Today’s news in brief – 21/01/25

A fifth of hospitality staff workers will enter the new employer NICs threshold for the first time, according to new analysis from UKH. The trade body warns that the changes to employer National Insurance Contributions will hit hospitality hardest due to the high number of employees working part-time or flexible hours. 

Greene King has acquired The Dirty Bottles pub in Alnwick, Northumberland, as part of a seven-figure investment deal. The pub, thought to have been constructed in the 1660s, has been owned by local entrepreneur Mark Jones since 2014. It has undergone many changes, including the acquisition and incorporation of adjoining properties.

Upstairs by Tom Shepherd has appointed a new commercial development chef. Dan Jones will play a pivotal role in further enhancing Staffordshire’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant’s culinary offerings, while also contributing to its expanding consultancy services. Jones returns to Upstairs, having worked alongside Shepherd from 2021 to 2024. 

Applebee’s restaurant to celebrate its 25th anniversary in Borough Market with a relaunch on 13 February. As a marker of this anniversary, Applebee’s will launch a brand new concept, menu and refurbishment of the space, as well as a continued determination to champion sustainably-sourced British seafood.