Today’s news in brief

Canadian restaurant chain Tim Hortons is expanding in the UK using a franchise model to grow its portfolio of 75 restaurants. After five years of testing and learning, the brand plans to open both drive-thrus and high street locations in new towns and cities across the country. Tim Hortons entered the UK in 2017, with 31 sites added in 2022. The franchise model is a key part of the company’s strategy to reach more local communities.

UKH has urged the UK government to extend business rates relief to prevent more pub closures, after new data revealed 383 pubs closed permanently in the first half of 2023 – averaging two closures per day. UKH CEO Kate Nicholls emphasised the devastating impact on communities, jobs, and local options for dining and drinking. The British Beer and Pub Association also echoed this call for relief extension.

Specialist hospitality incubator, White Rabbit Projects (WRP), has appointed Paul Deeming as its new CFO. He previously worked at André Balazs Properties, where he served as CFO for Chiltern Firehouse. WRP recently received a multi-million-pound investment from McWin and is focused on growing its portfolio, which includes brands like Lina Stores and Kricket. 

Mark Jarvis has been named the executive chef of The Mitre, a boutique hotel in Hampton Court under The Signet Collection. With over 20 years of experience, Jarvis will oversee the culinary offerings at the hotel’s riverside brasserie, 1665, and stylish bar, The Boathouse. He has trained under chef Raymond Blanc and worked at esteemed restaurants such as Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and Texture.