Today’s news in brief – 12/11/24

Various Eateries expects its group revenues to beat expectations at £50.5m for the full year to 29 September, despite like-for-like sales declining by 1% by year-end. The operator of Coppa Club and Noci revealed that the elevated group revenues generated a small positive adjusted EBITDA, which was also slightly ahead due to efficiency improvements. 

Paul UK has announced Zaf Holdings Limited as its new franchise partner. ZHL will open 10 stores over the next five years, bringing the Paul brand to key locations in the south east of England. The first store is expected to open in 2025. Established in 2017, ZHL owns and operates food and restaurant brands including over 27 Pizza Hut UK delivery units. 

Searcys has officially opened 41 Portland Place following a major refurbishment, adding to its portfolio of brasseries, bars and event spaces located across London. A Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse in Marylebone, 41 Portland Place boasts eight bright and airy versatile event spaces, including a chic rooftop terrace. 

Hull College has unveiled its newly refurbished training restaurant, Bilocca, for its Catering and Hospitality courses. The restaurant will offer them an opportunity to gain real-world industry experience under the expert guidance of knowledgeable tutors. The restaurant is named in honour of Lillian Bilocca and the Headscarf Revolutionaries, who fought to improve the safety of Hull’s fishermen in the 1960s.