English chef and pub owner with Michelin-starred venues
The hospitality sector has seen worsening conditions with nearly a quarter of venues losing money, prompting calls for a 10% VAT rate to boost margins, hiring, and investment. Campaigns gain momentum as Ireland lowers its rate and prominent chefs back the move, while critics warn of hefty revenue losses.
Sephora has opened its first Scottish store in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter. The launch drew long queues, entertainment, and freebies, signaling strong local demand for prestige beauty and marking a milestone in the brand’s UK expansion.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a 20% business rates reduction for nearly 32,000 pubs, clubs and live music venues in England from April 2027, a package the government says will save a typical pub about £1,100 a year and cost roughly £100m. Ministers are proposing to fund it by reviewing reliefs for vape shops and cracking down on online tax non-compliance.
The Guardian and other outlets report increasing concern over Meta’s Ray‑Ban smartglasses. Pubs, theatres and schools ban or restrict wearables to protect privacy as regulators weigh rules. While advocates highlight accessibility benefits, critics warn surreptitious filming and harassment threaten safety in public spaces.
Independent and Guardian outlets report a flurry of openings, chef moves, and pub-to-restaurant conversions across London this September. Kerridge’s Bar & Grill evolves into two spaces; Dishoom expands; Borough Market welcomes Kismet; and new pubs and cafés join the city’s lively food landscape.
A campaign calls for reducing hospitality VAT from 20% to 10%, urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to back the plan. Signatories include chefs Heston Blumenthal and Tom Kerridge and chains like Wagamama and Pizza Express. The letter argues a lower rate will prevent closures, protect jobs and boost high streets.