Today’s news in brief – 01/12/23

The RMT Union has approved a pay deal from the Rail Delivery Group, halting strike actions until at least spring 2024. The accepted offer includes a 5% pay rise retroactively applied to 2022/23 and a guarantee against compulsory redundancies until the year-end in 2024. While RMT has ceased strikes, Aslef, representing train drivers, has announced strikes from 2 to 8 December. UKH expressed relief at the RMT’s decision and urged Aslef to refrain from strikes to protect the vital Christmas trading period. 

Fenwick and Greggs unite for ‘Bistro Greggs’, a pop-up eatery at Fenwick Newcastle till New Year’s Eve. The all-day dining experience offers fine dining-style service under silver cloches. The menu elevates Greggs favourites, with duck-fat roasties and revamped Benedict. High Tea for two and a signature cocktail round out the offerings. Leo Fenwick lauds the collaboration’s unique twist, while Hannah Squirrell celebrates the venture’s French-inspired flair and culinary finesse.

Claude and Lucy Bosi will launch Josephine, a French bistro on Fulham Road. The menu, overseen by Claude, features French classics, Lyonnaise specialties, daily dishes, and the ‘Menu Des Canut’, celebrating local heritage. Josephine’s wine offerings include a metered system for flexible consumption and a curated bin-end selection. Will Smith joins as the general manager for the 76-cover space.

Hell Yeah Hospitality has appointed three new directors: James Richardson as director of operations and people, David Moffat as commercial director, and Louise McCabe as sales, marketing and brand director. The additions to the group’s leadership comes as it looks to expand its Pizza Punks brand nationally in 2024.