Today’s news in brief – 19/12/23
Drinks sales in managed venues fell by 9% for the week ending 9 December, compared with the same period last year. Alcohol categories struggled due to World Cup comparatives, while midweek performance suggests modest average growth. As festive occasions approach, operators seek to maintain footfall amidst weather and rail strike concerns, as they aim for profitable Christmas sales.
Knoops marked a 67% revenues surge to £4.43m and a 206% rise in EBITDA. Online sales grew by 48%, with robust cold drink sales peaking at 101% in July. The company aims to double in 2024 after clearing debts with an £8.3m fundraiser, eyeing 20 new stores and a long-term goal of 200 in the UK and 3,000 worldwide by 2030.
SSP Group has expanded into North America and the Middle East, acquiring ECG Ventures Limited in Canada, which added five restaurants to Calgary and Edmonton Airports. This followed the recent acquisition of Midfield Concession. Additionally, SSP signed a contract in Saudi Arabia, bringing 26 F&B units to Jeddah Airport, featuring international and local brands like Jamie Oliver Kitchen and Cafe Bateel.
Carters will be opening a pop-up in Birmingham’s member’s club, Eighteen, on Colmore Row from 2 February to 31 May 2024. This pop-up ‘Chef’s Table’ will offer a multi-course dining experience, showcasing top-tier UK produce paired with expertly matched drinks. The pop-up anticipates the opening of a permanent city centre restaurant in summer 2024.
