Today’s news in brief – 20/01/25

The latest Scottish budget will leave more than 2,500 businesses ineligible for support, UKH claims. The new measures outlined in the budget will provide 40% business rates relief for venues with a rateable venue up to £51k. The trade body fears that these measures entrench Scottish hospitality’s lack of competitiveness with equivalent venues in England. 

UK drinks sales dipped 9% in the first full week of January, according to CGA data, as consumers reduced their in-person visits to venues after Christmas and New Year. The “slow” week is in contrast to the final fortnight of last year, when sales jumped by 4% and 8% year-on-year. Trading in the first full week of 2025 was also negative on all seven days.  

Caffe Nero has reported a sales rise of 14% for the five-week Christmas period, as the coffee house chain had two “record” sales weeks and its highest ever single day of trading. It comes as Caffè Nero sites across the UK saw like-for-like sales rise 9% compared with the same period last year.

US-based fast-casual chain Captain D’s has signed a 20-multi-unit franchise deal in the UK. The agreement, signed with an experienced team of restaurant operators, will introduce the chain’s “signature” seafood offering to Europe, starting with the first restaurant in the London area in 2025. Captain D’s is advancing its vision to become a global brand.