The top five stories in hospitality this week 23/11 - 27/11
What were some of the top trending stories in hospitality this week? Here's our pick.
- George Osborne incurred the 'disappointment' of the industry this week after the Autumn Statement outlined an extension of tax breaks for small businesses but failed to mention the long-awaited cut in tourism VAT. Hospitality trade associations called on the Chancellor to make 'real and meaningful change'.
- Drinkers in Manchester will be feeling the Force when a new Star Wars bar launches in the city next month. Opening as part of a fan convention, the site will replicate the famous Mos Eisley Cantina bar complete with aliens, catchy music and blue milk drink.
- Diners will 'pay the price' for the Living Wage as restaurant menus get more expensive, Mitchells & Butlers has warned. The group behind All Bar One and Harvester said it would be aiming to increase consumer spending through 'tactical price opportunities' across its restaurants from next year.
- Actor Neil Morrisey has joined forces with Punch to open a 'credible chain of sustainable pubs' across the country. The sites will be billed as 'community destinations' indulging the Men Behaving Badly star's passion for real ale.
- Marriott has announced plans to open its first two AC Hotels in the UK. The 'design-led lifestyle brand' will launch in Salford Quays and Birmingham in 2016, targeting 'creative, well-travelled guests'.
For a full run-down of this week's news see here.
