Today’s news in brief 13/11/23

Daniel Thwaites reported a turnover of £60.3m for the half-year ended 30 September, up 4% year-on-year. The group’s operating profit, however, fell from £9.9m in the same period last year to £8.8m. The drop was attributed to the impact of property disposal, with the group making only a £200k profit compared to £1.3m in 2022. Beer volumes in the pubs and inns business dropped 1% due to a “terrible” wet spell in July and August.

Loungers has opened four new sites, bringing its total Lounge openings to 203 since it reached its 200th milestone in September. The new Lounge sites include Alfredo Lounge in Louth, Lincolnshire, Bordo Lounge in Carlisle, and Muro Lounge in Hexham. Additionally, Loungers opened its 36th Cosy Club in Oxford, marking its first location in the city. The company plans to open 34 new sites across its brands in the current financial year. Loungers has stated that there is potential for at least 600 Lounges across the UK.

Temper is expanding its presence with a new location in Paddington Basin, scheduled to open on 6 December. Staying true to its core concept of “meat over fire,” the new restaurant will feature a menu with Latin American-inspired flavours. The restaurant will offer a panoramic view of London’s skyline, and its interiors will be designed with burnt orange tones, polished wood, and leather textures, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Paddington site will have 120 indoor covers and an additional 70 seats on the terrace.

Wonderland Restaurants has launched The Iceberg Lounge at Park Row, London, inspired by the fictional venue from Batman’s universe. The modern Japanese restaurant, featuring a circular bar, seafood, and a Champagne bar, opened on 10 November and offers an immersive experience within the 18,000 sq ft basement.