Restaurants and casual dining: leading the economy out of recession


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t has been a tough few years for the UK economy but there’s little doubt that things are finally on the up. Restaurants and the casual dining market in par- ticular have been and continue to be a bright spot. Eating out, it seems, is some-


thing the UK population can no longer do without. The picture is not uniform, of course. There are parts of the country and certain


segments of the market that are faring better than others. That’s why we decided it would be a good time to take stock and ask some ques-


tions about where things stand, and where the sector goes from here. In this, our Restaurant and Casual Dining Insight Report, we have done exactly


that. Brought to you by the editorial team at The Caterer, in association with EY, the report contains exclusive research and analysis of the restaurant and casual dining market, looking back over the past 12 months as well as forward to the coming years. Not only do we look at the performance of various market segments but also what emerging trends and the prevailing economic conditions for the coming years might mean for the restaurant business. We also take a look at some of the emerging brands that we are likely to see more


of in the future, as well as how the managed pub industry is evolving. EY’s involvement has been key to making this report possible and I am grate-


ful to them for their input and support throughout the process. I hope it will prove to be useful information for restaurant and casual dining operators, owners and investors across the country, as they help this exciting, vibrant and innovative sector continue to grow. Neil Gerrard Restaurants Editor The Caterer


Contents


3 4 8


10 11


12 15 16 18 20 23


Welcome message from EY State of the nation


The economic outlook New rules of engagement Managed pubs


10 businesses to watch London property: what now?


The Caterer Interview: Eric Bellquist The view in the US The way ahead Contacts


Restaurant Insight Report | September 2014


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www.thecaterer.com


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