Today’s news in brief – 22/04/25

Sticks’n’Sushi has revealed that F1 world champion Fernando Alonso invested in the chain alongside McWin Food Ecosystem Fund. McWin acquired a majority shareholding in Sticks’n’Sushi in February 2024. Since the acquisition, the brand has enjoyed further expansion, opening new London locations in Richmond, Islington and Battersea Power Station. The restaurant group now has 15 locations in the United Kingdom and 30 across its footprint of Denmark, Germany and the UK.

The PM has allowed pubs and bars to serve until 1am to celebrate VE day next month. With parties planned across the country on 8 May 2025, venues with a usual closing time of 11pm will be able to keep their doors open for a further two hours on the day, allowing people to continue their celebrations of the milestone. Similar extensions to pub hours have previously been used for major Royal celebrations and significant sporting events, such as the Euro 2024 final. The extension is due to be a “welcomed boost” to the hospitality industry. 

Pyro from chef Yiannis Mexis will open in London’s Borough on 1 May. The new Greek restaurant will be a celebration of cooking over fire, and feature Greek flavours and seasonal produce, reimagined in a menu of dishes designed to be shared. A space that also features a large bar and outdoor terrace, Pyro will encapsulate the “laid back buzzy joy” of a Greek Taverna. Beginning his journey at Elystan Street, Mexis then worked at The Ledbury and Petrus. 

A new bar concept, Vanessa’s, has officially opened on South Road in Waterloo, Liverpool. The opening comes after former accountant, Vanessa Lovegrove, began refurbishing the venue with husband Stuard in November last year. Vanessa’s look has been described as “distinctly speakeasy” with rich red furnishings, glimmers of gold and wood, and statement flooring. The refurbishment added a new DJ booth, state-of-the-art sound system, mood lighting, and different zones to suit guests’ mood.