Lerato Marema’s Post

MEET RORY… 🐝 As the founder of Bee, Rory Laffan has been leading the way for over 20 years. The friendliest man in the industry, he has built great, genuine relationships with both people and brands. Rory is obsessed with food and even launched his own pizza business, Fired Up, which operates at some of the best summer festivals in the UK. Understanding the challenges of running a business firsthand, Rory is dedicated to easing his clients' lives with smart introductions and long-lasting connections. Rory has recently set up Punt & Dine - an extravaganza of a day in Cambridge primarily for people within hospitality. Join him on Wednesday 10th July for a slap up meal at Jesus College and a punt down the River Cam. Proceeds go to charities that mean a lot to Rory: Only A Pavement Away , Wintercomfort for the Homeless and Arthur Rank Hospice. DM us to get your tickets. In the meantime, here are Rory’s top tips for London:   🍴 Favourite restaurant? This is a tough one because I have a few favourites, but I absolutely LOVE Manteca. It's always buzzing, the food is delicious, and you don’t need to spend a lot to have a great meal. Recently, I was also blown away by the flavours at Kolae. 🍺 Favourite pub? Okay, so it's not exactly a pub, but it has that vibe and is my go-to spot for an after-work beer before I jump on the train home: The Double Standard next to our office in Kings Cross. 🔥 Place you're desperate to try? There are so many, but if I had to choose one, it would be The Ledbury. I've only ever heard amazing things about it, and I would love to experience it myself. Also, Crisp Pizza—I'm obsessed with pizza, and these guys are killing it. 🔮 What opening are you most excited about in London? I really want to try Roe because some of their dishes look incredibly clever. Also, I’m excited for when my friend Liam opens Marceline in Canary Wharf. I know how much love is going into everything, so I can't wait to see it and get down there. #beehospitality #recruitment #London #hospitality

What role do pubs play in our towns and villages? It's an interesting theory that pubs are the 'hub' of our local communities, but it's not backed up by fact - for the majority of the country. More pubs are closing than ever have before because they aren't making money. My Cousins are anomalies. One, along with her husband runs a pub in Cornwall that is beloved by a thriving, interactive and highly social community. My other Cousin runs a sports bar in the same area, targeted at students - also a highly interactive and social group. Two pubs very vertically integrated. But the you's and me's - the so-called regulars who we *think* pubs are there to serve, prefer to isolate, read our screens, scroll our socials, not engage, drink at home and not frequent those establishments we think we deserve. Paul Hollywood's wife Melissa Hollywood, who runs the Chequers Inn in Smarden, Kent, is facing the dilemma that many landlords face - a decreasing customer base that understands the pub's role in their town, yet isn't able - or willing - to support it. A business that's been running for 700 years. Arguing that a pub is a an "asset of community value" is not a winning one. It is a business and it needs customers. If it's unprofitable, it is not the responsibility of the owner to continue to support it for the good of the people who don't use it! My own view is that the traditional village pub will become a rarity, which will only increase the value of those establishments that continue to thrive and serve their market. I hate to see this happen, but whether we like it or not, we simply can't afford to keep many pubs going. https://lnkd.in/g_ScGvhM

Anyone want to buy a liquor store? In 2022 when I started planning YYCaesarfest I couldnt find a liquor store to support the event onsite. In 2023 I tried again with no success. It was too much work, staffing was an issue, sku management too difficult. Ok. I'll open my own liquor store. Little did I know, despite being very clear about my intent and told that to make it work I needed to have a 2nd corporation, its not allowed. I cant own a festival and a liquor store to support said festival. Co-op can. Why? Because they are a non-profit. You should see what Stampede gets away with under the same reasoning. Not sure liquor legislation should be different if the job of the agency is to make sure the taxes are paid and safety measures are in place to support said controlled substance. Its time to push back and get the games out of liquor and cannabis Wait until you find out what they are doing to restauraunts after over 10 years of oversight. Time for an overhaul. #tourism #hospitality #festivals #restaurants #bewildered #antiquatedsystems #government #alberta

The Labour party conference is in full swing, and doubtless there have been many fringe meetings and get-togethers, some in pubs and bars. But, comrades, pubs are for life and not just for conference, and there are steps you can take to help ensure that they not only survive but thrive #pubs #pubsnews #beer #beernews #budget2024

Hello Corporate America and Non-Profit Leaders! Did you know that Berkins on Main offers catering? Let us help you check your lists and prepare an enjoyable meal for your next event! For more information, send us an email to BerkinsCatering@gmail.com.

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As the proud owners of Lock 13 Brewpub in Sallins, County Kildare, we stand united with the entire hospitality sector across Ireland during these trying times. 🍀 Our industry, the backbone of employment and community cohesion in Ireland, faces an unprecedented challenge. The current VAT rate of 13.5% is unsustainable, risking the closure of countless establishments that are the heart and soul of our communities. We are not just businesses; we are the gathering spots where memories are made, where friendships are forged, and where the fabric of our society is woven together. From the bustling cities to the serene rural landscapes, hospitality venues are integral to the Irish way of life. Yet, without immediate action from our government, we risk losing this vital part of our heritage. The solution is clear: a reduction of the VAT rate to 9%. This is not just a number—it's a lifeline. It's about giving our pubs, restaurants, and cafes a fighting chance to survive, to thrive, and to continue serving their communities. It's about preserving the social hubs that keep the spirit of Ireland alive, especially in rural areas where they are often the only public meeting places. We urge the government to recognise the urgency of the situation and to act decisively. Reducing the VAT rate is an investment in the future of Ireland's communities, its people, and its cultural legacy. Let us come together to safeguard the future of the Irish hospitality industry. We cannot afford to wait. The time to act is now, before it's too late. #SaveIrishHospitality #Lock13Brewpub #ActNow #CommunityFirst #IrishPubs #HospitalityMatters Restaurants Association of Ireland Michael McGrath TD Paschal Donohoe Simon Harris James Lawless

Read our latest feature in Propel Info where our CEO Simon Wallis discusses all things growth for GDK in 2024 and beyond 🚀  

The best new restaurants, events and things to do this month. Read more on #CSPTimes