Today’s news in brief – 06/02/25

Di Maggio Restaurants is looking to expand after its FY turnover rose 7.8% to £49.5m. The Glasgow-based operator of 11 French and Italian hospitality concepts also revealed that its operating profit before exceptional items jumped by 21.5% to £6.2m in the period. The group is also trading profitably post year-end. 

Comptoir Group has reappointed Chaker Hanna as its CEO. He will take over from Nick Ayerst, who had been due to step down at the end of this month, but will now leave the board and role immediately. Hanna was part of the team who launched the first Bella Italia and has also worked with brands such as Chili’s, Pizza Hut and Maggiano’s.

Company of Cooks has secured over £18m in retained business in London, having extended its partnerships with all the Livery venues in its portfolio. The deals range from three to five years. In March 2023, Company of Cooks merged with hospitality business CH&CO. It offers specialism in catering and hospitality for the visitor attraction and cultural sectors.

Casa Cruz in Notting Hill has named Jacob Rowley its new head chef as it approached its 10th anniversary. Rowley joins after a tenure at Hampshire’s Oakley Hall, where he received multiple ‘Restaurant of the Year’ awards. His career also includes experience in two Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star Mayfair hotels, and a period in Tasmania.