Today’s news in brief – 12/12/24

UKH has called for “substantial” rates relief, citing years of overtaxation on the sector. CEO Kate Nicholls has raised concerns that some businesses with a rateable value over £500k have been “dragged” into the surcharge category and face paying higher business rates, which goes against the policy’s intention. She emphasised that this issue is pressing for businesses operating in coastal communities, where they are often the largest employer. 

Dine Contract Catering has won a long-term F&B contract for Atlas Elektronik UK (AEUK) at its Dorset headquarters. AEUK, a prime and sub-prime contractor in the naval and maritime domain, works within the Defence industry and has over 600 employees. The contract with Dine aims to improve employee wellbeing by offering healthier meal options, a nutritious salad bar, daily specials, and a rotating menu. 

Shake Shack has debuted in the Midlands, having opened a new 2,866 sq ft site at Bullring and Grand Central. The restaurant offers Shake Shack’s core menu, including breakfast burgers, its signature “ShackBurger”, crinkle-cut fries, flat-top dogs and hand-spun shakes. The burger chain joins a series of international F&B and leisure brands to open in Bullring and Grand Central, including Toca Social, Slim Chickens and Five Guys.