Andrew Stones

Highly recommend listening to this episode of High Performance for any business leaders, managers or entrepreneurs who are growing a business. New lessons alongside reminders of how to lead with inspiration, compassion, fairness and ultimately success. #highperformancepodcast

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Morrisons suffers £22m loss amid debt pressures and sluggish sales growth https://lnkd.in/dP6v83w7 Retail’s biggest challenge is its inability to truly connect with customers. It operates in a world dominated by discount-driven consumers with minimal loyalty, as interactions are entirely transactional. Competing solely on price is a losing game unless you can create something that resonates emotionally. I hope the hospitality industry doesn’t follow this path of transactional experiences. Emotions are conveyed through food, drink, and service, making authentic connections essential for long-term success. Summary of article -Morrisons reported a fresh £22m loss for the latest quarter, despite narrowing from a £39m loss in the same period last year. - The loss was primarily due to a £110m debt finance bill, reflecting the impact of inflated debt costs and sluggish sales growth. - The losses account for Morrisons' supermarkets, convenience stores, and wholesale manufacturing, excluding revenue from the £2.6bn sale of its petrol forecourts in April. - Total debt fell to £4bn at the end of July, down from a peak of £6.2bn, partly due to a £331m ground lease sale on 76 supermarkets. - Rami Baitiéh, Morrisons’ CEO since November, is implementing a turnaround plan focused on sales growth and debt reduction, including price-matching against Aldi and Lidl. - Morrisons holds 8.5% of the grocery market, behind Aldi’s 9.9%, after being overtaken by the discounter in 2022. - Baitiéh is engaging more directly with customers and reviewing the rollout of self-checkouts, admitting it went “a bit too far.” - Sales growth for the latest 13-week period was 2.9% like-for-like, down from 4.1% in the previous period. - To improve availability and sales, Morrisons has deployed AI cameras to monitor empty shelves, enhancing in-day replenishment times and customer satisfaction.

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A case study to be read by anyone In big, medium and small businesses and even, or especially, public sector institutions. This is the real power of creating and sustaining a healthy management ethos designed to engage all in constant improvement. A real example of behaviours matching values. Hugely impressive and inspiring.

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Great to see the huge enthusiasm for the future of our 𝐩𝐮𝐛 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 at the recent Propel Excellence in Pub & Bar Retailing Conference 2024 and that ongoing diversity will be at the heart of it ❤️ This includes the diversity of the continually evolving customer base: 💬 "I think pubs will be thriving as they’ll have a far more diverse set of customers in the pubs ... I’m excited about that and think it’s great for the sector." 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧-𝐁𝐞𝐞𝐫 from 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐞 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 💬 "The future is positive ... There will be more ageless and classless pubs, that’s where I see the big change being, and I think we’re seeing that already.” 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐨𝐧 from 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩. Plus the ongoing diversity of pub operators, offers and experiences: 💬 "I hope there isn’t too much more consolidation as part of the joy of the British pub industry is it is still relatively fragmented and there are an awful lot of good independent pubs and smaller medium sized businesses that manage to thrive. Although the pub will have to continue modernising, the traditional aspects where there’s great company and great refreshment must stay at the heart forever." 𝐋𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐧 At Keane we LOVE working in the pub sector creating concepts, brands and experiences (including for Greene King and City Pub Group) that we hope have played a small part in some of this evolution in recent years. And long may it continue... power to the pub! 🍺✊ #pubs #hospitality #diversity #trends #greatbritishpub

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Over 200 of the UK’s biggest hospitality businesses signed a letter to the Chancellor yesterday warning that the additional tax bill will force some businesses into liquidation and that others will have to drastically reduce their headcount and slash investment in order to meet the additional costs imposed by Labour’s first Budget. More than 200 of the UK’s largest hospitality business have signed an open letter to the Chancellor to reconsider increases to national insurance contributions and the minimum wage announced in the recent Budget. What are your thoughts? Do you agree with Darren Jones that “Bigger businesses are more able to burden some of the contributions we need to make to the state”? https://lnkd.in/eDHzFAXE

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What happens when small businesses reach out to wrap their arms around one another? Competition? No. Collaboration? Absolutely. First off, Lancaster is a fantastic place to live and visit—if you've not been (or it's been a while), it's time to come and see us. It's full-to-bursting with lovely people who are genuinely committed to increasing a sense of community and making it a wonderful corner of the world to spend time in, whether you're here permanently or just passing through. That sense of community extends right into the heart of the small businesses of this area, who are always working their socks off to look after their customers and support their neighbours. So it was fantastic to attend the inaugural 'Indivision' meeting of small local businesses who want to not only picture the future of the area but also get active about achieving that vision. It was heart-wrenching in parts to hear about all the challenges that business owners are facing, some still holding on, some having fallen. But it was also heart-warming to see so many turn up with sleeves rolled up, open minds, and with a massive 'let's find solutions' attitude. You only need to look at the pic I quickly snapped to see just some of the smiling faces and genuine warmth flowing through the room. I am so thankful to be part of Indivision. The meeting was just the first step, but it's an important one. We're not about problems. We're about solutions. Times are so hard for small businesses, so a massive shout-out to Totally Local Lancaster for rallying everyone together so we can talk openly about our challenges and our wins, providing the opportunity to resonate with what's being said so we don't feel alone, and a space where we can come together to set direction and take control over our businesses futures. Absolute legends. #lancaster #businesswoman #NetworkingOpportunity #collaborative #lancasteruk #EntrepreneurialJourney

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How long will it take to sell your business? This article from Hornblower will answer this burning question and help make the journey smoother: 🔍 Is it easy to sell a business? The ease of sale depends on various factors like business preparedness, market conditions, valuation, and your business broker's quality. Learn how to enhance these aspects for a smoother process. 🕰️ How quickly can you sell a business? Get insights into the time it takes to sell a business—typically, 70-80% sell within 12 months, with 30% completing in just 6 months. Discover the sector dynamics influencing the speed of business sales. 💰 How do you know how much to sell your business for? Unravel the complexities of business valuation. Prospective buyers consider location, revenue, contracts, management, and your role in the business. Learn how to position your business for an attractive deal. 🏃‍♂️ Which buyers act quickly? Explore the types of buyers that facilitate a smooth sale process. Cash-reserved buyers are key for efficiency, while others relying on bank loans or institutional processes may take more time. 📊 Availability of information Discover the pivotal role of up-to-date management information in a smooth sale. Having clear, detailed information readily available builds buyer confidence and streamlines due diligence. ⏳ Take time to find the right buyer – but keep the momentum Finding the right buyer is crucial for the best deal, but maintaining momentum is equally important. Learn how experienced business brokers can guide you through this delicate balance, ensuring a successful sale. #BusinessSale #Entrepreneurship #ExitStrategy

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He arrived flushed, but refreshed. His last visit to Leeds was 15 years ago. It didn't matter, he jumped off the train at city centre and walked to Shine. Yes, he walked to Shine! It only took him 25 mins. He was a candidate for our recently open Sales and Events Manager position. That's how close we are. A 25 minute walk from the station. She drove. All the way from Park Square for a meeting with Dawn O'Keefe at Shine. An investor interested in the women entrepreneurs of SheCanShine. That's how far away we are. Plenty of parking in our private car park and along adjacent streets. We're your slightly out-of-town place that's really close, but miles away when it comes to amenities. Parking, private showers, secure bike shed, a bus stop out front, and that thing you really don't get in city centre buildings -- bucket loads of natural light beaming through our massive windows into the plant filled Atrium. If you're somebody looking for a different kind of office space with its own lovely cafe run by an accomplished artist and barista extraordinaire (Freya), come check us out. We're Shine, you'll sparkle. 😁 Q1 office Rentals are up 120% on Q4 2023. Of note, this comment at end of the article: Richard Dunn, a partner with Sanderson Weatherall, said: “The subdued out-of-town market activity reflects the *lack of superior quality office* stock now available. [Should add, ..."except the gorgeous Shine!"] “Supply remains a pressing issue in both markets and with little new construction expected in 2024 the choice of new or improved space for occupiers looks unlikely to change until 2026. https://lnkd.in/eDckZrqq Leeds city centre office take-up more than doubled in quarter one 2024 | TheBusinessDesk.com Includes 12 deals over 5,000 sq ft completed, compared to seven at the close of last year. Colin Glass OBE

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To all Business leaders if you didn’t think you had to do something different before yesterdays budget. You should be now. Why don’t you give Luke McCluskey or Shaun Molloy a DM to see how Circle Consultancy can help you unlock the savings in your business.

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I’m a very small business owner. A business which isn’t even trading yet might I add. I half listened to Rachel Reeves and the Labour government on the delivery of yesterday’s budget. I read some notes from various accountancy firms this morning and I’ve come to following conclusion: SOD IT. What will be will be (for now). What needs to be paid will be paid. What taxes fall on my doorstep is the law of the land and I’m sure we’ll stay legal… What I do know is this, at Senza Fondo UK: - We’re going to create a restaurant that is fun & quality. Wall to wall soaked in love, laughter, live music & lasagna - We’re going to create a restaurant within a community that gives back to that community and puts that community first - We’re going to create a restaurant that looks after its team, its guests, its suppliers & its stakeholders - We’re going to create a restaurant that strives every day to serve up the UKs best lasagna, the best service and the best atmosphere - We’re going to create a restaurant that creates and collaborates and is a beacon of positivity If we do all those things well and I promise every day we will try to the best of our ability, then who cares about politics and the budget? Who cares about dick swinging on Downing St? I don’t. If we do the above things well, we’ll be the best we can be and I’ll be proud of what we’ve built. For richer for poorer. Any chefs, restaurants, music & fashion brands who fancy having a conversation around collaboration then let’s chat. Bring the fun back to business. Simply the béchamel x

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The continued rise in foodbank use shows how thin our welfare 'safety net' has become. So many fall through now. This is policy by design - it is an intentional strategy of a Government that considers welfare spending an 'undesirable cost' and always at the mercy of 'scroungers'. But it sits badly with the same Government's continued enthusiasm for giving out huge tax reliefs to high-income individuals, like non-doms, who actually cost the tax payer far more. The worst scroungers in this country wear pin-striped suits and will never need to go near a foodbank. We should fund welfare properly, so it provides a dignified living to those who need our help, and reform our taxes so that those on high incomes pay their way.

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Flex Operator Workshop: Is your brand differentiation powerful enough for a commoditised market? Don't let your brand get left behind! Announcing Brave Corporation Ltd.'s latest event for flex & coworking operators... Join us 23 July Operator Workshop: Is your brand differentiation powerful enough for a commoditised market? Led by Keke Patissier, CEO of Koho.ai, with a 20 year track record consulting with SMEs and global companies to help them drive top line performance. WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND? 1) You want to understand how to differentiate your brand in a commoditised flex space market 2) You like diving deep into what drives customer choices in the flexible workspace sector 3) You have a desire to learn how to leverage operational excellence, customer intimacy, and product leadership to stand out 4) You want to understand how aligning your company culture and processes to your brand values is transformative for revenue Tap below for further details & registration: https://lnkd.in/eCJxZrKx

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The Future of Public Sector Catering report has been praised by Catherine Hinchcliff, head of corporate marketing & insight at Bidfood UK, who described it as a ‘truly invaluable resource’. The Future of Public Sector Catering report offers a comprehensive analysis of the industry, providing insights into market trends, economic and political forecasts, changing customer behaviour and future developments over the next five years. Hinchcliff said: “The Public Sector Catering report is a truly invaluable document which brilliantly sums up the size and significance of, as well as the challenges facing this under-researched part of the out of home market. “It’s the most comprehensive report I’ve seen for many years that covers public sector catering, and a must-have read for any operators or suppliers who support its essential work.” Published by Public Sector Catering and compiled in collaboration with catering and hospitality specialist Simon Stenning, founder of FutureFoodservice, it delivers the market-defining data that senior leaders and managers need - whether you're an operator, supplier, opinion-former or influencer. Find out more https://lnkd.in/em7By4DQ or contact me to order your your copy. #Research #PublicSector #PublicSectorCatering #PublicFood

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🎄 It’s that time of the year where people are getting tired, and are looking forward to ‘downing tools’, switching on their OOH messages and looking forward to unwinding with friends and family … 😂 … until they have had enough of it all and are looking forward to coming back to work again! 🗓️ I’m feeling tired myself, and so I took a day out of the calendar yesterday with ‘catching up with myself’ and ‘getting organised’ as the only agenda items ⚙️ This, for me, meant finding a place where that could afford me the time and space to concentrate, to switch gears, and allow some calm to descend [on my neurodiverse mind] ⌛ At times like this, I always find myself back in hospitality, in an unbranded [and usually] independent proposition where I am [relatively] unknown 🍽️ Places with an uncomplicated ordering process, un-faffy loyalty schemes, a strong focus on product quality and genuine customer-read service is in play 🪑 Interestingly, these businesses are usually the busiest businesses in their locale, serving up not just hospitality at its best, but also relevance and value for money to their customers. Getting a seat can be a hard task! 📻 I heard on the radio recently that, with the current cost of living [and future increasing costs] customer trends going into 2025 [led by the Gen Z population]  will seek out genuine and authentic experiences/occasions that offer relevance and value, and shun homogeneous brands that seemingly struggle to meet these expectations 🕙 Time will tell if this trend will gather momentum in 2025 ... ❓ Where do you gravitate to in your downtime, and why? #restaurants #qsr #fastcasual #casualdinning #granandgo #OpsEx #operations #operationsdirector #projectmanagement #operationsexcellence #franchiseperformancedirector #consultancy #freelance 👋 I'm Jay, and I am a Hospitality Operations Specialist DM me at Heathcote Operations or make an enquiry through https://lnkd.in/enpmz7x8 to arrange a meeting and a chat [no obligation], and to enjoy a coffee together ☕️ #opentowork

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Promotional gifts can be rubbish in two ways. 1. Bad product/brand alignment. 2. Boring. First; the pen, cap, tote bag or water bottle you choose should be decent, desirable, useful (WILL be used) and authentically sustainable (look close. They fib) – and brand aligned. Brand aligned mean is if you’re Land Rover, that Thermos flask had better be tough. If you’re Dyson, that mechanical pencil had better be beautifully engineered. If you’re a training company dedicated to the permanence of your work, that tote bag had better last a long, long time. Second, don’t just put your logo on. If you run a brand famous for the creation of conspicuous clothing, write this above your logo on your tote bag: “Hey! Are you looking at me? Why not?” Or if you’re a Comedy Club or a cool, swaggering clothing brand, write this above your logo on your tote bag: “For the avoidance of doubt. I’m not laughing WITH you.” Or if you’re a gardener at Alnwick Garden, write this on your teeshirts, across your shoulder blades, encouraging visitors to chat with you about the plants: “Talk dirt to me.” Promotional gifts can be rubbish in two ways. 1. Bad product/brand alignment. 2. Boring. Avoid both.

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The UK hospitality sector is staring down a perfect storm of rising costs and taxes, with no clear support from the Government in sight. Energy bills are surging, employer National Insurance contributions are up, and proposed hikes in business rates and alcohol duties are piling on pressure. For an industry already hit hard by the pandemic and Brexit, these challenges are pushing many businesses to the brink. Small, independent pubs, restaurants, and cafes—the heart of British hospitality—are especially vulnerable. Unlike large chains, they can’t easily absorb soaring expenses, forcing many to cut jobs, reduce hours, or shut down entirely. The ripple effects threaten local economies and communities, as well as the industry’s vital role in UK culture. Frustration is mounting as other countries introduce targeted relief measures like VAT cuts and energy subsidies, while the UK Government remains silent. This lack of action adds uncertainty to an already dire situation. Business owners need clarity and immediate help, such as temporary tax relief, business rate freezes/ discounts, or targeted energy grants, to survive. The stakes couldn’t be higher. Without urgent support, the UK risks losing not just jobs and revenue, but the unique vibrancy and character of its hospitality sector. It’s time for the Government to step up and ensure this vital industry weathers the storm.

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If you could turn a hobby into a business, what would you choose? 🤔 In this very special episode of ‘all about business’, our Chairman and CEO James Reed CBE is joined by his wife Nicola Arkell Reed, Founder of the successful drinks company, Beeble | B Corp. Nicola shares how she turned her husband’s birthday gift into a thriving business, the ups and downs of bootstrapping a company with her daughter’s friend as well as some rather disturbing facts about her bee colony 🐝 Link to the podcast is in the comments! 🔗 🎧  #podcast #AllAboutBusiness #JamesReed #Business #Beeble

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So how does it work? How does your message or logo get onto a biscuit? It's super easy! 1️⃣ You browse collections/occasions in our web shop and check out there 2️⃣ If you can't find what you need, email enquiries@thebiskery.com 3️⃣ In most cases we ask you for: ❓order volume ❓biscuit message or logo (as PNG or JPG) ❓delivery date ❓delivery address 4️⃣ You provide us with the info and we send you a quote. 5️⃣ You accept and we get baking. 6️⃣ Depending on the order volume, your totally bespoke biscuit order arrives at any UK address within as little as 2-3 days. It's that simple. We can turn most ideas into a biscuit. The world is your oyster. Get in touch to challenge us! Today is Gratitudesday, the day we give away a limited amount of free jam Thank You biscuits. You could be cheeky and send one to yourself to try before you buy. Just saying. We would never know. Look forward to baking for you! #howitworks #process #personalisation

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