Restaurant Update - December 2022

RESTAURANT

UPDATE

The latest news, products and services from the restaurant industry, for the restaurant industry

DECember 2022

Moda, where outdoor furniture really means business.

Unlocking the potential of your outdoor space can be a seriously good business move. Whether you need a place to close deals with clients, a second meeting room or a nineteenth hole par excellence, taking your work outside offers huge attractions. And as the UK’s leading luxury outdoor furniture brand, Moda is ideally placed to help turn your vision into reality.

Having started out as a family-run company in 2014, Moda has quickly established a reputation for innovative furniture solutions with exceptional customer service. This has led to a growing demand for their services from an increasingly diverse client base, as a greater variety of commercial sectors have looked to transform their outdoor spaces.

A tailored approach

With a dedicated Commercial team, Moda’s clients can choose from a vast collection of furniture sets to meet all business requirements. Expert account managers are on hand to offer a tailored approach, managing site visits and sampling to guide you through the process of your purchase.

With Moda’s market-leading 3d rendering service, designs can be modelled into businesses’ properties and space, providing visual impressions and assisting with further planning and decision-making.

Uniquely modular, uniquely Moda

Your outdoor space can change from one day to the next, which is where Moda’s flexible modular systems really come into their own. All of their furniture ranges have a number of modular configurations that can be customised - move them around your business areas, expand your collection, split them up or put them together to complement your changing commercial requirements.

It creates a compelling fusion of aesthetics and adaptability.

The choice is almost limitless, with a host of options of sofa combinations, not to mention dining ranges which incorporate unique features such as drinks coolers and fire pit inserts.

Smart furniture to drive businesses forward

With their all-weather materials and uncompromising build quality, Moda furniture collections are meticulously engineered to withstand the demands of the modern workplace - and the great British weather. Every item

of luxury outdoor furniture is designed exclusively in-house. This allows Moda to offer a perfect balance of both style and substance that can be enjoyed all year round.

What’s more, Moda’s market leading three-year commercial guarantee offers commercial clients peace of mind and their aftercare policy and maintenance packages reinforces their commitment to client satisfaction.

Expert delivery and installation

Moda is well placed to meet the demands of the commercial market with stock available for timely delivery via their impressive fleet of 150 in-house vehicles. This enables Moda to exceed client expectations through fast delivery, meticulous installation and aftercare. Their team of fully-trained engineers are available to you at no extra cost, covering unpacking, furniture placement and the removal of all packaging for recycling.

Take the first step to maximising the use of your outdoor space.

Talk to one of Moda’s Commercial Business Development Managers. Tel: 033 3363 7015 or email: commercial@modafurnishings.co.uk modafurnishings.co.uk/commercial

Hairy Biker Si King set to open first

Si King, one half of the much-loved cooking duo ‘The Hairy Bikers’, has announced he will open his first-ever restaurant in a Grade II-listed former stable in Sunderland. The restaurant, set to open in the summer of next year, will feature flavours from all over the world and have space for pop-ups from independent producers.

Hairy Bikers Si King and Dave Myers first met on the set of a television drama in 1995 and have been cooking together ever since. They have written 26 cookbooks, selling over six million copies worldwide. This, however, will be the first restaurant for either of these national treasures.

On the choice of location, King told ITV, ‘Sunderland is a transforming city, and one with great provenance when it comes to local produce. It’s a city by the sea, with access to fresh fish and seafood, plenty of allotments for homegrown

fruit and veg, and a spirit of innovation that really appeals to me as a creative person.’

Planning permission for the restaurant was granted in May of this year, as part of a larger initiative striving to rejuvenate Sunderland’s waterfront.

King went on to say, ‘I think Sunderland is crying out for venues like The Stables that mean people do not need to venture outside of the city to enjoy good quality food in a stunning setting.’

‘The fact that the team behind it are Sunderland based, and want the absolute best for the city, is what makes this such a special development and one I am thrilled to be joining.’

‘What will be absolutely vital is that people vote with their feet, and patronise the brilliant places being developed for them.’

The restaurant will be part of the exciting Sheepfolds riverside development

restaurant next year

The Bacchanalia were Roman festivals held to honour Bacchus, the Greco-Roman god of wine, freedom, intoxication and ecstasy, so, no prizes for guessing what the general theme of the restaurant will be. Caring has tasked friends Damien Hirst and designer Martin Brudnizki with the restaurant styling, which will include ‘Sistine Chapel-style frescoes on the ceiling’ and four enormous Hirst sculptures, including one of ‘winged lovers embracing on a unicorn’.

The Greek and Italian menu has been devised by Athinagoras Kostakos - previously chef patron at Greek restaurant Meraki. There’s a focus - as is often the case in Caring restaurants - on

lux ingredients. Front and centre on the menu you’ll find caviar (a choice of Oscietra, Beluga or premium Baerii) as well as Fine de Claire oysters with pepper mignonette. A selection of salads follows, as well as antipasti, pasta dishes, mains, and sides. Fish and seafood features heavily, with dishes like linguine vongole, grilled turbot with lemon sabayon, and baby squid with black garlic aioli.

Bacchanalia will also have an exclusive, members-only area, as well as a an al fresco terrace, private dining room and a separate bar - called ‘The Midas Bar’ - made entirely of rock crystal.

Bacchanalia

The latest addition to Richard Caring’s glitzy Caprice Holdings empire could hardly have picked a more glamorous spot: an old Porsche showroom on the corner of Berkeley Square - one of the most desirable addresses in the capital. With Sexy Fish, Scott’s, Annabel’s, Brasserie of Light, and 34 Mayfair all just a short walk away, the heart of Mayfair is also the heart of Caring country these days, and Bacchanalia promises to be Caprice Holdings’ most decadent, ostentatious restaurant yet.

GIVE THE ULTIMATE GIFT OF RELAXATION THIS CHRISTMAS

With the continued stresses and distractions that 2022 has provided, many of us are looking for ways in which to unwind & relax as we get closer to the festive period. With Spabreaks.com’s range of gift ideas, it is the perfect time to treat someone with the relaxation and wellbeing benefits of spa.

Be it an overnight spa break, a spa day or a gift voucher that allows your loved one the flexibility of choosing where and when to get away, there is something for everybody and all budgets with Spabreaks.com’s gift options.

Spabreaks.com offers two types of gift voucher, which can be redeemed at over 450 spas across the UK:

GIFT PACKAGES

These packages give you the opportunity to tailor your gift to include all the specifics: the spa, the treatments, and whether you have lunch, afternoon tea or stay for dinner. You choose the spa and experience; they choose when to use it.

MONETARY VOUCHERS

A sum of money, chosen by you, which can be used towards any of Spabreaks.com’s experiences, offering complete flexibility and give your recipient the freedom to choose how they spend it. Monetary vouchers are available from just £30.

Vouchers are easily bookable online and offer 12-month validity, so voucher holders can choose when they want to enjoy their gift - ensuring they get to indulge in their spa experience at a time that suits them. In a bid to help spread the cost of Christmas for customers this year, all vouchers bought from the 24th October will have an extended validity period that will run through until the 24th December 2023.

Seeking to tailor the spa experience perfectly to each person on your list? Spabreaks.com has a range of gift packages at incredible venues across the country such as:

Doubletree by Hilton Chester Hotel

Enjoy a one-night bed and breakfast stay at this manor house hotel set in 12 acres of landscaped grounds. With space in abundance, groups will love the opportunities for dining and social time, but don’t forget to factor in time at the luxury Club and Spa. Its 14 treatment rooms mean it has ample space for larger groups, as well as a pool, steam room and rasul, which are fun to enjoy with family and friends. After a restorative massage or facial, make the most of the poolside loungers before planning how to enjoy yourself next. Offer includes a three-course dinner in the Garden Room & Terrace from a Table D’hôte Menu and 4 hours use of the spa facilities. From £88.50pp. More info here

Rena Spa at Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel

With Tower Bridge and the Tower of London on your doorstep, there’s plenty to keep you busy with sightseeing, however when you’re ready to indulge in some serious relaxation, Rena Spa is an oasis of calm. Elegant facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, next to which you’ll find a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna to spend time relaxing in. The spa is all about pampering, so you can expect to find an indulgent treatment menu to choose a range of beauty and holistic therapies from. Offer includes one-night bed and breakfast stay, a choice of 1 x 25-minute treatment, a bottle of Prosecco on arrival and 2 hours use of the facilities. From £103.50pp. More info here

Shangri-La,

The Shard

Dip your toes in the highest sky pool in Europe with a mid-week staycation in the sky. Providing you with an unparalleled view of the city from a Deluxe City View Room, your day begins with a buffet breakfast for two in TĪNG restaurant. Make the most of your getaway with access to the hotel’s legendary infinity sky pool, as well as relaxing in the sauna or working out in the gym, all located on the hotel’s 52nd floor and open until 6pm. Treat yourself by adding a treatment to your stay, either in the spa or in your room for extra comfort. You can also add dinner and drinks to your stay at one of the hotel’s array of restaurants and bars. Whether you fancy a tipple in Europe’s highest hotel bar, GŎNG, tucking into Asian cuisine with classic British gastronomy at TĪNG, or enjoying a local craft beer or Aperol Spritz at Bar 31, there’s something for every palate. From £465pp. More info here

If you’re unsure of the recipient’s favorite spa, or what they might enjoy, book safely in the knowledge that the equivalent monetary value of the voucher can be used towards an alternative experience of their choice.

With all gifts, Spabreaks.com offers a range of optional gift sets to accompany the voucher, from aromatic candles to skincare sets – all of which will allow recipients to enjoy a spot of at home relaxation as they eagerly await their upcoming spa experience.

With a range of gifting options and an array of wonderful spas across the UK, giving the relaxing gift of spa is easy this Christmas with Spabreaks.com. For more information or to book visit www.spabreaks.com or call 0800 043 6600.

EYE CATCHING DINING FURNITURE

Wobbly tables can be a thing of the past thanks to the patented StableTable technology.

StableTable is a unique patented fully automated solution which is hidden with the pillar of the table base allowing the legs to adjust to uneven surfaces.

Available for both indoor and outdoor use in a range of heights, shapes and sizes. Can be supplied as base only or complete with a stylish OnTop 12mm Compact Laminate top.

Addison

Clipsham

Stowmarket

Wilby

Bohemia

Brandon

Sip Champagnes

The historic dominance of the big wine houses and supermarket champagne has meant that Champagne choice has been very limited in the UK, with small producers unable to access high-end restaurants, bars, hotels and wine boutiques, which has meant consumers had little choice, until now…

Voted ‘Champagne & Sparkling Specialist Retailer of the Year’ in the 2022 Decanter Retailer Awards & ‘Specialist Online Retailer of the Year’ by The Drinks Business, Sip Champagnes is reinvigorating the grower Champagne market by introducing a raft of new names – available both direct to consumer and for retail and restaurant sales.

With a collection of over 50 exciting growers – many of them brand new to the UK market – and a range of more than 200 cuvées, there are Champagnes to suit all styles and budgets.

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• Need a memorable bottle for a special meal? With a client list that encompasses everything from local wine shops to Michelin-starred restaurants, Sip Champagnes can tailor packages to your specific requirements.

Sip Champagnes is the UK’s leading Grower Champagne specialist, with a focus on newly discovered and fully independent producers that can’t be found anywhere else.

Sip Champagnes founders Peter Crawford and Daniel Blatchford

WHAT’S TRENDING IN AMERICAN CRAFT BEER

The USA is widely credited with pioneering the American craft beer movement we see today and is perceived to be among the top brewing nations in the world. There are now 9,200+ breweries in the States, renowned for their innovation, creativity, brewing precision and high quality, full-flavoured beers.

As trend and style setters in the craft beer world, what starts over there often comes over here so below is a snapshop of what’s trending in American craft beer following a visit to the Great American Beer Festival held annually in Denver, Colorado and organised by the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade association for small and independent American craft brewers.

IPA

IPAs in their many iterations continue to dominate the American craft brewing scene with approximately one third of all sales. Well-made, high quality, classic IPAs featuring punchy, flavoursome American hops were highly prevalent as both brewers and drinkers alike sought a return to traditional flavours and styles. The latest trend is for Cold IPA, a heavily dry-hopped ale/lager hybrid made using bottom fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures to give a clean, crispness with hop intensity and supreme drinkability. Within the IPA category, Imperial IPAs are driving much of today’s growth and hazy/juicy IPAs were also popular but slightly less so than 2019 levels.

Lagers and Lighter Styles

Lighter and more approachable styles were much in evidence with a return to less palate-challenging and more easy-drinking beers. Lagers including Helles, Pilsner, Oktoberfest, Festbier, Marzen, Bocks and much more all featured heavily.

Low and No

Alcohol-free beers account for a small but rapidly growing sector of the American craft beer with .5% of the total market. This may seem small but compared to other sub-

sectors of craft beer it’s a big chunk. There were more examples of low and no alcohol beers than ever before with brewers showing high levels of ingenuity and imagination, eg. Athletic Brewing Co’s medal winning Lemon Radler.

Wood & Barrel-Aged Strong Beers

Pastry stouts were less of a thing this year but intense, high ABV, rare beers were much sought after eg. Firestone Walker Parabola, imperial stout aged in Bourbon barrels for a year and The Bruery’s Ivoire, Bourbon barrel-aged ale.

The UK is the largest export market in Europe and second biggest individual export market accounting for 8.4% of all exports. American craft beer is available from select national wholesalers or direct at Athletic Brewing or the Cascade Club

Lotte Peplow, Brewers Association American Craft Beer Ambassador for Europe, unearths the latest trends in the American craft beer world

Little Hotelier unveils the traveller trends set to transform UK’s accommodation industry

Analysing the survey data of 8,000+ travellers from 10 countries globally (including the UK), Little Hotelier has created the Changing Traveller Report: Small Accommo dation Edition, uncovering the evolving plans, behaviours and perspectives of today’s accommodation guest. From the report, there are five key trends for UK accom modation providers to be aware of in the year ahead.

Trend 1: Establishing a strong ‘billboard’ remains key to being booked online

In the survey data, it was found that 33% of travellers will begin their accommodation research on a search engine like Google, 21% will head straight to a specific OTA or travel website, and 10% will pore over social media to find inspiration, highlighting the need to establish a strong online presence from the outset.

Trend 2: Direct bookings and lasting relationships are there to be won

Booking directly with a property online is currently the second most popular reservation method for travellers globally, behind OTAs, highlighting an ongoing oppor tunity to secure increased profits. When on a property’s website, an easy and secure booking and payment meth od, content of the rooms and staff, and guest reviews are all top three considerations for at least 50% of travellers.

Trend 3: Travellers are craving unique accommodation experiences

When deciding whether they would consider returning to a property, the ‘little things’ that make an accommoda tion brand unique, for example the property’s scent, their artwork, or the restaurant’s music, are either “important” or “very important” to 66% of travellers.

Trend 4: Technology use is becoming more closely linked to booking success

Slow adopters of hotel tech will need to pick up the pace if they want to continue winning bookings consistently, with 64% of travellers saying their perception of a brand would be changed if they weren’t using technology effec tively (i.e if their website is slow or their payment process wasn’t secure).

Trend 5: Authenticity and service will always be king Travellers have made it clear that old-fashioned hospital ity still rules the day when it comes to onsite experience, and expectations are higher than ever. As automating the check-in experience becomes more common, 88% of travellers still prefer it when a property’s staff are on site when they arrive, while 61% now expect higher or much higher standards than pre-COVID when it comes to human-delivered services.

For Little Hotelier’s full report, click here

Pure vacuum

- the UK & Europe’s No 1 Brand

Over 15,000 machines sold worldwide annually

Jumbo 42 – UKs Bestselling machine!

Perfect fit for your everyday basic sporadic needs & firsttime packaging experiences. Right at home in High Street butchers, fishmongers, deli shops & cafés where the vacuum packer is only used occasionally - plug and play ready!

Boxer 52 – UKs biggest tabletop model!

2 x 410mm seal bars and 520mm of usable space between bars - Perfect for vacuum packing long & bulky products such as loins, legs, racks of ribs, XL sausages, whole or filleted fish or for customers looking to speed up their vacuum packing process - plug and play ready!

Boxer 42 ACS + H2O – Perfect commercial grade Tabletop machine!

This is the model that all chefs must have. Perfectly at home in the kitchens of Michelin Star chefs like Chef Graham Garrett from the West House in Biddenden, Kent & The Mosimann’s Private Dining Club in Belgravia, London.

Why Henkelman UK?

• We have over 25 years’ experience selling Henkelman vacuum packers.

• Popular Henkelman vacuum packer models are held in stock for next day despatch and can be delivered within 24-48 hours to the UK mainland.

• Tabletop models like the Jumbo 42 – The UKs bestselling model and Boxer 52 – The UKs biggest tabletop model.

• Floor models like the Falcon 52 and Marlin 52 & Polar 80.

• Double chamber models like the Polar 2-50, Polar 2-85 and the Polar 2-95 always in stock and readily available.

• Showroom located in Ashford, Kent. Book your visit to view the machines and discover their capabilities first hand!

• Henkelman UK has the most competitive pricing in the industry for the UK marketplace with models to suit all applications and budgets.

• We hold an extensive stock of vacuum packer spare parts – ready to be dispatched when you need them.

• What machine is best for me? Head over to our website FAQs to find out!

Tel: 0800 988 7033 Email: sales@henkelman.co.uk Web:

packaging technology 0800 988 7033 sales@henkelman.co.uk www.henkelman.co.uk Units 1-6 Mountain

is part

Restaurants value loyal customers – and the industry now needs them more than ever.

Did you know: 18-30% – increase in spend and visits attributable to loyalty programmes

6% – average difference between loyalty and non-loyalty checks

5-17% – percentage of total revenue driven by the most loyal 2-17% of customers.*

Customer experience set to reach new levels

In addition, the level of inflation at which customer check size drops is 10%. Which is just about where we’re hovering in the UK at the moment.

Chris Cartmell, Chief Commercial Officer for NFS restaurant technology, said: “Clients want a more integrated omnichannel approach to client engagement, loyalty and feedback. Discounting to incentivise also needs a rethink.”

In response to this demand, NFS – provider of Aloha restaurant management software – have selected top customer experience platform Paytronix Systems Inc as their UK and Ireland partner.

NFS clients include top brands such as BrewDog, Dishoom, Marugame Udon Europe and Gaucho. Paytronix seamlessly integrates with Aloha, improving client engagement, growing revenue and a better picture of client spend and preferences.

Chris said: “The secret of putting your restaurant at the heart of a friendly community is to combine a great epos system – that provides excellent customer service including tableside ordering and payment, or kiosk ordering – with a customer experience platform.”

This bolsters and grows your restaurant’s loyalty community in 5 ways:

1

It allows you to provide a truly customised oneto-one journey for your guests, combining data and marketing automation in one dashboard. 2

You can personalise digital marketing to a customer’s behaviour and connected to their actual guest spend.

3 You can create and deploy omnichannel marketing campaigns in minutes, using core design options that suit your customers’ needs.

4 You can encourage increased order frequency by offering combined services – for example, restaurants who combine online ordering and loyalty programmes together report that order frequency rises by 18%.

5

Loyalty becomes more enticing to customers. A system that integrates epos and customer experience platforms gives them more ways to enrol and provides more promotion types. The best practitioners say they gain guest participation of 50 to 70%.

Aloha – used by 140,000 outlets worldwide –enables tableside ordering and payment, swifter seating and table turn, stock and labour control.

Chief Revenue Officer of Paytronix Charles Gray said: “Today’s market requires a strong technological solution to meet the changing needs of restaurant guests.”

*Source: Paytronix: Loyalty Report 2022 – download it free here: https://alohaepos.co.uk/annual-loyalty-report/

• Discover more: https://alohaepos.co.uk/

The Future of Hotel Heating

Gone are the days of plain, dull radiators & towel rails.  The latest modern designs feature eye-catching shapes and bold colours, with many also ticking the box of being energy efficient.  With designer styles making a statement in their own right, hotel heating has never looked so good.  Nick Duggan, MD at The Radiator Centre, takes us through this rapidly developing market.

Hotel bathrooms play an important part of the guest experience and are often seen as places in which to relax and unwind during a stay.  Indeed, the ‘hotel bathroomlook’ is so sought after, people try to recreate it in their own homes.  Whether the interior is designed to give a luxurious spa-like feel or a simpler more pared-back atmosphere, one thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is the heating.  For hotel bathrooms, this will usually take the form of a heated towel rail and there is a great range on the market.  From large chain hotels to smaller boutique destinations, the simple act of providing warm, fluffy towels is an easy way to make guests happy and therefore more likely to return.  Depending on the size of the room, sometimes a radiator may also be needed and a simple heat calculator can help to determine whether this is necessary.

Hotel bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes and when planning the layout, finding space to dry towels is one of the key requirements.  Whilst the standard ladder rail may now be considered a bit outdated and doesn’t always fit the space, modern alternatives are available in a wide array of interesting colours, styles and finishes.  Horizontal designs are great for when wall space is short and can be placed in otherwise ‘dead’ spaces such as that above a bath.  Curved designs are a good option for super thick fluffy towels and also give a stylish, elegant look.

Continue reading on restaurant-update.co.uk

Solstice AV activates new robotics division to launch world-leading Pudu Robotics into UK market

Solstice AV has today announced its brand new partnership with Pudu Robotics, together with the creation of a new robotics division, designed to accelerate growth of the global-leading commercial service robots in the UK.

With the service delivery robot market predicted to grow to $100bn globally by 2030, Solstice is the first trade-only distributor to make commercial service robots available to the channel. Leveraging a local stock holding, rapid delivery, and a national network of over 100 qualified engineers, Solstice is set to enable resellers to enter this rapidly growing market with minimal investment in technical resource.

Leo Hu, UK Country Manager at Pudu Robotics, said: “We’re very happy to have Solstice as our first trade only distributor in the UK. Through Solstice and their reseller network, we will be able to address the challenges and needs of our customers with our award-winning commercial service robots and Solstice’s unique service-led distribution.

“The commercial service robot market is growing rapidly with predictions stating that 25% of hospitality workers will be

robots by 2030. Solstice will give us the local presence, an excellent reseller network, plus the on-site service and support capability we need to meet our customers’ needs.”

Lee Hooker, Commercial Director at Solstice, added: “Today, restaurants, hotels and retailers face daily challenges with attracting and retaining employees, as well as constantly spiraling costs. Pudu Robotics’ service delivery robots address all of these challenges, supplementing the existing workforce with reliable, efficient backup, and allowing staff to focus on what’s important – the customer.

“Research shows that adding robots to a hospitality business fills the staff gap, reduces costs and makes for happier employees and clientele. We will be providing local stock holding with a full-service offering, including on-site installation, hotline support and on-site warranty for all Pudu robots, giving resellers a fast entry into this rapidlygrowing and exciting market, while allowing end customers to purchase from the existing suppliers they know and trust.” pudurobotics.com

Distribution challenger, Solstice, has launched a new robotics division, partnering with Pudu Robotics to introduce a range of commercial service robots into the UK mainstream marketplace

Eucalyptus – The Refresher

Hill Hassall Botanics, The Eucalyptus Beverage Company, discovered a novel way to infuse a sophisticated Eucalyptus essence into a rejuvenating, everyday drink. The one word that came back over and over again at tasting events was “refreshing.” The bubbles in sparkling water served to amplify the aromatic qualities of the Eucalyptus globulus leaves and in Hill Hassall Botanics’ signature drink, The Refresher, they really deliver.

The Refresher is one measure Hill Hassall Botanics’ Eucalyptus cordial, five measures sparkling water and a wedge of lime or cucumber to garnish. Eucalyptus is a pleasant surprise on the palette: cleansing, moreish, delicate and novel. Easy to make and a unique taste to enjoy and present to guests. Fantastic after exercise or when winding down in the evening. At 50ml a serving and a 1:5 blend with sparkling water The Refresher costs just over £1 per 300ml serving.

Mature Eucalyptus globulus leaves are harvested by hand in a purposeplanted Eucalyptus grove at Ventnor Botanic Garden on the Isle of Wight, so for those that want to know where their products come from, we can trace the special flavour straight back to the grove. The botanic garden on the Isle of Wight has the largest outdoor collection of Eucalyptus in the U.K. Eucalyptus grows particularly well in the microclimate there which is 5oC hotter than the U.K. mainland. As ash, elm and oak disappear from the U.K. landscape, we may see more and more Eucalypts in U.K. gardens and woodlands.

The Refresher is not only a great new taste, it is good for you. 1.8-cineole or Eucalyptol is a natural organic compound found in Eucalyptus globulus. It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been proven clinically effective in treating upper and lower respiratory tract diseases. When we look to plants used medicinally by indigenous people, we often find an effective, if out of use, medicine chest. The Aborigines used Eucalyptus to alleviate skin, joint and lung conditions. Indeed, Eucalyptus finds its way into many modern-day products. Many medicinal herbalists count Eucalyptus as a core plant remedy.

Beyond The Refresher mixologists have found Hill Hassall Botanics’ Eucalyptus cordial to be a versatile mixer, an exciting addition to a classic G&T, a Mojito, a boost for juices like orange, cranberry and apple. Everyone likes a unique new refreshing taste whether competing for Cocktail of the Year or just making that breakfast orange juice more appealing.

Available on hillhassall.co.uk.

YouGov survey reveals significant shift to out-ofhome EV charging

A recent YouGov survey reveals a significant shift towards out-of-home EV (electric vehicle) charging, as public and destination charging facilities start to step up to meet growing demand.

The survey, conducted by YouGov on behalf of CTEK, the leading global brand in vehicle charging, reveals that only 56% of EV owners are now charging at home (down from 78% in 2021), with 20% charging at shopping centres, 20% at work, 11% at hotels and 8% at restaurants. 17% are charging at petrol stations, but only 7% give this as their preferred place to charge, and 12% actually say that not having to visit petrol stations is their favourite thing about EV ownership!

Figures from Zap Map show that the number of public charge points has risen by 34% since last year2 and, encouragingly, the YouGov survey reveals that availability of public charging is now far less of a concern for EV owners, with only 8% giving lack of local charging facilities as their biggest frustration, compared with 30% in 2021.

However, almost three quarters (71%) of UK motorists still feel that more charging infrastructure is needed to meet growing demand for

EV charging and, although this has reduced slightly from 78% in 2021, remains the highest level in Europe.

The importance of out-of-home charging is further evidenced by 44% of UK motorists saying that availability of public charging makes them more likely to buy an EV. In addition, half (50%) of drivers say they’re more likely to buy an EV if they have charging facilities at work, and this rises to 81% amongst former EV owners.

Reliability of out-of-home charging remains an issue with 9% of UK EV owners, 7% are frustrated by complexity of payment and 59% feel that lack of EV roaming, which would allow drivers to access different providers’ chargers and networks, is a major frustration. This is an even greater issue in Germany and France, where 67% and 62% of drivers respectively are frustrated by lack of EV roaming. It is less of an issue in The Netherlands and Scandinavia, where EV roaming is better established.

Cecilia Routledge, Global Director, Energy & Facilities for CTEK, said: “It is extremely encouraging to see that the availability of public and destination charging facilities is starting to step up to meet the growing demand for out-ofhome charging, as this is a vital factor in the overall acceptance and take up of electric motoring.

“However, reliability of out-of-home charging remains an issue, and this is an aspect that needs additional focus, along with steps to reduce the complexity of payment and industry-wide commitment to rolling out EV roaming, which would give EV drivers better access to charging stations, in the same way that mobile phone users can simply access different networks as they travel around the globe.”

With the escalating cost of living and rising fuel prices, it’s hardly surprising that financial considerations are becoming increasingly important for all motorists. A quarter (25%) of current EV owners now give lower running costs as their favourite thing about EV ownership, ahead of 21% citing environmental benefits. However, UK EV owners remain the most environmentally conscious in Europe, with 33% giving concern for the environment as the main reason for purchasing an EV, compared with an average of 23% in the rest of Europe, where lower running costs are the main reason for purchase.

For non-EV owners, lower running costs have become more important than access to charge points, and the purchase price of EVs remains the biggest barrier for motorists considering

the switch. In addition, 64% of drivers feel that Government subsidies are essential to encourage more people to buy EVs, this being the highest level in Europe.

The survey also highlighted a need for clear, consistent information about EVs and EV charging, to help drivers cut through the mountains of, sometimes conflicting, information that’s out there. 30% of drivers said they were confused by all the information available on EVs, 45% said they wouldn’t know where to go to find out about EVs, and 17% of drivers said that knowing more about EVs and how they work would encourage them to purchase one.

Here are some other interesting facts and figures from the survey (all figures relate to the UK, unless stated).

• UK and Dutch adults are the most positive in Europe about EVs, with 55% of motorists in these countries believing electric motoring is the future of road travel. This rises to 70% of current UK EV owners.

• 81% of current EV owners and 77% of hybrid owners say they are likely to buy a fully electric vehicle in the future.

• The number of EV owners giving driving range (the distance that a vehicle can travel on one charge) as their main frustration has reduced from 23% in 2021 to 17% this year, but more than half (51%) of EV owners still have some level of range anxiety.

• EV owners give lower running costs as their favourite thing about electric motoring (25%), with 21% mentioning environmental benefits,

12% saying they like not having to visit petrol stations, 11% liking the vehicle’s technology, and 8% liking ‘fringe benefits’ such as free parking and reduced congestion charges.

• 40% of EV owners charge once a week or less, 26% charge 2 to 3 times a week and 17% charge 1 to 3 times a week. Only 14% charge every day.

• 29% of EV owners drive their vehicles 4 to 6 times a week, 24% drive 2 to 3 times a week, 20% every day, 13% once a week and 11% once a fortnight or less.

• The availability of Government subsidies, to make an EV more affordable, remains the main thing that would encourage nonEV drivers to make the switch (49%). Lower running costs have become more important (44%), and access to charge points (40%) less important than last year. Environmental concern remains the fourth biggest incentive to switch, at 30%, followed by knowing more about EVs and how they work (17%).

• In terms of purchase costs, 18% of UK drivers said they would pay up to £10K for an EV, 12% up to £15K, 9% up to £20K, 7% up to £25K, 4% up to £30K and 1% over £30K.

A full report, with findings on electric vehicle take up and ownership across Europe (UK, Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway), is available at www.ctek.com/uk/survey-electricvehicle-ownership-and-take-up-ineurope

Gong’s Beautiful Wall Lights Help to Create Warm and Stylish Bedrooms at Hotel Gramont, Paris

When Aurelié Lambert was given the opportnity of re-imagining the 25 rooms at the Ĥotel Gramont, she knew that the lighting would play a key part and that Gong’s beautiful fixtures would help bring her vision to life. The brief was chic and eclectic, with a theme of travel and in the style of a cabinet of curiosities. Unique pieces paired with beautiful classic design were used to create rooms that were timeless, beautiful and comfortable.

Jo Plismy has vast experience working with Interior Designers and knows just how much impact the lighting can have on hotel bedrooms, “Hotels are all about the experience for the guest and lighting is vital for helping to create the right atmosphere in a room. In most cases, the design will require several layers of lights including, floor, table, wall and pendants which all work independently. This not only helps in achieving the required relaxing and comfortable atmosphere, but also plays an important part in the lighting being functional too.”

Chief Lighting Designer, Jo Plismy of Gong, is passionate about her designs and was delighted to work with Interior Designer, Aurelié Lambert on the refurbishment of the charming and eclectic Hotel Gramont, in the heart of the Paris Opera District.

Hotel bedrooms usually serve a number of purposes from sleeping and reading, to dressing, relaxing and working, which means an array of lighting choices must be carefully considered. “Lights can also be used to help zone the space” comments Jo, “dedicated lights by the bed are needed for reading, while you may choose a table lamp for the desk and working area, and further brighter lighting for the dressing area, as well as general ambient lighting. All of these lights work together to create a beautiful overall layered effect and give the user the choice of creating little softer, relaxing pockets of light for a restful, romantic environment”.

A combination of lights were used from Gong’s Wall Lighting Collection to provide perfect illumination for reading in bed. Jo explains, “Wall lights have an advantage over table lights as they don’t take up space on a bedside table. Many designs are also adjustable, allowing the user to direct the light to the exact place they want. The Peggy Bedside lights shown above and below feature a matt finish shade with a beautiful golden interior, which creates a lovely warm light. The bases are made of brass with an antique finish to give a high end look”.

The rooms are now a delicate mix of subtle fabrics including linen, jute

and velvet, paired with carefully selected objects from all over the world. The multitude of considered lighting options further elevates the interior style, ensuring each space is inviting and welcoming. Jo comments, “The Ĥotel Gramont is a little gem in the heart of the busy Opera district and the rooms have been beautifully reimagined and perfectly designed by Aurelié. She has cleverly used a blend of styles and era’s adding fun, quirky touches to ensure guests have an unforgettable experience. We are so pleased our lights are now a part of this stylish boutique hotel and that we have played a part in it’s beautiful decoration”.

Images courtesy of Aurelié Lambert www.aurelielambert.com and Hotel Gramont www.hotelgramontparis.com

To follow Gong’s Instagram, please follow this link: www.instagram.com/gong_design

Jo Plismy works with architects, interior designers, hotels, restaurants and decoration shops throughout the world. Passionate about timeless designs, combined with high quality materials and expert craftsmanship, Gong’s focus is style with atmosphere. Custom orders are accepted.

If you are going to introduce Christmas music, or if you are already using music in your business, you’ll usually need a music licence. By purchasing TheMusicLicence you are supporting the future of music by helping to ensure its creators are fairly rewarded for their work. TheMusicLicence covers virtually all commercially released music available –millions of songs & recordings, including the most popular & well-loved music, not just from the UK, but globally

A hotel/B&B/ Guesthouse that is 400sqm or less and has 15 rooms or fewer could use background music in hotel bedrooms, corridors and foyers via the TV or Radio for £212.89. (excluding VAT). Cost examples are subject to change due to inflation.