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Caterer Licensee & Hotelier News, 3, Carlton Mount, 2 Cranborne Road, Bournemouth (2026)

13/01/2026

Woodman Chairs

Woodman Chairs is a long established manufacturer and supplier of wooden chairs, stools, benches, frames and tables, to the UK contract, hospitality and retail markets for well over thirty years
Sensibly priced, we offer our own lines or can make bespoke for your own special needs, All our product is well made, thoughtfully designed, sturdy and built to last, with styles ranging from traditional to modern. We can supply finished, or in the raw wood and with a choice of seat pad options. Pads and fabrics – either ours or COM - can be “Crib 5” compliant for contract use.

We are also able to make frames or components for you to upholster or assemble. So, also of interest to upholsterers and those in UK looking to outsource some, possibly difficult or time consuming manufacturing, such as stools, benches, boxes, etc. MOQ’s may apply. See us in a broader sense than just doing the more straightforward, able to think and make outside the box.

Working mainly in beech, oak, pine, lime and ash we can, however, work in other woods. All our product is FSC and responsibly sourced, in most cases with a direct line of supply from the forests themselves.

We carry a lot of stock and a wide range, but when not held, lead times are good.

Have a look at our website www. woodmanchairs.co.uk for a general idea of what we offer “off the shelf”. This does not cover all we make by a long way, as much of our supply is bespoke.

If you want chairs or tables, or might want a chair style made to your design, or would like to know more about us and what we could offer you, please contact us at
[email protected] or on 01884 841789.

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Woodman Chairs is a long established manufacturer and supplier of wooden chairs, stools, benches, frames and tables, to the UK contract, hospitality and retail markets for well over thirty years Sensibly priced, we offer our own lines or can make bespoke for your own special needs, All our product i...

13/01/2026

The Perfect Night’s Sleep for Your Guests

At HotelContractBeds, we’ve been supplying the hospitality industry with premium contract beds and mattresses for over 40 years. Whether you're running a boutique B&B, a busy hotel chain, or student accommodation, we offer a bespoke service that ensures you get the perfect beds to suit your needs.

As specialist UK manufacturers, we take pride in delivering high-quality, durable, and comfortable beds that meet strict UK & EU fi re safety regulations (BS 7177:2008 – Crib 5), ensuring your guests sleep safely and soundly.

Why Choose HotelContractBeds?
✓ Premium Quality Beds & Mattresses – Zip & Link, Divan, Bed Bases & More…
✓ No Minimum Order Value – Whether you need one bed or a whole hotel’s worth
✓ FREE UK Delivery – Reliable weekly deliveries for your convenience
✓ Competitive Prices – Exceptional quality without the premium price tag

Our zip & link beds offer ultimate fl exibility, allowing rooms to convert from twin to double in minutes—perfect for hotels catering to varied guest needs. From luxury hotel mattresses to budget-friendly options, we cater to all types of commercial accommodation.

Join thousands of satisfi ed customers across the UK who trust HotelContractBeds for unmatched quality, comfort, and service.

Ready to upgrade your guest experience?

Visit HotelContractBeds.co.uk today or call us (01234 834693) to discuss your requirements!

Read More:

At HotelContractBeds, we’ve been supplying the hospitality industry with premium contract beds and mattresses for over 40 years. Whether you're running a boutique B&B, a busy hotel chain, or student accommodation, we offer a bespoke service that ensures you get the perfect beds to suit your needs....

13/01/2026

Mayfair Furniture

Mayfair Furniture will be celebrating 12 years this year of providing the UK’s fastest and affordable commercial furniture. Supplying all kinds of establishments from high end hotel chains to small local takeaways.

We keep in stock a huge variety of items ready for immediate dispatch, and can fulfil a wide range of bespoke orders. We deliver to all areas of the UK, Ireland & Europe.

We are not just a supplier; we understand that from time to time hospitality and leisure establishments like to give themselves a fresh new look. That's why not only do we supply contract furniture, but when it's time for your establishment to go through a refurbishment we also offer a complete clearance service.

We'll organise everything from a suitable time and date, professional clearance staff to remove contract furniture whether fitted or unfitted. Along with our sister company Caterfair who provides commercial catering equipment for your kitchens we are the ideal people to speak to when you are looking to refurbish.

01733 310115
[email protected]
www.mayfairfurniture.co.uk

Read More:

Mayfair Furniture will be celebrating 12 years this year of providing the UK’s fastest and affordable commercial furniture. Supplying all kinds of establishments from high end hotel chains to small local takeaways. We keep in stock a huge variety of items ready for immediate dispatch, and can fulf...

13/01/2026

Bridging Design and Accessibility with Stannah’s Stairlift at Luxury Islay Hotel

Ardbeg House, a boutique luxury hotel on the picturesque island of Islay, Scotland, has opened its doors as a truly immersive whisky and hospitality experience, with a newly installed Stannah Stairiser CR2 inclined platform lift providing guests with full accessibility to upper floors.

Designed in collaboration with Russell Sage Studio, Ardbeg House honours the heritage of Ardbeg while creating immersive spaces that reflect the island’s culture and the distillery’s iconic history. Over 20 local and Scottish architects contributed to weaving Ardbeg’s story into the hotel’s design, which also involved seamlessly integrating the Stannah Stairiser CR2 with customised solutions. Stannah Lifts collaborated closely with Russell Sage Studio and main contractor Thomas Johnstone to supply a custom lift solution that met both the functional and aesthetic requirements.

The hotel required a custom solution to provide disabled access to its upper floors, which presented three main challenges. The first challenge was accessing the island, as transporting equipment involved careful planning and coordination with ferry services to ensure timely delivery and installation without disrupting the renovation schedule.

The second challenge was addressing the space constraints. The hotel had no space to accommodate a passenger lift, so an inclined platform lift was the best option. However, the staircase area was small, requiring a compact design. Following a detailed assessment of the space, a Stannah CR2 inclined platform lift was chosen as the ideal solution. The lift’s slimline design further minimised wall projection, and the platform folds neatly when not in use, preserving staircase space. The platform dimensions of 800mm by 1000mm comfortably accommodate a wheelchair and user, while raised ramps and safety barrier arms ensure secure and safe operation.

The goal was to provide safe and reliable access for wheelchair users without disrupting the visual appeal of the hotel interiors. To achieve this, a bespoke colour was selected for the platform lift, ensuring it blended seamlessly with the surrounding walls and décor.

The Stairiser CR2 now provides safe and reliable access to the two upper floors of Ardbeg House, allowing all guests to enjoy the hotel’s immersive and unique experience. Equipped with remote call stations, wheelchair users can summon the lift independently from the top or bottom of the stairs, ensuring convenient operation.

Designed for use on a curved rail, the Stairiser CR2 follows the natural flow of the staircase while keeping outward projection to a minimum. This innovative feature makes the Stairiser CR2 equally well suited for installations featuring a single turn, multiple landings or spiral configurations.

To ensure the stairlift complemented the hotel’s rich Ardbeggian interiors, the rail and carriage were finished in a custom green paint specifically chosen to match the hotel's décor. This carefully considered design decision allowed the lift to feel like a natural part of the space, making the lift an integral element of the storytelling and design.

With the installation of the Stairiser CR2 completed in just two days, Ardbeg House continues to offer a world-class whisky and hospitality experience that is now fully accessible to every guest.

For more information, visit: www.stannahlifts.co.uk

Read More:

Ardbeg House, a boutique luxury hotel on the picturesque island of Islay, Scotland, has opened its doors as a truly immersive whisky and hospitality experience, with a newly installed Stannah Stairiser CR2 inclined platform lift providing guests with full accessibility to upper floors. Designed in c...

13/01/2026

2026 Bathroom Trends with Fitzroy of London

From seamlessly integrated design to innovative technology, 2026 an exciting time for accessible bathroom design as it will redefine how inclusivity is approached in high-end spaces. Mark Shepherd, Head of Product at Fitzroy of London, shares his insights into upcoming trends shaping luxury bathrooms.

“We are seeing premium, tactile materials being paired with custom detailing and finishes. This is especially helpful for those who require visual support. The result is a luxurious bathroom that can keep up with the needs of the user, without designers having to compromising on style in the process.”

“Innovative solutions like touchless interfaces and voice activated controls are now starting to find their way into luxury bathroom design and environments, however a balanced approach is required to ensure that the user experience isn’t compromised when it comes to accessible needs.”

“Where form meets function, wet room layouts are being offered for a more open plan and luxurious spa-like experience. Wet rooms lend themselves perfectly to accessibility with their barrier-free layouts, but in 2026 we are seeing the elevation of these spaces with elements such as floating vanities and sleek grab rail friendly designs to aid seamless mobility.”

“For designers and specifiers, sustainability is as much about compliance and futureproofing as it is about environmental ethics. Nature-inspired design continues to gain momentum, including elements such as living walls, organic materials and plenty of natural light to foster tranquillity. When it comes to product development, sustainability is no longer considered optional – it is necessary from the start of the design process. We are seeing eco-flow and low energy fixtures increasing in demand, as well as luxury bathroom products with integrated timers and consumption monitors.”

www.fitzroyoflondon.com

Read More:

From seamlessly integrated design to innovative technology, 2026 an exciting time for accessible bathroom design as it will redefine how inclusivity is approached in high-end spaces. Mark Shepherd, Head of Product at Fitzroy of London, shares his insights into upcoming trends shaping luxury bathroom...

13/01/2026

NTIA Seeks Legal Advice On Businesses Marginalised From Rates Support

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has confirmed it is seeking legal advice following continued government signalling, through media briefings rather than formal policy announcements, that upcoming business rates relief may be limited to pubs, while excluding large parts of the night-time economy. With no confirmed details released, businesses across the sector remain trapped in a cycle of leaks, speculation, and second-guessing, leaving thousands of livelihoods in limbo as the industry awaits an imminent government announcement.

Industry leaders warn that this ongoing uncertainty is causing serious mental, financial, and operational harm to business owners and workers, many of whom are already under extreme pressure. The NTIA says this approach is not just damaging, but deeply irresponsible when people’s jobs, businesses, and mental wellbeing are on the line.

Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“The constant second-guessing and drip-fed communication we are seeing from government is not benign, it is mental torture for thousands of business owners and the people working within our sector. When livelihoods are at stake, this level of uncertainty is cruel and unnecessary. You cannot talk about getting young people into work while simultaneously destabilising the very industries that employ them.”

Kill added that the suggestion this issue relates only to pubs is misleading and risks marginalising huge swathes of the night-time economy, including nightclubs, live music venues, theatres, casinos, bars, late-night restaurants, and cultural spaces.

“What makes one business category more deserving of support than another? Pubs are important, but they are only one part of a much wider ecosystem. These venues rely on each other to survive. Dividing the sector in this way is not reform, it is discrimination by design, and we are now seeking legal advice on the government’s apparent position to marginalise large parts of our industry. If support is narrowly targeted while others are knowingly left to fail, this will be met with a robust response.”

Business rates across the night-time economy are forecast to rise by an average of 76%, with half of venues facing increases of 50% or more, and many operators bracing for rises of between 100% and 200% from April 2026. Independent venues are particularly exposed, with little financial resilience left after years of cumulative economic pressure.

Sacha Lord, Chair of the Night Time Industries Association, said:
“This uncertainty is exhausting and deeply damaging. Businesses cannot plan, invest, or retain staff when policy is leaked one day and contradicted the next. Supporting pubs alone while leaving the rest of the sector exposed would be totally unfair and economically reckless. Small independent restaurants, clubs, venues, and cultural spaces are already closing in droves, this approach risks accelerating that collapse.”

Across the UK, real-world examples highlight the scale of the crisis, with nightclubs facing rates increases of over 120%, independent theatres seeing their bills more than double, casinos anticipating 100% rises, and bars, restaurants, and music venues reporting increases of up to 200%. These increases threaten not just individual businesses, but entire local ecosystems of employment, supply chains, and cultural activity.

“These are not abstract figures,” Kill added. “They represent real people, real jobs, and real communities. Prolonged uncertainty inflicts emotional and psychological damage as well as financial harm.”

The NTIA is calling on the government to urgently provide clarity and apply any business rates intervention fairly and consistently across the entire night-time economy. Industry leaders warn that failure to do so risks widespread job losses, particularly among young and creative workers, the collapse of independent cultural venues, long-term damage to the UK’s creative infrastructure, and erosion of the UK’s global reputation for nightlife and culture.

The message from the sector is clear: this is not just about pubs. It is about fairness, livelihoods, and mental wellbeing. April 2026 is fast approaching, and if the government continues down a path that marginalises large parts of the night-time economy, the NTIA will continue to challenge that position, including through legal scrutiny.

Read More:

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has confirmed it is seeking legal advice following continued government signalling, through media briefings rather than formal policy announcements, that upcoming business rates relief may be limited to pubs, while excluding large parts of the night-time....

13/01/2026

Card Spending Falls In December, But Pub Spending Returns To Growth

Growth in consumer card spending decreased –1.7 per cent year-on-year in December, a further decline from November (-1.1 per cent) and considerably less than the latest CPIH inflation rate of 3.5 per cent.

However, Pub spending returned to growth in December, up 1.9 per cent, after three consecutive months of decline. Festive socialising was a significant contributor, with transaction volumes spiking on 13th and 20th December, the two Saturdays before Christmas.

Amid the growing popularity of Dry January, half (50 per cent) say they’re planning a quieter January with fewer social plans, rising to 56 per cent for those aged 18-34. Two in five (40 per cent) report limiting socialising due to costs, as 39 per cent overall say the expense prevents them from going out as often as they would like to.

The overall decrease marked the greatest annual fall in spending since February 2021 (-9.5 per cent), as consumers continue to combat rising costs by making and planning cutbacks.

Consumer confidence showed signs of recovery, with confidence in household finances rising to 66 per cent (up from 64 per cent in November and 63 per cent in October) albeit below 2025’s average of 70 per cent. Similarly, consumers are regaining confidence in their job security and ability to spend on non-essentials, which both improved three percentage points month-on-month, to 46 per cent and 55 per cent respectively. Confidence in the UK economy grew to 24 per cent, after remaining subdued at 22 per cent in both October and November.

Despite improving consumer confidence, food price and general inflation concerns both increased in December, to 86 per cent and 85 per cent respectively (from 84 per cent and 83 per cent in November). Two in three (64 per cent) say they plan to cut spending on groceries in 2026, and of this group, three in five (59 per cent) say they will make use of loyalty schemes, 52 per cent will shop at budget supermarkets and 46 per cent will buy own-brand products.

Over half (56 per cent) intend to reduce discretionary spending, with clothes/accessories (48 per cent) and restaurant meals (47 per cent) emerging as the top cutbacks, which comes as non-essential spending saw its greatest decline since February 2021 in December, down -1.3 per cent.

Spending on entertainment was flat in the month, at 1.0 per cent, however digital content & subscriptions saw growth of 7.8 per cent, helped by follow ups to popular streaming series such as Stranger Things and Emily in Paris, as viewers sheltered from the cold.

Overall retail spending saw its greatest year-on-year decline since November 2024, down -1.9 per cent. Both garden centres (2.5 per cent) and food & drink specialist stores (2.9 per cent) bucked the trend however, continuing their strong performance through to the end of 2025.

For those with a financial resolution, the most popular goals include saving more each month (47 per cent), sticking to a budget (39 per cent) and spending less on eating and drinking out (30 per cent). Those with a health resolution listed drinking more water (52 per cent), swapping processed for whole foods (45 per cent) and trying to improve their sleep (45 per cent) among their top goals.

Karen Johnson, Head of Retail at Barclays, said:
“Despite there being encouraging signs that consumer confidence is recovering, shoppers will undoubtedly pay increasing attention to value for money in 2026, as many look to loyalty schemes and budget supermarkets. Meanwhile the New Year has brought with it a renewed focus on both financial and physical wellbeing, which will result in more considered and conscientious spending. Wellness, beauty and fitness will all benefit from this shift in priorities in 2026 and beyond.”

Jack Meaning, Chief UK Economist at Barclays said:
“These numbers suggest 2025 ended with a whimper, following the slowdown we saw define last year. However, we expect inflation to ease significantly in the first half of 2026, which, alongside a further easing of interest rates, should provide consumers with respite, unlocking real spending power. If the tentative signs of improving confidence can last beyond the New Year, then UK activity could strengthen as the year goes on.”

Read More:

Growth in consumer card spending decreased –1.7 per cent year-on-year in December, a further decline from November (-1.1 per cent) and considerably less than the latest CPIH inflation rate of 3.5 per cent. However, Pub spending returned to growth in December, up 1.9 per cent, after three consecuti...

12/01/2026

Hospitality Set For 2,076 Closures, Without Sector-Wide Business Rates Solution

Over 2,000 hospitality venues could close their doors during 20216 according to new modelling from sector body UKHospitality.

The analysis reveals that six hospitality venues could close every day throughout this year, with the scale of potential closures and forecasts revealing that 963 restaurants, 574 hotels and 540 pubs would be set to close if the Government doesn’t introduce a hospitality-wide solution to avert significant business rates increases in April.

Currently, the average hotel will see their business rates increase by £28,900 next year and by £205,200 in total over the next three years – an increase of 115%. The average pub will see their rates increase 15% next year – an extra £1,400 – and by 76% over the next three years – an increase of £12,900.

UKHospitality is calling for the Government to increase the business rates discount for hospitality properties from 5p to 20p, the maximum permitted in law.

It said this was crucial to the Government delivering its manifesto commitment to level the playing field between the high street and online giants.

Kate Nicholls, Chair of UKHospitality, said:
“Staggering increases to business rates will affect the entire hospitality sector and without a hospitality-wide solution, we will see significant business closures.

“Thousands of venues, particularly neighbourhood restaurants and local hotels, will be forced to close for good as a result of the significant rates rises they’re facing.

“This is yet another blow to a hospitality sector that bears the highest tax burden in the economy, and has already been disproportionately burdened by increases to NICs, wages, energy and other inputs.

“Hospitality is one of the nation’s biggest employers and has an incredible potential to grow and create jobs, but the money coming in the front door is simply not enough to offset the rocketing costs of doing business. All of this undermines the Government’s objectives to grow the economy and help more people back into work.

“We need a hospitality-wide solution that averts damaging business rates hikes in April. The Government needs to implement the maximum possible 20p discount to the multiplier for all hospitality properties.”

Read More:

Over 2,000 hospitality venues could close their doors during 20216 according to new modelling from sector body UKHospitality. The analysis reveals that six hospitality venues could close every day throughout this year, with the scale of potential closures and forecasts revealing that 963 restaurants...

12/01/2026

BII Licensee Of The Year Award Launches For 2026

The BII HAS announced that entries are now open for the 2026 BII Licensee of the Year Award (LOYA).

Returning this January, the competition is open to members and non-members of the BII alike, whether they are managers, lessees, tenants or free traders, with entrants from all areas of the industry.

LOYA is renowned in the industry as the toughest competition of its kind, with a rigorous four month judging process, culminating in the crowning of the winner at the prestigious BII Summer Event on Tuesday 16th June 2026. Every stage of the competition gives entrants an opportunity to evaluate their business, using the free mystery customer visits and feedback from the expert judging team of industry professionals.

Licensees can either nominate themselves or be nominated by colleagues, customers or suppliers on the BII website here. Entrants must have been operating their business for a minimum of 2 years, hold a Personal Licence and have a food hygiene rating of 4 or 5 at their venue, or a Pass in Scotland.

On the 13th January, 2026 at 10am, BII’s Hannah Solomons will be hosting a process webinar detailing all the steps surrounding the competition. Participants will be able to find out how to make their application stand out as well as ask questions to the BII team and our 2025 winners. You can find the webinar here.

The 2025 winners, Mike Dove and Tommy Higgs of the Three Horseshoes in Witney, have used their voices to champion the pub sector on a national stage. Passionate advocates for the sector and the competition, they will be supporting Hannah in the webinar, sharing their experience of the last 6 months as champions.

Speaking about winning in 2025, Mike and Tommy commented:
“Winning LOYA 2025 was a very proud moment for the team and recognition that we actually have a clue what we are doing. Being invited to numerous events and speaking in front of some industry leaders is a very humbling feeling and for that we are most grateful. If the opportunity arises for anyone to get involved in LOYA, do it, you won’t regret it.”

Steven Alton, CEO of the BII:
“Licensee of the Year celebrates the very best talent in our sector, with leading industry experts and operators at the heart of the judging process, giving entrants valuable feedback at every stage of the journey.

“Every element of the Licensee of the Year Award reflects the adaptability, innovation and resilience that defines our outstanding pubs and licensees today. Despite the huge challenges they are facing in terms of rising costs and overheads, they are evolving their pub business models, embracing new opportunities, and investing in their teams, all whilst supporting local communities.

“The entire team is excited to once again connect with the industry’s most inspiring licensees, discover the standout venues shaping the future of the sector, and celebrate the people driving excellence into 2026 and beyond. Best of luck to all entrants!”

Read More:

The BII HAS announced that entries are now open for the 2026 BII Licensee of the Year Award (LOYA). Returning this January, the competition is open to members and non-members of the BII alike, whether they are managers, lessees, tenants or free traders, with entrants from all areas of the industry.....

12/01/2026

Hospitality Sector Unites In Call For 40% Business Rates Support

Hospitality trade groups have united in a call for a reduction in business rates ahead of next week’s Scottish budget, highlighting the huge disparity in rates bills for pubs north of the border over the last three years.

In a joint Statement from the Scottish Beer & Pub Association, Scottish Licensed Trade Association, Scottish Hospitality Group, Night-Time Industries Association Scotland, and UKHospitality Scotland, they said support is vital in protecting jobs and ensuring investment.

They have pointed to the analysis of figures which show that hospitality businesses in Scotland have paid between 112% and 176% more in rates than those rated the exact same in England, due to the disparity in support from government over the last three years.

The sector is facing another double-whammy with the potential loss of the 40% discount for some businesses and astronomical increases in bills due to the recent revaluation, on top of the years of financial disparity between them and businesses in England. As a result, they are asking for continuation of the 40% relief on businesses, alongside the removal of the £51k cap.

Joint Statement: “As representatives of Scotland’s hospitality and night-time economy, we are united in calling on the Scottish Government to deliver meaningful non-domestic rates (NDR) support in next week’s Budget. This has to be continuation and extension of the 40% for hospitality businesses and a removal of the £51k cap, alongside transitional relief for those hit by the recent revaluation.

“The Scottish Government has already rightly acknowledged that there is a fundamental issue with how the hospitality sector is rated, as evidenced by the ongoing review. Previous budgets have also recognised this challenge and provided targeted relief to help businesses cope, but they have been significantly less generous than those received by the same businesses in England – with some premises paying 176% more in Scotland over the last three years. The recent revaluation has compounded the problem, with many premises facing unjustifiable and disproportionate increases in their rateable values.

“These hikes come at a time when businesses are still grappling with rising costs and fragile consumer confidence. Without intervention, the impact will be severe—threatening jobs, investment, and the vibrancy of Scotland’s towns and cities.

“We urge the Scottish Government to act decisively by introducing a robust package of NDR support in the upcoming Budget, including transitional relief. This is essential to safeguard the future of Scotland’s hospitality sector while the review continues.”

Read More:

Hospitality trade groups have united in a call for a reduction in business rates ahead of next week’s Scottish budget, highlighting the huge disparity in rates bills for pubs north of the border over the last three years. In a joint Statement from the Scottish Beer & Pub Association, Scottish Lice...

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