Today’s news in brief – 02/04/24

Revolution Bars shares have been suspended after it failed to produce interim results. It follows the closure of eight Revolution bars across England in January with the company blaming the cost of living crisis. The group confirmed it was in talks with shareholders and investors, including hospitality entrepreneur Luke Johnson, who backs Gail’s and Tortilla, about possible fundraising.

RedCat has assembled a new executive team amid a strategic review. As part of the leadership shuffle, several promotions have been made, including Miles Slade and Adam Charity stepping up as chief operating officers for RedCat and Coaching Inn Group, respectively. Meanwhile, Lee Melton has been promoted to chief people officer for RedCat Group. In conjunction, RedCat has undertaken a strategic review of its estate in the context of “significant challenges” in the operating environment of the hospitality industry. 

Foodbuy has appointed Carl Howells as its new commercial director. Howels will oversee all aspects of the procurement division of Compass Group UK&I’s hospitality operations. This involves building the client base by offering hotel clients “unparalleled efficiencies and manufacturer deals”.

Rockwater has appointed Josh Deacon as group executive chef. The position is a new role for the south coast-based group which currently operates Rockwater Hove and Rockwater Village in Branksome, Poole, and will be opening a third venue in Sandbanks this summer. Deacon has 12 years of experience as a chef, previously holding positions as executive head chef at The Stratford Hotel in east London and head chef of the Rail House Café in the City of Westminster.