Today’s news in brief – 17/03/25

On-premise drinks sales have seen above-inflation growth for three consecutive weeks, following a “challenging” January and early February. Sales recovered in the third week of February and momentum has continued. CGA by NIQ’s Daily Drinks Tracker indicates growth of 4% in the week to 1 March, as good weather moved in and February pay cheques unlocked some extra spending. 

Five trade bodies have launched the CareerScope hub to help those who have lost their jobs or their businesses due to the number of closures in the hospitality sector. It comes as many businesses are already foreclosing, and many more are reporting expected staff cuts. The CareerScope Hospitality Support Hub aims to support people looking to top up their employability skills, search for jobs, and receive financial and redundancy advice. 

Sandwich Sandwich has appointed Paul Hanna as its new COO. In his new role, Hanna will work closely with owner Nick Kleiner and the board on setting and driving the organisational vision and operational strategy for the group’s expansion plans. Prior to joining, Hanna worked as head of operations at B Bagel. With nine years of operations management experience, he was also group head of operations and franchise of Coptoir Group. 

Holy Carrot has secured a second site in the Old Spitalfields Market, which is set to open in late 2025. The new venture’s design will take cues from the vibrancy of East London and the rich history of Spitalfields. Following a successful pop-up in Knightsbridge in May 2021, Holy Carrot launched a flagship restaurant in Notting Hill in July 2024, with chef owner Daniel Watkins at the helm.