News Bites
England fans splashed out on food and drink for the Women’s World Cup final
It was predicted that 2.6 million people would be heading to pubs, bars and restaurants to watch the Women’s World Cup final held on 20 August. Retail spend was predicted to reach £137.8m in the run up to the match, and total hospitality spend could have been around £47m.
New FSA guidance on glycerol in slush-ice drinks
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) have updated guidance after a risk assessment which found that children below the age of 4 might suffer from headaches and sickness caused by exposure to glycerol, so they’re advising that the drinks are not suitable for under 4s.
UKHospitality urges government to continue offering business rates relief
According to analysis from UKHospitality, hospitality sector bills could rise by £220m next year if business rates increase with inflation. Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “The ending of current business rates relief next April could mean an additional £630m hit, while inflationary increase to rates adds a further £220m. Together, it’s an almost billion-pound bill.” She’s calling for urgent action from the government to avoid this upcoming bill.
Takeaway pints are here to stay
It’s been decided by the government that Covid rules surrounding takeaway drinks are here to stay, with the rules extended until March 2025. The rules allow pubs without an off-premises licence to sell takeaway alcohol without having to apply to their local council for permission. Kate Nicholls said that many businesses had benefited from pavement licences and the decision is a “welcome dose of common sense”.