastings and masterclasses.”
https://www.londonwinefair.com/
Caffé Culture Show 2017
23rd – 24th May
Olympia, London
“The nation’s leading gathering place for the café and coffee community, continuing to bring together all those who have a passion for pushing the industry forward.”
http://www.caffecultureshow.com/
IN4Hospitality Bristol: Networking for Hospitality Professionals
24th May, 17:00-20.00
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa, BS1 1HT
“The evening is based around the concept of providing local hoteliers with informal networking opportunities but also incorporates presentations about local market performance, dynamics and insights from an array of innovative industry suppliers. The event aims to be informative, interactive and engaging – igniting debate and thought.”
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/in4hospitality-event-in-bristol-tickets-34360668685
IN4Hospitality Bath: Networking for Hospitality Professionals
25th May, 07:30-10:00
Abbey Hotel, Bath. BA1 1LF
“The event is based around the concept of providing local hoteliers with informal networking opportunities but also incorporates presentations about local market performance, dynamics and insights from an array of innovative industry suppliers. The event aims to be informative, interactive and engaging – igniting debate and thought.”
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/in4hospitality-event-in-bath-tickets-34360832174
River Cottage Spring Food Fair
27th – 29th May
River Cottage HQ
“The Fair is a real family occasion packed full of activities and family fun – from chef demos, artisan food stalls, kids’ workshops, talks and live music, to garden and foraging tours from River Cottage foraging guru John Wright.”
https://www.rivercottage.net/dining-and-events/spring-food-fair
Dartington Food Fair
28th – 29th May
Dartington, Totnes, Devon
“Working alongside Food and Drink Devon, the Food Fair celebrates the very best of Devon’s thriving food and drink community, with emphasis on local, sustainable produce. Two fantastic days filled with foodie fun for all the family. All proceeds generated by the event go towards supporting The Dartington Hall Trust (a registered charity).”
https://www.dartington.org/visit/the-shops-at-dartington/dartington-food-fair/
June
Flavour Fest
2nd – 4th June
City Centre Piazza, Plymouth
“The South West’s largest food and drink festival will see the Piazza transformed, with stalls brimming with local delicacies, live music and a marquee bar. With more than 100 traders showcasing the best regional produce – as well as cookery demonstrations from talented local and celebrity chefs – organisers are hoping to yet again attract more than 100,000 food lovers.”
http://www.visitplymouth.co.uk/whats-on/flavour-fest-p1988533
Ottery St Mary Food & Families Festival
3rd June, 2017
Ottery St Mary town centre, Devon
“The town comes alive with a special food market featuring local producers, family fun and cookery demonstrations in the festival marquee. Demos this year include new South West Junior Chef of the Year, Ethan Clarke, Jim Fisher, Exeter Cookery School, Jamie Glover from Deer Park Country Hotel and Daniel Gavriilidis, Head Chef at THE PIG at Combe. The festival bar is supplied by the Volunteer Inn and features real ale from Otter Brewery.”
http://otteryfood.org/
Commercial Kitchen
6th – 7th June
NEC, Birmingham
“Commercial Kitchen is the definitive event for equipment buyers, specifiers and decision makers from across all sectors of the foodservice industry who are looking for the best equipment, services and accessories for their kitchen.”
http://www.commercialkitchenshow.co.uk/
Royal Cornwall Show
8th – 10th June
Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge
“The county’s biggest annual event and is brim-full of exhibits and activities which offer so much in the way of entertainment, competition, information, shopping and all that’s best in food and farming.”
http://royalcornwallshow.org/
Ginchester Fete
10th June
The Great Hall, The Castle Winchester
“Celebrate all that is great about the region’s food and drink scene – naturally with a focus on all things gin! A host of exciting, local gins from across the region will also be at the event including Bombay Sapphire, Conker, Pothecary Gin, Gorilla Spirits, Hiltingbury Still and Isle of Wight Distillery. Visitors will be able to sample new favourites, meet some of the geniuses behind the drinks themselves and perhaps buy a bottle or two to take home with them.”
https://ginfete17.eventbrite.com/?aff=riseandshine
Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival
9th – 11th June, 2017
Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham
“See your favourite celebrity chefs live on stage, joined by local chefs from leading hotels and restaurants showcasing local and regional food with inspiring demonstrations. Enjoy International wine tastings, food talks and entertainment for the whole family.”
http://garden-events.com/
Bournemouth Food & Drink Festival 2017
16th – 25th June
The Square, Bournemouth
“The Bournemouth Food & Drink Festival is 10 whole days of delight for foodies. Enjoy good food, amazing cooking skills and fabulous entertainment!” Includes: Street Food Festival, Farmers & Producers Market and Demo Kitchens.
http://bournemouth.co.uk/event/bournemouth-food-drink-festival-2017/
International Gelato Festival London
16th – 18th June, 2017
Old Spitalfields Market, London
“Sample delicious gelato and sorbet, witness top chefs and gelato masters compete, view live demos, enjoy entertainment for all the family and have the chance understand more about this much loved, authentic Italian dessert.”
http://www.gelatofestival.it/en/festival?language=en
Bournemouth Vegan Fair
17th – 18th June
Bournemouth International Centre
“A weekend of indulgence, inspiration and information – with over 90 diverse stalls full of tempting treats, a wide range of talks, and plenty of delicious food.”
http://www.dorsetveganevents.co.uk/bournemouthveganfair.html
Bournemouth Business Expo 2017
22nd June, 10am-4pm
Bournemouth International Centre
“Bournemouth’s largest business show for all businesses who are looking to grow and prosper. Keynote speakers, seminars, speed networking and over 70 exhibitors.”
http://www.b2bexpos.co.uk/bournemouth.html
July
Hampshire Food Festival 2017
1st – 31st July, 2017
Various locations in Hampshire
“The Hampshire Food Festival is an opportunity to show people what is grown and made in the county and offer unique experiences. From walking with buffalo to distillery tours or watching demos from top local chefs, the festival offers something for all tastes.”
http://www.hampshirefare.co.uk/food-festival/
Imbibe Live 2017
3rd – 4th July
Olympia, London
“Join 12,000 drinks professionals at the innovative and interactive annual exhibition for anyone who sources, buys or serves drinks in the licensed on-trade. Be part of Europe’s largest on-trade drinks exhibition: listen to ground-breaking seminars, experience rare and unique tastings, source new products and discover new trends defining the future of the industry.”
http://live.imbibe.com/