Welcome to Rise & Shine
If you have any news about your business you’d like to see here, including recruitment, 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
Editorial Director
INDUSTRY NEWS
Investment group buys landmark hotel, reveals multimillion-pound plans
The historic Burgh Island hotel has been sold to a joint venture.
The grade II listed art deco hotel was built in 1929 and is located on a private tidal island near Bigbury, Devon. A favourite of Agatha Christie and Noel Coward, the 25-room hotel has been sold for an undisclosed sum to ‘Project Archie’, a joint venture led by Office Space in Town, a private equity hospitality investor that also includes Bluehone Capital and Marechale Capital.
The new owners have said they plan a multimillion-pound refurbishment over the next 12 months. They hope to add a luxury spa and private members’ club and will also renovate the island’s only pub, The Pilchard Inn, to make it a “destination in itself”. The hotel, reachable by a sea tractor when the tide is out, will not close during the revamp.
Giles Fuchs, co-founder and chief executive of Office Space in Town, said: “The restoration of Burgh Island hotel to suit modern tastes will be our first project. Luxury tourism in Britain is booming, and we are delighted that our first investment in this sector will serve to enhance and ensure Burgh Island continues as a leading high-end travel destination.”
Exeter hoteliers Deborah Clark and Tony Orchard had owned the island and hotel for 17 years. They also own Southernhay House Hotel in Exeter.
Bristol’s Spuntino restaurant to close after only one year
The Polpo group is to close its Spuntino restaurant in the Cargo 2 development at Bristol’s Wapping Wharf.
The news comes four months after the company shut its Polpo sites on the city’s Whiteladies Road and also in Exeter.
Spuntino is the first restaurant to close at Cargo 2, the shipping container-based development on Bristol’s dockside. It served Italian-American influenced snack food including truffle egg toast and peanut butter ice cream sandwich.
Scott Macdonald, Spuntino’s managing director, said: “It is with regret that we will be closing Bristol’s Spuntino on May 6.
“As a small business, we have taken the decision to focus our resources on our existing London and Brighton restaurants and to grow Spuntino with TRG in airports across the UK.
Taste of the West partner with sustainable energy company
The leading food and drink organisation for the South West, Taste of the West, have announced a new partnership with Beco Energy Limited, to provide its members with sustainable energy advice and support.
Beco will “guide businesses with their experience and provide genuine recommendations” with the “aim of reducing energy costs, protecting against energy price rises, generate renewable energy, increase return on investment and contribute towards a greener environment”.
John Sheaves, Chief Executive of Taste of the West, said “We are delighted to have such a prestigious company supporting our membership. Sustainability has leaped up the business and consumer agenda in recent months and the food and drink sector are rising to the challenge to provide wholesome, quality food and drink from our wonderful region – but businesses now know that this must be provided in a sustainable way, whether it is a sustainable source of packaging and the elimination of single-use plastics, or using power which is from a sustainable source. Rising to this challenge, we are delighted to welcome Beco Energy Limited on board as long-term partners.”
FOOD & DRINK NEWS
Bath Ales new brewery, new look, new beers
Ahead of the opening of its new multimillion-pound brewery in May, Bath Ales have unveiled new-look bottles across its range in April.
Its permanent range of bottled beers will carry a vibrant new colour palette and new-look labels featuring their familiar leaping hare illustration will sit on taller 500ml bottles.
The first beer to launch in the new bottle livery will be Lansdown IPA in April. Named after a hill overlooking Bath, it will be a West Coast style IPA with five hop varieties giving “notes of tropical fruit, lime zest and pine forest.” Flagship beer Gem and other core range ales will follow in new-look bottles from May.
Also in May, Bath ales will open its Hare Brewery, its ‘state-of-the-art’ brewhouse in Warmley, between Bath and Bristol.
Darren James, senior brewer, Bath Ales said: “In honour of our west country roots, the new-look bottles are inspired by the unique and wonderful city that gives our brewery its name. We hope our loyal beer drinkers will enjoy discovering the bottles in their new guise as they gradually start appearing in supermarkets and pub fridges.”
Cornish Spirit Co releasing two rums for summer
The Cornish Distilling Co, based on the north coast of Cornwall, is releasing two British rums this summer – White Rum, and Spice Rum.
The rum will be distilled from scratch with the team fermenting sugar cane on-site.
Head distiller Tom Read said: “Over the past 18 months we have learnt to ferment and distil; fine-tuning the production at every step. I’ve grabbed any spare moment to further refine the production and this is especially true for the spicing. The list of spices, fruits and herbs tested is endless and I’m really happy with the final recipe. Expect notes of lemongrass, cardamon, clove, cacao nib, apricot and saffron.”
APPOINTMENTS
New chairman of Bristol Hoteliers Association announced
Imran Ali, the general manager of the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bristol, has been announced as the new head of the Bristol Hoteliers Association.
Taking over from Mark Payne, he will join Graeme Barclay, general manager of the Mercure Holland House who is now vice chairman and Greg Csikos, general manager of Hampton by Hilton, Bristol, who was appointed as the treasurer.
Ali will lobby both government and the city council on behalf of over 30 members. He hopes to tackle the debate over the new arena for Bristol – if it will be built and where – in light of Cardiff and Swansea pressing on with their plans for arenas.
Ali said: “With Greater Bristol possessing over 40 hotels and 4,000 rooms, maintaining high-level occupancy is key to each venue’s on-going success but also that of the city’s overall economy and prosperity.
“For all members, the most pressing decision is if and where the arena will be located. With Cardiff announcing it will be building a brand new arena and now Swansea doing the same, Bristol’s city leaders have to get on with it.
“It’s not just the hotels that will benefit. There will be significant overspill into restaurants, bars and all the great attractions of Bristol. The city’s retailers should also see a benefit to people from outside the city staying over and spending in the great variety of shops.
“Otherwise we’ll be left behind for the foreseeable future and the supplementary spend it is likely to bring in will be lost.
Bath’s Abbey Hotel gets new GM
Josh Watts has been announced as the new general manager of the four-AA-star Abbey hotel in Bath.
Taking over from Andrew Foulkes, who has moved to the Emily Estate and Hadspen House in Somerset, Watts joins from his position at the Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel. He has also worked at the Hotel Du Vin Bristol and Hotel Du Vin Newcastle.
Anil Khanna, Managing Director of KE Hotels said: “We are thrilled to welcome Josh on board during this exciting phase for the Abbey Hotel. He brings experience, flair and enthusiasm to the team and will be pivotal in realising our potential within the marketplace.”
PROPERTY
Isle of Wight hotel with “potential for growth” on market
The Fernbank Hotel overlooking the resort of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight is on sale for £825,000 for the freehold with agents Colliers International.
The 17-bedroom hotel has an AA-four-star Gold Bed and Breakfast Award and is “renowned for its attractive gardens”.
Ed Jefferson from Colliers International’s Hotels team said: “Nestling at the foot of Saint Martin’s Down, surrounded with old stone walls and beautiful Victorian villas, Fernbank overlooks its own sub-tropical landscaped gardens, with superb indoor pool, and private sun garden.
“Our clients bought the business in 2010 and set about a major refurbishment – however, due to personal circumstances, they have only operated the business from Easter to the end of September.
“There is a clear opportunity to extend the season, and also to create an additional bedroom from the under-used ground floor lounge.”
RECRUITMENT PROMOTION
Sales Manager – Stroud Brewery
Join the dynamic and friendly team at Stroud Brewery in Gloucestershire. We are moving into a new facility with increased production capacity and a canalside bar.
We are looking for a full-time Sales Manager to sell our organic, award-winning beer. You will be responsible for growing our beer sales in cask, keg, bottle and can to a range of markets; on-trade, off-trade, wholesale and retail.
You must have experience gained from an existing or recent role within the beer or drinks industry and able to hit the ground running utilising your existing contacts. You will have a ‘yes can do’ attitude, be flexible and available to work occasional weekends and evenings at trade events, bars and festivals. Pay dependent on experience. Apply via our website
https://www.stroudbrewery.co.uk/work-with-us/
SPOTLIGHT – CHAdD’s FOODSMITHS
Chadd’s Foodsmiths
In 1948 Eric Chadd borrowed £100 from the local solicitor in Bude and purchased his milk round that he had operated as a young chap before and straight after the Second World War. He couldn’t have known then, but his values of customer service were laying the foundations for a business which is celebrating delivering for 70 years!
The business has changed a lot from those humble beginnings. From bottling milk and doorstep deliveries, into a Freezer Centre and Cash & Carry, through to Delivered Wholesale and the acquisition of Foodsmiths in Saltash. Eric and his son Nick were busy!
Today Chadd’s Foodsmiths cover a huge area of Devon and Cornwall, delivering daily throughout their trading area with their fleet of refrigerated vehicles stocked with over 3500 products including chilled, frozen, ice cream, ambient and non-foods. The diverse range offered accommodates all aspects of the catering industry, from traditional items and staple commodities through to speciality, fine foods and championing regional producers, as Nick would quote “the complete chefs larder.”
To celebrate this milestone Chadd’s Foodsmiths are combining their annual tradeshow and a “Celebration” at Trethorne Leisure on Wednesday 18th April. Over 30 food manufacturers and suppliers will be exhibiting, from artisan producers to international brand leaders. It is a unique opportunity to view and taste the latest products, talk to company reps and also take advantage of some fantastic offers on the day.
After 70 years, Eric would be proud that his grandson Nigel and his team still have the same passion and drive to deliver good quality service to its customers.
Why not join the Chadd’s Foodsmiths team on Wednesday 18th April? Call telesales today on 01288 353964 to find out more details.
www.chaddsfoodsmiths.co.uk.
SPOTLIGHT – PORTLANTIS
Portlantis
Following relocation to the South West in May 2016, garment decorator Portlantis Ltd has seen sales rise by over 8% in the last twelve months. Established in 2005, the company supplies logoed workwear and promotional clothing to organisations of all sizes and types, including the hospitality sector.
Founder and MD Trudy Reynolds says: “Portlantis understands that your staff are often the outward face of your business. Employees need to look good and feel comfortable at work – whether they are suited and booted at front of house, wearing chef’s gear in the kitchen or looking more casual in a polo shirt. Whatever your requirements, Portlantis seeks to understand your needs and supply the right garments at competitive prices”.
All embroidery and printing take place in-house at a dedicated facility near South Molton and turnaround times are speedy!
For more information call Trudy or Faye on 01769 550856 / 07795 565975, email sales@portlantis.com or go to www.portlantis.com.
SHOW SPOTLIGHT
Your recipe for success in 2018
The Food & Drink Trade Show in May is an unmissable event for all those involved in this innovative and fast-moving industry. Whether you are a producer, supplier or a buyer, success depends on keeping your offering fresh, on-trend and inspirational – you need to be totally up to speed with the latest developments, ideas and opportunities, meeting the movers and shakers, and getting your own products and services out there. This unique show enables you to achieve all this, and more, for a very modest investment of time or resources.
Satisfy your curiosity
The show makes it easy for you to find unusual products with fascinating provenance stories to tell – the kind that discerning customers are so hungry for. You’ll be able to meet an exclusive mix of passionate producers who are really pushing the boundaries – whether you are looking for locally sourced goods or speciality items, seasonal offerings or just the very best mainstream suppliers, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s something for everyone; with exhibitors from Abbotts (S.W) to Zenith Epos, with plenty in between. Bacon, charcuterie, chocolate, beer, wine, gin, foodservice, catering equipment, coffee, tea…it’s a unique spread of inspirational speciality food & drink products.
A feast for all your senses
These days shopping all seems to be about the internet, but there’s no way you can properly judge food and drink without tasting, touching, smelling, talking and observing. The smartest way to get this full-on sensory experience, all under one roof and in just a few hours, is to attend this show. It’s business, but it’s fun too! You get a rare opportunity to make valuable new connections, build better relationships with existing suppliers and catch up with colleagues and friends. The timing couldn’t be better, enabling you to get stocked up and raring to go before the busy summer season.
This show also gives you the chance to get your hands on something new, and by new, we mean brand new. There are several Newcomers to meet – new companies that have never before exhibited at a trade show. Meet Healthy Recipes, Moveena Nutrition, New Ewe, Seed Chocolate, Tast Natur and The Tewkesbury Mustard Company and discover their products for the very first time!
If you’re hungry for culinary inspiration The Food & Drink Trade Show also features a Demo Kitchen, hosted by Celebrity Chef Felice Tocchini, who will be joined by Andrew Link, Mark Stinchcombe and Yvette Farrell, amongst others. Share their knowledge, skills and stories – it’s informative, but great entertainment too. You’ll come away brimming with exciting ideas and fresh menu ideas that are sure to delight customers and get them enthusing about your offering.
The show is supported by Cotswold Taste, Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire, Taste of the West, and Worcestershire Food & Drink, all of whom are dedicated to supporting the growth of food and drink businesses in the Three Counties area. You can meet and chat to these organisations at the show – it’s a great opportunity to find out more about how they can help your business thrive.
Book your place now!
The Food & Drink Trade Show, held on the 2nd and 3rd May at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, is a great opportunity to get ahead of the game. You’ll discover new products for your shop, new ingredients for your menu, new equipment for your kitchen, new ideas from industry experts as well as new partners and customers. With all this on the menu, and exclusive show offers to take advantage of as well, can you afford not to be there? It’s the place to be in May!
For more information about the show, to book a stand, or register to attend, please call 01934 733433, visit thefoodanddrinktradeshow.co.uk or follow @lovefinefood.
EVENTS
Welcome to Excellence courses
8th March – 3rd May 2018
Exeter, Bournemouth and St Austell
“Welcome Host Gold customer service courses and Welcome All disability awareness courses running in locations across Devon, Dorset and Cornwall. Enhance the customer experience and reap the rewards in increased customer loyalty and repeat business. Provide great service to every single one of your customers – smart businesses know how to make everyone welcome.”
Further information available at http://www.purplecloudconsultancy.com
To book https://purplecloudconsultancy.digitickets.co.uk/tickets
April
Farm Shop & Deli Show
16th – 18th April 2018
NEC, Birmingham
“Bringing the latest developments in artisan produce, Farm Shop & Deli Show is the sector’s leading event for delicatessens, farm shops, restaurants, garden centres, food halls, butcheries and bakeries as they look to discover the latest trends in speciality food and drink.”
https://www.farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/
Food & Drink Expo
16th – 18th April 2018
NEC, Birmingham
“Showcasing some of the industry’s hottest new brands and talent, the show will provide buyers with a wealth of information and product sourcing opportunities. With over 100 live events and 250 speakers across the show portfolio, Food & Drink Expo retains its position as a show that owners and buyers in the food business can’t afford to miss.”
https://www.foodanddrinkexpo.co.uk/
Foodex
16th – 18th April 2018
NEC, Birmingham
“The UK’s premier trade event for the food and drink processing, packaging and logistics industries, Foodex returns to highlight the latest innovations in supply chain efficiency.”
https://www.foodex.co.uk/
The Ingredients Show
16th – 18th April 2018
NEC, Birmingham
A new event to provide manufacturers with a one-stop-shop for innovative new ingredients and equipment.
https://www.theingredientsshow.co.uk/
National Convenience Show
16th – 18th April 2018
NEC, Birmingham
“The National Convenience Show offers the perfect forum for convenience stores, forecourt traders, independent retailers, off-licences and wholesalers to review the best fresh produce and products, as well as identifying new technology and services that can improve efficiency and the in-store experience.”
https://www.nationalconvenienceshow.co.uk/
The Natural Food Show
22nd – 23rd April 2018
ExCel, London
“The Natural Food Show will showcase thousands of the best natural, organic and healthy food and drink products on the market.”
http://www.naturalproducts.co.uk/food/
National Coastal Tourism Academy – Free Workshops on England’s Coast Itinerary Builder
24th April 2018
Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth
Morning Session – 10-12:30
Afternoon Session – 14:00-16:30
“England’s Coast is an exciting new marketing and booking tool delivered by the National Coastal Tourism Academy. Its new interactive video technology allows holidaymakers to create their own itineraries and book directly with coastal businesses via an itinerary builder. It also targets the travel trade through independent and group itineraries.”
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/englands-coast-boosting-continental-visitors-to-your-business-morning-tickets-44795924817
Taste of the West Workshops: Food Labelling & Nutritional Information
26th April 2018
Old Mill, Exeter Business Park, EX1 3LJ
Taste of the West will be holding back-to-back workshops on Food Labelling and Nutritional Information with affiliate member Food Labelling Services. The sessions are designed to give you practical, bespoke advice to ensure your products give consumers the information they need while meeting all legal requirements in a time of complex and changing regulations. We invite our members to attend one or both sessions. A sandwich lunch will be provided between the sessions.
WORKSHOP 1: FOOD LABELLING, 9.30am – 12:00pm
WORKSHOP 2: NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION, 12.30pm – 2:00pm
Cost: TOTW members – £50 + VAT for one session or £75 + VAT for both.
Non-members of TOTW – £75 plus VAT for one session or £100 plus VAT for both.
For more information and to book, please visit https://mailchi.mp/a3c3cf9ae8fc/workshops-for-taste-of-the-west-members-685381