Today’s news in brief – 19/11/24

Compass Group has acquired Zero Procure, a procurement firm that will sit within the Foodbuy UK and Ireland family of companies. Zero Procure provides services to a portfolio of clients, including a range of hotels and restaurants. For Zero Procure clients, the collaboration ensures access to a “robust” and “reliable” supply chain. 

Wendy’s UK will open four new restaurants as part of an expansion drive. The fast food chain aims to open new sites in Newcastle, Rutland, Colchester and another in London on Fulham Road. Wendy’s has also entered into a development agreement with Khidmat Limited to bring six restaurants to the southwest. 

Nando’s has expanded its apprenticeship programme in Scotland and launched its Level 5 apprenticeship in England, bringing a full career pathway into the industry. This latest launch in Scotland means that opportunities are now available across more than 450 Nando’s restaurants. Nando’s has already welcomed 20 apprentices onto the Scottish programme. 

Hydes has reopened The Hornsmill in Chester following a £500k refurbishment, which saw the dining pub undergo a full interior overhaul including redecoration, new furniture, and fixtures, as well as a reconfigured bar layout to provide more space for seating and dining areas. The pub group acquired the Helsby pub in 2015.