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
Free water makes Brits buy more
New research has revealed that nearly two-thirds of Brits (64%) would be more likely to make a purchase if visiting a business that provides free water to customers.
The YouGov survey of more than 2,000 people, commissioned by BRITA Professional and environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy, also highlighted that 64% of consumers would be more likely to return for future purchases if they could refill their water bottle. While 62% said it would make them choose a business that offered free refills over a competitor. Furthermore, 73% would view a business more favourably if it gave free tap or filtered water on request.
Three quarters of respondents (73%), would be encouraged to use a reusable bottle if they could help themselves to drinking water in shops or cafés and not need to ask staff for it, while almost two thirds (63%) think food and drink businesses should be required to provide free tap or filtered water to anyone who asks for it.
The research is part of BRITA Professional’s wider #SwapForGood campaign, which aims to help eradicate the use of single-use plastic bottles.
Sarah Taylor, Managing Director, BRITA UK, said: The damage single-use plastic is doing to our marine and wider environment and marine life has been well documented, and it is clear many people are committed to tackling this. However, there is much more we can all do to help people swap for good by making it as easy as possible for them to refill and stay hydrated. Not only is this a move in the right direction, but it makes business sense too – as, the latest insights showed, consumers will be more likely to purchase from businesses that offer refills.”
Sheppy’s secures first national listing in Tesco
Somerset cidermaker Sheppy’s have secured a nationwide listing for two of their new craft cider products in Tesco stores.
Two ciders – VAT14 Classic Cider and VAT 07 Cloudy Cider – will be available in 330ml cans on the shelves of 400 Tesco stores across the UK.
This will be the first time Sheppy’s has secured a UK-wide listing with the country’s biggest supermarket and the first time the producer has made its cider available in cans. Sheppy’s will also be supplying its 500ml bottles of Vintage Reserve Cider and Original Cloudy Cider.
David Sheppy, master of cider said: “We’re delighted to have secured this listing with Tesco, it’s an exciting step for the brand. The launch of our contemporary cans came after a strategic rebrand last year, where we unveiled a new look bottle design as well. This cemented our premium positioning and reinforced the authenticity of the brand.”
Tesco cider buyer Rosie Goodson said: “Today cider drinkers are becoming more sophisticated in their tastes and we are seeing increased demand for craft ciders. With that in mind, we wanted to expand our range in this area – and so it made perfect sense to work with a long-established craft producer like Sheppy’s, which already has a strong track record with us in the South West. With the provenance behind the Sheppy’s brand, we are hoping that the new cans will appeal to craft cider drinkers across the UK.”
Spanish seafood tapas bar to open at Bristol’s Cargo
Gambas, a seafood-focused Spanish tapas bar, will be the latest addition to Wapping Warf’s Cargo 2 on Bristol’s harbourside. Set to open in June, it will replace Spuntino, which is closing in May, in the shipping container-based development.
Inspired by the seafood markets of Spain, it is being launched by husband and wife team, Kieran and Imogen Waite, who also run Bravas on Cotham Hill and Wapping Warf’s Cargo Cantina.
Specialising in Spanish tapas, seafood and paella, it will also have a seafood counter for shoppers to buy fresh produce delivered from Cornwall, to cook at home.
Kieran Waite said: “This spot at CARGO 2 is the perfect location for Gambas as it’s right on the harbourside with a fantastic terrace offering views that you really can’t find anywhere else in Bristol. It is hugely important to us that our restaurants reflect their context, and we are so excited to offer diners a place to truly relax, soak up the sunshine and fabulous views and, of course, tuck into delicious food.
“We love being part of the Wapping Wharf community with all its different businesses, reflecting Bristol’s unique independent spirit, and it was a no-brainer for us to open up Gambas there.”
St Austell Brewery wins Queen’s Award
Cornwall’s St Austell Brewery have been given the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, based on their success in sustainable development.
CEO James Staughton said, “St Austell Brewery is a company made up of many different functions including brewing, logistics and pubs – all of them award winners in their own right – but the Queen’s Award recognises the efforts of everyone at all levels across the business and that makes the award unique and very special.
“Winning the Queen’s Award is an enormous honour for all of us as it is the highest accolade that any business in the UK can aspire to but the exacting criteria of the awards process, especially in the field of sustainable development, also acted as an excellent way for us to review our aims and behaviours to confirm that our actions and decisions were aligned and that we really are doing as much as we possibly can to make our operations as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible.”
As part of the awards summary, St Austell Brewery is “described as a Cornish brewer and pub company that aims to deliver distinctive customer experiences through great products, innovation and sustainable business operations. The Brewery helped set up the Cornish Barley Growers’ Initiative to reintroduce barley as a staple crop into the county and last year pledged its commitment to healthy seas and sustainable fisheries by joining Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Cornwall Good Seafood Guide.” Additionally, they “significantly reduced…water consumption through investments in research and development. Energy saving measures and use of renewables enabled St Austell Brewery’s Central Distribution Centre to go grid-free for half of 2016. 98 percent of the company’s waste is now diverted from landfill, and it uses local, ethical suppliers.”
FOOD & DRINK NEWS
Quicke’s unveil Britain’s longest-aged clothbound cheddar
Devon cheesemakers Quicke’s are releasing the first wedges of its Vintage Clothbound Cheddar made using Cornish Sea Salt. The truckles are matured for 24 months, making it Britain’s longest-aged clothbound cheddar.
The producer says that the addition of Cornish sea salt has “now elevated the Vintage’s unique flavour profile, enhancing the award-winning recipe and adding an extra zing on the palate.”
Quicke’s Vintage Clothbound Cheddar is the best-selling cheese at Harrods and is also available at Waitrose, Whole Foods Market, Borough Market and London Farmers’ Markets, as well as many independent stores across the UK. The cheese can also be purchased from www.quickes.co.uk; 200g £5.55, 500g £13.30, 1.5kg £35.00.
Luscombe introduce new sparkling waters
Luscombe drinks, based in Devon, has launched a new range of organic Sparkling Fruit Waters. The first three flavours in the new range are Passion Fruit, Sour Cherry, and Raspberry. They are available in 27cl glass bottles with an RRP of £1.95 each.
Gabriel David, chairman and founder of Luscombe Drinks, said: “For the first time, sales of bottled water have exceeded sales of cola. This has been driven by the trend towards healthier low-calorie drinks with reduced sugar content, and the success of premium sparkling waters… However, unlike many of the fruit waters currently on the market, the Luscombe range have a high fruit content to ensure the real taste of the fruit comes through – not just a hint.
“The concept is actually quite simple. We’ve taken soft Devon spring water and added carbonation and lots of rich organic fruit. As with all our drinks, they don’t contain any fruit concentrates or artificial flavourings.”
For further information go to www.luscombe.co.uk.
New direction for Box Steam Brewery beers
Wiltshire-based Box Steam Brewery have announced two new craft beers, Pony Truck and Steam Town, that “represent a bold new direction for the…brewery.”
Pony Truck is a New World pale ale, 3.8% ABV and Steam Town, a transatlantic IPA, 5.2% ABV, both available in keg and 300ml bottle.
Andy Roberts, head of Box Steam Brewery, said: “We felt the timing right to apply our knowledge and understanding of ale craft to something new.”
APPOINTMENTS
New head chef for No.15 Great Pulteney Bath
Oliver Clarke has joined the No.15 Great Pulteney hotel in Bath as head chef. The boutique hotel is owned by hoteliers Christa and Ian Taylor who previously owned the Abbey Hotel in Bath, where Clarke previously worked as a Sous Chef. The Taylors sold the 62-bedroom property to JE Hotels earlier this year.
As well as his stint at the Abbey Hotel, Clarke worked at Bordeaux Quay in Bristol, Langdon Court in Decon and the Beckford Arms in Tisbury. In his role at No.15, he “brings contemporary touches and flavours to his classically-grounded modern British style of cooking.”
Grand Pier Weston-Super-Mare announces new head chef
Jeff Nenonen has been appointed head chef of the Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare.
He will be in charge of the catering across the Pier’s Captain Jack’s Bar, Boardwalk Café and Tifanny’s Tea Room & Restaurant as well as the venue’s conference and event catering.
Nenonen has over 24 years’ experience in catering taking in gastropubs, hotels and most recently, the head chef at the Oaktree Arena.
PROPERTY
17th-century pub in Devon on market for £260,000
The Barnstaple Inn in the North Devon Village of Burrington has been closed since March 2016, after the death of the previous landlord. Now on the market for £260,000 for the freehold, agents Charles Darrow are looking for new owners to “restore the pub to its past glories.”
The thatched property has an open plan lounge and bar which can host up to 30 customers. It has a skittle alley/function room that could be used as a restaurant plus doors leading out to a paved patio with raised decking. Owners accommodation includes three bedrooms and a private lounge.
Under the previous owners, the pub did not serve food and the agents say that “while the kitchen is in need of modernisation and the pub needs investment, this provides a great opportunity to redevelop.”
Charles Darrow Director Jon Clyne commented: “The Barnstaple Inn represents a cracking opportunity to purchase a freehold public house in what is a lovely village location in North Devon.
“The business ceased trading due to a bereavement, however, given the communities’ support, we are certain that in the right hands, with investment the property could be returned to its former glory.”
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/
SHOW SPOTLIGHT
Chef Demonstrations at The Food & Drink Trade Show.
A range of talented chefs will be preparing dishes to delight the senses on the Love Food Roadshow‘s demonstration kitchen. Hosted by Celebrity Chef Felice Tocchini, the kitchen will feature a range of exciting and informative cookery demonstrations.
Timetable
WEDNESDAY 2 MAY
12.00 – Felice Tocchini – A Taste of the Three Counties
13.00 – Yvette Farrell – Wild garlic gnocchi with roasted belly of pork, and wild garlic greens
14.00 – Andy Link
15.00 – Felice Tocchini
THURSDAY 3 MAY
12.00 – Felice Tocchini
13.00 – Mark Stinchcombe – From Farm to Fork
14.00 – Felice Tocchini
Felice Tocchini
Owner of Feli’s Bar & Restaurant (formerly Fusion Brasserie), Felice has been in catering since the age of six. His parents took on a village bar and it was Felice’s job to make coffee, which he loved. Moving from his home nation of Italy where he had trained at the prestigious Ferdinando Martini Catering College to the UK in the 1980’s, Felice’s first position was as Commis chef at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre restaurants in Stratford-upon-Avon. Felice quickly graduated from Commis chef to head chef and chef manager for the Royal Shakespeare Theatre’s restaurants and hotels.
Felice is a passionate chef with a passion for locally sourced seasonal produce. His television appearances have included cooking demonstrations and topic-based discussions as a celebrity chef on a range of series from Countryfile to The One Show. He is a contributor to both the esteemed Novelli’s Academy and Eckington Manor Cookery School.
www.jeanchristophenovelli.com/chefs/felice-tocchini
www.felicetocchini.com
Andrew Link
Andy Link is Chef Patron at the acclaimed Riverside Pub at Aymestry. He has been dishing up delicious food at this North Herefordshire pub for over 10 years. Good food is at the heart of the popular 16th-century coaching inn, and guests can look forward to enjoying freshly picked produce from Mr Link’s kitchen garden, meat from local farms, and fish from nearby rivers. The restaurant sources from the best local suppliers, and consideration of traceability, sustainability and seasonality of every dish is key. The two-acre working kitchen garden is managed, planted and harvested by his team of chefs, bringing a true seed to plate ethos back to the restaurant. Andy’s aim over the coming years is to push this further, limiting the whole menu to food grown or sourced only within the local catchment, using the restaurant as a hub to promote the region’s producers.
The Riverside Pub were Finalists in the ‘Best Eating Out’ category at the Visit Herefordshire Awards for Excellence 2016 and were the winners in 2017.
www.riversideaymestrey.co.uk
Mark Stinchcombe
Chef Mark Stinchcombe is one half of the culinary couple behind the extraordinary Eckington Manor food offering, alongside his wife Sue. He won Masterchef: The Professionals, in 2015.
Mark’s love of food began while he was still at school and he entered the kitchens of the acclaimed Royal Crescent in Bath, on work experience at only 16 years of age. His training has taken him to some of the most prestigious kitchens in the world, including Ston Easton Park in Somerset, Driftwood in Cornwall, The Fat Duck, Le Manoir and The Square. Following this, he started working at Lucknam Park (under Chef Hywell Jones). It was at Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham, where he stayed for 2 ½ years, that Mark added classic French cuisine to his burgeoning craft, as well as meeting his future wife and co-chef, Sue.
Eckingon Manor operates a farm to fork philosophy. They combine British and European cuisine with the odd dish from further afield to create diverse and imaginative seasonal menus that incorporate locally grown produce from their award-winning farm, orchard, vegetable and herb gardens, and the surrounding area.
www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk
Yvette Farrell
Yvette Farrell, Principal of Harts Barn Cookery School, is passionate about the Forest, local produce and nature’s own larder – she is a trained horticulturist and has elevated the Cookery School to winning Forest Business of the Year 2016 and was named Forest of Dean Business Person of the Year in 2015.
The Cookery School prides itself on offering ‘COOKING FOR ALL’. It is based in the beautiful Forest of Dean on an awe-inspiring site that dates back to 1068. The focus is to offer classes that are accessible, affordable, give confidence and are lots of fun. The school opens its doors to first-time cooks, children, local businesses wanting a corporate occasion or cooks wanting to improve their skills or learn something completely new.
Yvette also offers a Hire a Chef service for private and event catering, regular Supper Clubs, kids and adult parties, venue hire and holiday activities for kids.
www.hartsbarncookeryschool.co.uk
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
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
Tourism Awards Workshop
30th April 2018
The American Museum, Bath. BA2 7BD
“Join us at this Awards workshop where we will be sharing experiences and advice on what makes an excellent, award-winning business, with tips and ideas on how to be the best in the forthcoming tourism awards.”
Tea, coffee and a sandwich lunch will be included.
For more information and to book, please visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tourism-awards-workshop-the-american-museum-bath-tickets-44307076659