Warm Welcome Magazine - May Issue by The Little Publishing House

May Issue The smart keg technology transforming the pub and restaurant industry...

Five food trends and how they are shaping new safety requirements...

Upgrade guest comfort with mobile keys and contactless check-in...

Pages 26-27

Pages 32-33

Pages 40-41

warmwelcomemagazine.com

Contents 4

Hotels

Outdoor Solutions

Housekeeping & Laundry Equipment

Contract Furniture & Furnishings

Safety & Security

Travel

To feature in an upcoming issue or to discuss advertising opportunities please contact a member of the Warm Welcome team; Publication Manager Dean Little - 01227 314 324 dean@warmwelcomemagazine.com Sales & Marketing Manager Michael Amor - 01227 314 324 michael@warmwelcomemagazine.com Editorial Assistant Carol Jean - 01227 314 324 carol@warmwelcomemagazine.com

A scintillating summer with Pride of Britain With Britain set to have a bumper summer, why not celebrate the art of great British hospitality with Pride of Britain Hotels? The 50-strong collection of luxury properties boasts many tempting ideas for summertime fun across Britain - from a pop-up Shetland pony in central London and plentiful gourmet dining experiences, to private afternoon tea parties, watercolour painting, Scottish fiddle lessons and e-bike tours. Built in the Edwardian era by Otto Goring, The Goring in London is the only hotel in the world to have been granted a Royal Warrant from HM The Queen, and the property is still run by the Goring family today. This summer, the hotel will launch its first ‘stable-cation’, when family member Teddy the Shetland pony, owned by CEO Jeremy Goring’s cousins, comes to stay in The Goring’s huge central London garden from 16th – 31st August in his own pop-up stable. A delicious limited-edition Teddy the Shetland-themed tea will be served on the terrace, or on picnic blankets in the garden, with the menu featuring Teddy’s favourite carrot cake, Polomint-infused scones and mini apple tarts. There will also be the chance to meet

Teddy in the garden. The Teddy the Shetland overnight package starts from £585 per room (two sharing), including afternoon tea, full English breakfast, and a Teddy the Shetland memento. Alternatively, the Teddy the Shetland Afternoon tea can be booked separately from £50 pp. Enjoy the film of Teddy’s first visit to The Goring here: thegoring.com/the-goring/ teddy/ (his overnight case features an impressive array of carrots, apples and hairbrushes!). Five-red-star Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, in Bath, has teamed up with celebrated local artist Catherine Beale to deliver a special Watercolours in the garden painting package which includes two hours of private tuition with Catherine in the hotel’s one-acre garden, with all painting materials required included. The price is from £475 pp (two sharing; weekend supplement applies) including a night’s accommodation, afternoon tea, two hours’ painting tuition, full English breakfast, use of the hotel’s excellent spa and pool, and valet parking. Valid 17th May - 30th Sept.

Hotels

Enjoy the best of Sussex on a top-of-therange e-bike. The Cycle Electric Sussex tour, put together with cycling specialists Cycling for Softies, includes stays at three characterful Sussex hotels. Spend the first night at Ockenden Manor Hotel and Spa in Cuckfield – perhaps enjoying the spa before a three-course dinner - with the cycling adventure beginning the next morning, after breakfast. The 40-mile route will wind through the Sussex countryside, passing Bramber Castle and the South Downs National Park (which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year) to reach Bailiffscourt, nestled above Climping Beach. On arrival, relax in the indoor – or heated outdoor - infinity pool, perhaps take a dip in the sea and enjoy a wellearned three-course dinner and overnight stay. After breakfast on day three, follow a 25-mile cross-country route to The Spread Eagle, one of the oldest inns in England, in the pretty market town of Midhurst, where use of the spa, and dinner and breakfast, is included. The price is from £979 per person (two sharing), including three nights’ half-board accommodation, e-bike hire with GPS maps, luggage transfers

between the hotels and taxi transfer from The Spread Eagle to Ockenden Manor if needed. Gravetye Manor, in Sussex, is a Grade I-listed Elizabethan stone mansion set in 1,000 acres of parkland. There are 17 bedrooms furnished with fine antiques and rich floral-themed fabrics, and a Michelinstarred restaurant run by talented Head Chef George Blogg. During summertime, the hotel comes into its own; its muchrevered gardens were created in 1885 by William Robinson, one of England’s most celebrated gardeners, and they are now in the expert hands of Head Gardener Tom Coward and his team. For an unforgettable summer experience, book the hotel’s enclosed oak gazebo for Afternoon Tea, and savour saffron egg mayonnaise sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, pistachio and rhubarb Battenburg and a selection of teas and coffees in glorious surroundings. The price is from £50 pp and includes a glass of Sussex sparkling wine on arrival at 3.30pm followed by Afternoon Tea. Available May-September for parties of six to 12 guests. Lunch and Afternoon Tea may also be enjoyed outdoors from 12th April until 14th May, amidst the huge herbaceous borders – and the dining room, with its large glass windows, also delivers the feeling of dining in the garden itself. For a state-of-the-art spa look no further than Sopwell House, an 18th century Georgian manor house hotel located in St Albans, which is home to Cottonmill, a three-storey spa. It is the first UK spa to introduce treatments on an Amber & Rose Quartz Crystal Bed; other facilities include an indoor swimming pool with two whirlpools, steam and sauna rooms, Vichy shower bed, a beauty salon, fitness studio and 16 treatment rooms. The spa provides a range of soothing treatments, after which guests can unwind in the Rose Relaxation Room with its rose-tinted screens and acoustic ‘petals’, relax with a drink in the Sitting Room or try the Pantry’s fresh seasonal cuisine. The Midweek Escape is from £135 pp (two sharing) and includes a three-course dinner in the Brasserie, use of the Cottonmill spa and full English breakfast. Available Sunday to Thursday. Located in the heart of Helmsley, North Yorkshire, Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa has the perfect Food Lovers Break lined up for guests this summer. Arrive at the hotel and indulge in a

Hotels

delicious sweet or savoury afternoon tea, perhaps spending some time in the outdoor heated pool. In the evening, indulge in a seasonal five-course tasting menu, with the option to add a tailored wine flight or a glass of bubbly. The following morning, browse in Helmsley’s charming independent shops and delis, visit Rievaulx Abbey, once one of the wealthiest monasteries in England, or go walking on the North York Moors, which are just moments from the hotel. The price is from £339 per room / £170 per person (two sharing), including afternoon tea, five-course dinner and full Yorkshire breakfast. Overlooking Durham’s Heritage Coast, Seaham Hall is a spacious five-star boutique hotel set in 37 acres of grounds. The hotel has just 21 luxuriously-appointed suites, a two-AA Rosette restaurant, The Dining Room, plus a Pan-Asian eatery, Ozone. Dining on its spacious terrace on locally-sourced seafood is another foodie option. Its award-winning Serenity Spa features a 20-metre pool, outdoor hot tubs and Zen Garden, plus a hydrotherapy pool. Seaham Hall’s new Swap Four Walls for Sweeping Coastlines break includes accommodation in a junior suite with kingsized Hypnos bed, breakfast (available in The Dining Room or served in your suite), dinner (a choice between The Dining Room or Ozone), complimentary daily spa use, plus a 60-minute Temple Spa or ishga spa treatment each, and a mud rasul experience for two.

The price is from £1,615 total/ £808 pp (two sharing), including four nights’ half-board accommodation and the treatments listed.

Available until 31st October, 2021, prepayment only, with a flexible cancellation policy.

The Vineyard, near Newbury, Berkshire, is a luxury five-red-star hotel and spa with an award-winning restaurant and a 30,000-bottle wine cellar. On selected Sundays this summer, the hotel is running Champagne Sundays, when guests will enjoy unlimited Champagne during their stay and a bottle of Taittinger Champagne to take home. The price is from £175 pp (based on two sharing), including overnight accommodation, three-course à la carte dinner, unlimited Champagne during their stay (served by the glass), full English breakfast and a bottle of Champagne to take home. Available until 30th June and 1st to 26th September. Excludes July, August, and Bank Holidays.

The castle’s capacious grounds and gardens, with dining options in glorious restored Victorian greenhouses, ensure that social distancing is easy to maintain, and boat trips to the nearby islands – with overnight Glamping an exciting option! – ensure that the fresh sea air can be enjoyed to the full.

Standing high above the dramatic Ayrshire coast in SW Scotland, Glenapp Castle is a 17-bedroom luxury five-star hotel with fairy-tale turrets, spacious oak-panelled suites and The Endeavour, a vast new penthouse apartment, launching in May. Of the 65-plus activities offered by the hotel, the new Scottish Fiddle Experience provides one-to-one tuition with local fiddle expert Mark Mitchel, who will teach guests the difference between reels, jigs, and strathspeys. The price is from £420 pp and includes two nights’ accommodation (two sharing a Garden View Suite) with full Scottish breakfast, 6-8 hours’ private fiddle tuition with equipment, a fiddle certificate, and refreshments during lessons.

Hotels

Set in Pembrokeshire’s rolling countryside, 25-bedroom boutique bolthole Grove of Narberth is a relaxed retreat, lovingly restored with thoughtful touches such as Welsh blankets, antiques and arts and crafts. The hotel’s Exceptional Gourmet Escape will be a welcome treat and a much-relished change from endless home cooking! - and it includes a tantalising five-course tasting menu created by Executive Head Chef Douglas Balish in The Fernery restaurant. The hotel is just a few miles from the worldrenowned Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, plus stunning sandy beaches and Welsh harbour villages. The hotel is soon to launch six newly refurbished rooms within the original 15th century stone cottages including three fabulous garden suites. Designed by Martin Hulbert, the garden suites feature lounges in glass boxes in the garden, bringing the ‘inside out’. The price is from £400 per room/£200 pp (two sharing), including overnight accommodation, a five-course dinner and full Welsh breakfast.

Go in search of the elusive Loch Ness Monster this summer while staying at Ness Walk, a five-star hotel in Inverness, just ten minutes’ drive from Loch Ness. Book a two-night stay and the hotel will arrange a two-hour boat tour of Loch Ness with Jacobite Cruises where you will follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and visit via Thomas Telford’s impressive Caledonian Canal. Take in the sights, sounds and stories of the Great Glen, Bona Lighthouse and Urquhart Castle before returning to the hotel for some post-lockdown pampering. The price is from £390 pp (two sharing) and includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast, a glass of Champagne on arrival, à la carte dinner on the first night, Strawberry Afternoon Tea and the boat trip to Loch Ness. Available until 10th October, 2021. We are all craving some much-needed ‘metime’, and Ellenborough Park’s All About Me stay is perfect for those needing to recharge their batteries and escape the routine with a night away. The historic 61-bedroom Cotswold manor house overlooks Cheltenham Racecourse and features alfresco dining with new dining carriages, a relaxing spa and its very own country pub, The Horse Box. The All About Me break is from £220 pp (two sharing), including dinner, bed & breakfast, a Mimosa cocktail, 55-minute de-stress Elemis treatment (bespoke facial, back and shoulder massage) and use of robes, slippers and fluffy towels. Valid on selected dates throughout the summer. To book a stay at the collection of 50 member properties, please call Pride of Britain Hotels on 0800 089 3929 or visit prideofbritainhotels.com

Hotels

Launch of the Inaugural Hotel Week London 28th May through to 6th June 2021 We are delighted to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at promoting and supporting the re-opening of London’s finest hotels post lockdown, anticipated from 17th May onwards. Hotel Week London will take place from 28th May to 6th June 2021, bringing together a diverse and exciting collection of London hotels from all corners of the capital – all offering superb discounted rates and unique value-added packages with the aim of enticing Londoners and British travellers to explore London once again. Guests will be able to book to stay at any time during this week to redeem exclusive offers and rates, and bookings will be available to be made from 12th April 2021. These unique packages have been tailor-made for the campaign but many will be extended until the end of June, allowing for multiple stays and longer booking opportunities. Participating properties include luxury hotels such as DUKES London in the heart of St James’, the Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill in Portman Square, the Corinthia and the Dorchester, as well as more affordable options, including The Tower Hotel, The Standard, Ruby Lucy Hotel and

Mama Shelter London Shoreditch. As well as offering exclusive rates available during Hotel Week London only, each of the 35 participating hotels has designed its own experience or added value activity, ranging from pizza-making classes, transfers by vintage car from London stations, to room upgrades, Michelin-starred dining and cocktail-creation classes. All participating hotels and their respective offers can be found on the dedicated Hotel Week London website and bookings can be made either by clicking through to the participating hotel’s reservation site or by calling the hotels directly, quoting ‘Hotel Week London’. The last 12 months have been an incredibly tough time for the UK tourism industry and in particular the London hotel sector. By joining forces and working together as a collective, Hotel Week London sends out a stronger message that the city is back, open for business and ready to welcome back British visitors. Commenting on the newly launched campaign Jonathan Sloan, MMGY Global:

Hotels

“There has never been a better time to come and explore London. As the hotel sector reopens there is a unique window for domestic travellers to experience the city without the normal influx of international visitors and offering the opportunity to support London hotels that have been particularly affected over the last 12 months. Hotel Week London gives us the opportunity to escape our homes while enjoying super deals from some of the capital’s finest hotels.” Hotel Week London is the brainchild of MMGY Global, the leading integrated marketing company specialising in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. The PR and marketing campaign is being run by two of MMGY Global’s London based agencies, MMGY Grifco, MMGY Digital Spring and MMGY Hills Balfour. To support the London hotel sector and the British travel industry, all London hotels have been offered completely free access to the promotion. For further information on Hotel Week London, to view the available offers please visit hotelweeklondon.co.uk

Hotels

Hotel Brooklyn Manchester, re-opens with a ‘Freedom Direct’ deal Just a handful of weeks after Manchester’s newest design-led hotel, Hotel Brooklyn, opened on 14th February it was closed by COVID. It re-opened for a short window before our second national lockdown. One of Conde Nast Traveller’s ‘Top 30 Hotels in the UK’, and named one of the ‘Top British Hotels for 2020’ by The Sunday Times, Hotel Brooklyn is back, proud to be the nation’s most accessible hotel, arms open to welcome those of us missing the buzz of the UK’s great northern metropolis which is gearing up for a summer of events including August’s world-famous Pride Festival. Loud, proud and with bags of northern soul, Hotel Brooklyn celebrates its reopening with amazing mid-week and multi-night savings. The Freedom Direct Deal includes an overnight stay in a twin or double room, breakfast, a £40 voucher for food whilst in the Hotel during your stay and one of the hotel’s famous ‘Hooch’ Bags containing a can of Brooklyn Beer (or non-alcoholic alternative), a can of G&T, 2 x Hershey Bars, a pack of Pringles and a pack of popcorn. Price per night from £139. Better, guests booking direct are in the running to win a 5-night stay in New York, travel allowing,

staying in a plush midtown Manhattan Hotel with economy return flights included. General Manager Paul Bayliss says: “We are a brand new property so we already have lots of features designed to allow for an environment where personal space is key, including a self-check-in facility, nearly 200 brand new and immaculately clean bedrooms and staff fully-trained in the highest standards. We have large restaurant and banqueting spaces, several separate kitchens and four lifts, allowing us to plan for continued social distancing. I am delighted to celebrate the hospitality industry getting back on its feet and look forward to welcoming visitors to Manchester’s little piece of the Big Apple’.

allow look out across the city. Bathroom amenities include organic bamboo toothbrushes and ethically sourced toothpaste, green soap and lotion dispensers with minimum waste.

Designed by Squid Inc, the 189-room hotel pays homage to Brooklyn’s history from early 20th century and – crucially - is a pioneer in accessible design – leading the way in Europe with its adaptability features: a trailblazer in accessible, sexy and modern design for all.

Hotel Brooklyn’s bar and restaurant presents a diverse menu showcasing European and American influences, starting from £22 for main dishes. Featuring classics such as Crab Flake A La Newberg, Billy’s Bacon Fried Rice, ‘Oscar’s’ B.L.T Wedge and Hash Browns, alongside vegetarian and vegan options. On the top floor of the hotel, Salvation Bar is part of the hotel’s dedicated private events space with panoramic views across the city.

Bedrooms & Suites The aesthetic of the 189 bedrooms have been inspired by Brooklyn’s loft spaces, peppered with features that favour quality and high-spec finishes. Bathrooms have been cleverly-angled to

Hotels

Accessibility The hotel features 18 accessible bedrooms designed by Motionspot and featuring subtle details like basins with integrated hand grips, removable matt black grab rails, accessible bedroom storage and a hidden ceiling track hoists, looking after guests of all abilities without compromising on beautiful design. F&B Space - Runyon’s and Salvation Bar

Nightly rates at Hotel Brooklyn start from £139 for a Club Room on a B&B basis.

Hotels

Hotel Management Made Easy An accomplished end to end cloud based hotel management system at the heart of your property

Property Management Solutions Hotel Perfect is for independent hotels, small groups, boutique hotels and B&Bs. Hotel Perfect helps simplify daily operations by automating routine tasks allowing you and your staﬀ to focus on the guest. A feature-rich, customisable management tool that updates in real-time. Coupled with a PCI Compliant payment gateway, Direct Booking Engine, Contactless Guest Check-in App, Channel Manager and Hospitality EPOS, you have a ﬂexible solution to support any hotel and venue with access from anywhere.

Hospitality POS The Hotel Perfect EPoS system gives you the power to handle every transaction faultlessly, including accurate stock control, employee clock in/out, wage reporting and voucher redemption.

Flexible Voucher Solution Vouchers are a brilliant additional revenue stream for hotels, our voucher solution integrates with Hotel Perfect allowing customers to redeem a voucher against their room bill or throughout the business when used with our EPoS solution.

Tel: 0843 309 1601

Sales@hotelperfect.co.uk

An intuitive, fully conﬁgurable property management solution, designed for the Luxury & Boutique and Independent hotels.

Contactless Guest Check-in A completely contactless check-in solution, our Pre-check-in app allows guests to complete the check-in process up to three days before they arrive, whilst our Lounge-Check-in app enables the hotel team to check guests in away from reception. Having door keys and additional preferences ready on arrival. Guest can use the Check-in app to checkout, view and pay their room bill at the end of their stay.

Direct Booking Engine As booking directly with hotels is becoming normal, don't miss out on converting online visitors into booking guests, with our fully responsive brand aligned Direct Booking Engine, you can drive direct online bookings, grow your business and maximise the rewards 24/7.

Channel Manager Ready to save time and money? Our Channel Manager is fully integrated with Hotel Perfect, it enables you to control rates and availability in real-time, so there is no longer a need to update channels individually.

Tel: 0843 309 1601

www.hotelperfect.co.uk

Is it time to reboot the restaurant recycling ethos? Philip Simpson, commercial director at ReFood, explains why now is the perfect time for hospitality businesses to embrace food waste recycling...

With lockdown restrictions easing and restaurants across the UK set to once again open their doors to the public, the hospitality industry is anticipating a muchneeded resurgence. But with overheads tight, savvy operators should be looking at effective ways to cut unnecessary costs. This is where managing food waste comes in – reducing operational expenses while improving your establishment’s reputation in one fell swoop. With so many restaurants, pubs and cafés reduced to offering either a takeaway service or completely shutting in recent months, now could be the perfect time to take a fresh look at operations. In our experience, one of the blind spots of many restaurateurs is the way they deal with peelings, plate scrapings and spoiled produce. Too many businesses simply throw it straight in the bin, when it could be used to generate renewable energy instead. Zero waste to landfill? According to insight from New Food Waste Horizons, a pioneering research report analysing the UK’s progress towards zero food waste to landfill, the hospitality and food services industry wastes more than £3 billion per annum by needlessly throwing away perfectly edible produce. But while a significant drain on profits, the environmental implications of this behaviour are even more concerning. In fact, food waste that decomposes in landfill is said to release greenhouse gases 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide. However, by reviewing processes and approaching food waste from the top down, restaurants can minimise their reliance on landfill and slash waste management costs. What’s more, with research from the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) suggesting that patrons are more likely to frequent an ethicallyconscious establishment, stepping up sustainability can also drive increased footfall.

your business – this makes it simple and achievable to implement counteractive processes. - Poor inventory practices – Do you find that food sits for a long time in storage, often resulting in staff throwing away out of date items? If so, you may be over-ordering. To combat this, it’s essential to keep an up-todate inventory and regularly audit how much food you’re serving on a daily and weekly basis. - Sub-standard organisation – Do you regularly find old items at the back of the fridge, many of which have to be thrown out? If so, your stock organisation system isn’t working as it should. If you haven’t already, try implementing a first in, first out system. - Short shelf life – Are perishables turning before you’ve had a chance to use them? If so, audit your storage systems to ensure they’re up to scratch. Wasting food before it’s even cooked is simply unnecessary. - Overflowing kitchen bins – Are your kitchen bins overflowing with off-cuts, peelings and leftovers? If so, you should task your chef with transforming excess ingredients into soups, sauces and stocks. - Large portion sizes – Do you find that your portion sizes are often too big for customers to finish? While super-sizing may impress a minority, most patrons will waste a huge amount of excess. Try cutting out garnishes, reducing carbohydrates and offering more add-on side dishes. - Unpopular items – While some restaurants pride themselves on the length of their menu, this practice tends to result in extensive inventories, cooking from frozen and dishes failing to meet expectations. Try halving your menu size and prioritising local delicacies. - Promoting doggie bags – Do you keep a variety of disposable containers on hand and encourage patrons to take leftovers home with them? If you don’t, their plate scrapings will end up in your kitchen bins – costing you more money!

Tackling food waste When it comes to unnecessary waste, there are a number of repeat offenders in the hospitality industry – both before and after food is served. The first step to managing waste is understanding which apply to 14

Editor’s Choice

With an estimated 60% of food binned by hospitality businesses considered perfectly avoidable, a few small changes can have an immediate and measurable impact on both the bottom line and sustainability credentials.

The remaining 40%, however, comprises unavoidable fractions such as bones, gristle and shells. While inedible, it’s important to ensure that unavoidable waste isn’t simply landfilled. Alongside generating harmful greenhouse gases, this wastes a highly valuable resource. Although not the silver bullet solution, food waste recycling is a highly sustainable and cost effective solution for unavoidable waste. Efficient and environmentally-friendly, food waste recycling harnesses the value in unavoidable waste, while also diverting it away from landfill. As well as being a highly environmental option, recycling food waste can also cut waste management costs by more than 50%. Turn waste into energy At ReFood, we collect unavoidable food waste from hospitality businesses across the UK, recycling it into renewable resources via anaerobic digestion (AD). This process harnesses the natural degradation of food by capturing the biogas produced and using it to generate heat and renewable energy – both electricity and gas – which are sent directly to the National Grid. Meanwhile, the resulting residue can be used as a sustainable fertiliser; enabling beneficial nutrients to be retained and reinvested right back to the beginning of the food chain. ReFood makes sustainability simple. Our innovative ‘bin swap’ service see full bins replaced with sanitised ones after every collection, meaning they can be used in kitchen areas. This removes any worries about ‘smelly’ waste or bin cleaning and ensures the service is completely sanitary. All types of food – be it preparation waste, scraps and even packaged products – can be thrown in the bins, making it straightforward for businesses to implement. There are huge financial benefits possible by considering waste at every stage of food management and the case for a change in attitude is incredibly strong. With significant improvements possible with just small process improvements, the sector is in a prime position to benefit. It’s a win:win for both hard pressed pubs, restaurants and caterers – and the environment. Businesses can save a significant amount of money, while reducing waste. As we emerge from lockdown, it could be that food waste really can bring the ‘Midas touch’ to the catering trade.

Editor’s Choice

Enhance the perception of clean with a venue that smells great Act now: Ensure your investment in reopening creates a positive experience for your staff and diners

Now that there is a roadmap for coming out of lockdown, restaurant and pub managers need to ensure that premises are not only clean and safe, but also restore confidence for returning staff and diners. First impressions count, and can begin before people even see if a venue is clean. The sense of smell is the strongest of the five senses and one of the body’s front-line defence mechanisms, designed to set off alarm bells if a foul smell is detected. According to research, 75% of all emotions generated each day are due to smell, and we are therefore 100 times more likely to remember something we smell over anything we hear, see, or touch. A bad smell is a warning of a bad experience to come. “Many restaurants and pubs have been closed for months, and while they might have been cleaned, air quality will be poor, and with a reduced frequency of cleaning routines, they will not smell as fresh as they should,” says P-Wave® Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Wintle. “People’s trust in the cleanliness and safety of a venue can be negatively impacted if it smells bad, as they will wonder why, and suspect that it is not hygienic.” Foul smells in any building are typically caused by the presence of bacteria which has been left to grow through either inadequate or infrequent or cleaning procedures. While the washroom may be the cause of the worst odours in a building, improving the air quality and freshness throughout premises brings many benefits. “Restaurant and pub managers should not overlook the power of scent in the workplace. Choosing the most appropriate fragrance to apply throughout a building can help create a happier and more relaxed experience for staff and guests, says Mark Wintle. “After all, shopping centres and highend retailers have been using ambient scents to positively influence customer perceptions for years. P-Wave has worked with leading fragrance houses to develop a range of wellresearched and consumer-tested popular fragrances. “As innovators in the air freshening industry, P-Wave understands that cleanliness and hygiene are the most important aspects of managing premises, but with the heightened awareness created by Covid-19, restaurant and pub managers need to action every option available to ensure safety and reassure employees and visitors,” says Mark.

Editor’s Choice

Washroom focus In all premises, to feel safe, consumers need to see – and smell – that the washroom is immaculately clean, but poor plumbing or maintenance, or an inadequate cleaning regime can lead to unfortunate odours which are unlikely to receive 5-star reviews. However, in urinals it is the actual minuteby-minute usage that can cause the biggest problem. “We’ve been solving the most common hygiene issue in urinals for years, as randomly splashed urine causes a headache for cleaners, plus a bad smell and a reduction in hygiene standards. “But there’s something even more important at this unprecedented time. According to The World Health Organisation (WHO), Coronavirus can spread in an infected person’s urine. This is called ‘viral shedding’, which means that if traces of contaminated urine become aerosolised and inhaled while using a urinal, the disease can infect others in the washroom1. That’s why P-Wave recently delivered a new angle on splash prevention, coupled with a major step forward in urinal deodorising technology with the launch of a new highly fragranced urinal screen.” To ensure washroom cleanliness and hygiene it is worth installing bio-enzymatic cleaning solutions in cisterns. They release billions of beneficial bacterial to consume bio-materials that cause odours, keeping the bowl clean, blue and fresh, while also reducing water consumption by displacing water that would normally be present. Toilet bowls should not be overlooked, and there are passive highly fragranced solutions which can be clipped over the outside of the toilet rim (under the seat) or hung anywhere. Passive and active air fresheners Passive air fresheners are ideal for smaller areas where consistent fragrancing is important. From simple, highly fragranced units for installation in bins, the back of doors, under a desks or in washrooms, to more powerful units which can be placed near a door or any space with good air flow, the open-air design ensures maximum surface area exposure for effective and efficient fragrance release. Active air fresheners replace aerosols and are better for the environment.

Systems are available to freshen small, medium and large spaces. Discrete wall or ceiling mounted systems can comprehensively freshen up to 16m3, and feature an intelligent fan which powers down when the lights go off to conserve the battery. For use in toilet cubicles, lifts, gyms and spas or even on a desk in an office, another motion-actvated solution delivers more targeted, clean and efficient air freshening in small spaces exactly when and where it’s needed, reducing fragrance overload, nasal fatigue, and aerosol residue. Also available are powerful, yet silent active fresheners which feature advanced microdiffusion technology. Delivering coverage from 200m3 to 1200m3, one option features bluetooth control and advanced programming via smartphone or tablet,

while the largest, features fully adjustable start/stop, diffusion and stand-by intervals as well as a weekend on/off function. “When specifying air freshening solutions, restaurant and pub managers also have the environment on mind and only choose and install products and consumables that are 100% recyclable,” says Mark. “As restaurants and pubs reopen, there’s no doubt that first impressions are hugely important and restore confidence. Owners and managers need to do all they can to ensure that staff and guests trust that premises are hygienic, safe and clean. Now is the time to address cleaning and maintenance issues, but also to ensure that premises smell clean and have a pleasant and inviting ambience.” For more information head over to www.p-wave.co.uk

Editor’s Choice

1st Folding Sliding Doors Ltd Bespoke Glazing Solutions

1st Folding Sliding Doors Ltd

ding Sliding Doors Ltd

We offer the installation of specialist bespoke sliding doors, bi-folding doors, glass Bespoke Glazing Solutions roof structures, windows and frameless glass balustrades. We manufacture and design innovative, frameless glazing systems. We also work closely with established We offer the installation ofUK specialist bespokedesigned sliding doors, bi-folding manufacturers, offering both and Offshore systems, withdoors, lead glass times as roof structures, windows and frameless glass balustrades. We manufacture and quick as one week on specific items.

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technical support, we have in place, our fully trained ‘in-house’ and208 also, the support www.1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk • installers, +44 (0) 997 2448 customers; thiswww.1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk gives us the confidence to promote the best•overall package available on the +44 (0) 208 997 2448

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urther information, or a quotation for your project, please do not hesitate to contact us.

stfoldingslidingdoors.co.ukOutdoor • +44 (0) 208 997 2448 Solutions 20

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Traditionally made, fabulous timbers in Oak, Teak, Iroko and Sweet Chestnut. Stunning handmade garden furniture brought to you by UK based Solid Oak Hardwood Furniture. Our time served exceptionally gifted craftsmen create stunning pieces of Luxury Handmade Furniture for you to enjoy for years to come. Garden tables, picnic tables, patio tables, barbecue serving tables, Bespoke tables. In fact any type size or shape - we can create these for you. To create perfection you have to be selective and responsible, so we very carefully select the finest hardwoods. Our main sources are FSC oak, FSC British sweet chestnut, FSC iroko and, of course, the very best FEQ teak. Our products are all environmentally friendly and we take the greatest care not to use harmful chemicals. Feel free to contact us today for more information or head over to our website to see the full range of furniture solidoakhardwoodfurniture.com

Outdoor Solutions

STUNNING HANDMADE GARDEN FURNITURE BROUGHT TO YOU BY UK BASED SOLID OAK HARDWOOD FURNITURE To create perfection we very carefully choose the finest hardwoods.

As a genuine British Manufacturer we take great pride in creating all our products to the highest standards.

Our main timbers are Oak, Teak, Iroko and British Sweet Chestnut.

We employ traditional joinery techniques and use the very finest timbers, all legally certified and in accordance with FSC and PEFC guidelines.

Our products are all environmentally friendly and we take the greatest care not to use harmful chemicals.

These standards are your guarantee of our commitment to sustainability and preservation of the worlds natural resources. Once our selected timber arrives in our care, we check to ensure the timber is to our exacting standards, grade and store to allow air flow until we are ready to create your furniture.

Our furniture is only available from our factory in Hartlepool. We deliver across the UK and Europe All our handmade furniture carries a 15 year warranty covering defective workmanship.

SIMPLY CALL US ON So if you are looking for that special something to impress at dinner parties, a curved bench to sit around the patio, an accessible table, or a single chair and side table to sit in peace and admire your garden. Perhaps a massive picnic table to seat over 12 people – we can help. We also create beautiful Memorial Benches which provide a fitting tribute to a lost loved one.

01429 890808

Post: 8a Park View West Industrial Estate, Hartlepool, Cleveland TS25 1PE | Email: sales@solidoakhardwoodfurniture.com @solidoakhardwoodfurniture_

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Outdoor Solutions

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Upgrade to teapigs. It’s tea, only better. As the hospitality sector begins to re-open, it’s vital to have an offering that will work hard for you to maximise your profit. Your tea offering is a key part of that. Serving quality tea is the first step to increasing tea sales. People are very happy to spend £3 on a good coffee in a café or restaurant because it’s different to the coffee they can make at home. Tea drinkers, on the other hand, aren’t as willing to pay for a cup of tea out of home if it’s going to be “just tea”; a cheap paper bag with hot water. Likewise, with the massive increase in staycation bookings in the UK this year, offering guests a dusty tea bag in their room or welcome pack is a no-no when many people have been enjoying more highquality products during lockdown. The demand for premium, whole leaf tea out of home is on the rise and research is showing that customers visiting cafes, restaurants, hotels and self-service accommodation in the coming months will be looking to treat themselves and will be expecting a higher quality beverage. Luckily, teapigs have you covered. Hurray!! teapigs is renowned as a mark of quality; we have a huge range of 34+ real, whole leaf teas available in different formats to suit all hospitality and catering needs. Our display jars, POS material and free tea school for staff and stockists will help you make the most of your teas and make it clear to potential customers that you’ve upgraded your tea offering ready for “the new normal”. But while restrictions lift, there is still some anxiety over fears of unnecessary contacts while out and about. With this raised concern, we’ve had lots of questions about how people should serve their tea. We recommend being aware of these three “touch points” 1) How’s the tea presented?

2) Where’s the water being boiled?

Rather than using a box of dusty teabags, change to something more hygienic. teapigs are able to offer individually wrapped envelopes that are perfect for self-service in rooms and a choice of display boxes to show them of. This means only the person making the brew needs to touch is the tea itself!

Hot water taps require less manual “refilling” so a great option for reducing touchpoints if you have one or are able to get one. Otherwise, make sure kettles and taps are cleaned and disinfected frequently. Hand sanitizing gel and gloves could also be offered in the area as an extra precaution.

3) What are people drinking their tea from? Finally, are you able to offer recyclable/ compostable takeaway cups? We have fab branded cups which will help your customers know you’re stocking the best tea around!

For FREE samples or to set up a trade account, call 0208 847 3980 or email trade@teapigs.co.uk today. Quote WELCOME. 24

Editor’s Choice

The smart keg technology transforming the pub and restaurant industry Although there are still strict COVID-19 restrictions in place, pubs and restaurants are now allowed to serve customers outdoors, which means that many people will be heading out for a celebratory meal and a pint. It’s not just the patrons that are celebrating; the hospitality industry can now breathe a small sigh of relief as they are able to conduct business (albeit on a smaller scale) once again. But, as the industry prepares to start selling once again, a number of keg thefts have threatened to stop it in its tracks. Earlier this month, 43 kegs were stolen from Arundel Brewery at Ford Airfield Industrial Estate. Even though the kegs were empty, the loss still amounts to more than £2,000 since each keg costs about £50. This is not just a problem in the UK; global keg losses are estimated to cost the brewing industry between £220m and £365m each year. With breweries and distilleries closed most of the year due to lockdown, keg losses are particularly distressing to suppliers and

pubs that have been hit hard by Covid-19 restrictions. As the hospitality industry re-opens, publicans, hoteliers, and restaurateurs are focused on reducing any unnecessary cost and waste. The causes of keg loss are not limited to theft. Wastage and loss can also occur due to: - Distributors gathering the wrong brewery’s kegs when collecting empty containers - Identification tags being knocked off - Tags rendered unreadable by wear and tear - Event organisers failing to return kegs - Stolen kegs being sold to scrap metal merchants The loss of kegs can add millions of pounds to annual capital costs for the industry, which is why those involved in the beer keg supply chain are turning to smart technologies for real-time tracking and visibility.

Editor’s Choice

The smart technology keeping beer kegs safe The best way to prevent theft, damage and poor handling of beer kegs is to increase the visibility of their location and condition throughout the supply chain. These days, kegs can be fitted with smart keg tracking sensors connected to the Internet of Things (IoT). Reporting information to a central management dashboard, these sensors offer real-time visibility of the entire keg fleet, at any time, from anywhere in the world. With both GPS and RFID technology, smart sensors not only track a keg’s location, but can provide a wealth of data on a keg’s current condition, including temperature, tilt, levels, tamper shock and movement. If there is a change in location or condition that could signify theft, accidental damage or tampering, the system will send an instant alert to any connected device. This means that swift action can be taken to remedy the situation.

Along with preventing keg loss, the data from a smart keg tracking system can also be analysed and used to optimise the beer keg supply chain efficiency. For example, a supply chain manager can identify and address common bottlenecks, thereby speeding up the supply process, reducing overheads and improving the customer experience. With total coverage, visibility and control, breweries, distilleries and the hospitality industry can prevent keg loss and have a better chance of remaining profitable in these trying times. Cheers to that!

About Smarter Technologies - Smarter Technologies tracks, monitors and recovers assets across the globe in real time, providing asset tracking systems to the open market and fulfilling the world’s most complex asset tracking requirements. Our services cover a vast array of business sectors, products and equipment from container or pallet tracking to military-grade devices; and can be used across a broad spectrum of industries.

scheduled maintenance and help businesses utilise their building’s efficiency, benefitting from real-time alerts and facilities management tools that will bring them into the 21st century. Head over to smartertechnologies.com to find out more.

As a leading IoT company, we also provide smart building solutions for modern businesses, offering wire-free, batterypowered and low-cost IoT smart sensor technology. Our solutions will put an end to

Editor’s Choice

Take control of your laundry Take 100% control of turnaround times, stocks and quality of finish by running your own on-premise towel laundry and cut laundry costs by 25-45%.

You can manage your laundry, analyse data, compile production reports and do everything remotely, in real time, from any device.

Girbau works with all types of hotels, spas and leisure facilities, supporting everyone from large hotel groups to small independent operators. It offers energy efficient, high productivity laundry equipment for the ultimate in-house laundry operation.

A smart-alerts system sends a text or email when there is any irregularity in how machines are working. Problems are solved quickly and effectively, optimising time and informing future operational decisions.

Girbau UK’s nationwide service operation has a team of experienced company-trained engineers and direct access to the factory for spare parts, allowing it to respond quickly to any urgent customer calls with high levels of first-time fixes. To find out more contact us today via Tel: 01462 427780 or visit our Website: girbau.co.uk or Email: sales@girbau.co.uk

For a small to medium-sized establishment, a towel laundry may be the best starting point. Girbau’s full range of washers, dryers and ironers ensures you have the right equipment for a truly professional finish for all your towels, bath robes, bed linen, table linen and you can even choose to offer a dedicated laundry service for guests. Designed to lower water and energy consumption while boosting productivity, Girbau HS washers feature automatic chemical dosing, high-speed spinning, unmatched durability and a high degree of programmability. HS washers’ high spin speed achieves a market-leading centrifugal spin force of up to 400G throughout the spin cycle to leave laundry with residual moisture levels of less than 50%. This very high water extraction ability offers significant energy and cost savings in the subsequent drying process. Girbau’s premium ED series dryers ensure all items including delicates are dried safely, uniformly, efficiently and costeffectively. Designed to be more energy efficient than any other conventional dryer, ED Series feature Girbau’s Transflow technology. This is a combination of both radial and axial airflow for maximum efficiency, reduced cycle times and lower energy costs. Cabinet insulation and a double-glazed door further optimise energy efficiency. The highly reliable and accurate humidity control system automatically senses when clothes are dry and activates the cool down process maximising energy efficiency and assuring textile care. The large drum’s unique Care Touch design and manufacture with no sharp edges prolongs linen life. The new Sapphire remote-control software from Girbau gives you easy, flexible and versatile control of your on-premise laundry.

Housekeeping & Laundry Equipment

UK’s first antimicrobial laundry product Launches using same technology as COVID-killing spray to kill germs on fabrics...

The UK’s first ever laundry product that eliminates germs and odour-causing bacteria on clothes between washes has launched. The unique product provides up to one month’s (or five wash cycles) protection against bacteria and germs on laundry, and uses the same antimicrobial technology proven to kill SARS-CoV-2 when sprayed on surfaces. Working in washes as low as 30 degrees, the product reduces the spread of disease in fabrics while also eliminating odour-causing bacteria, keeping clothes and other laundry fresher, and safer, for longer. It joins an antimicrobial cleaning spray and hand sanitiser as the third consumer product launched by the biotech cleaning company this year alongside its professional antimicrobial coating treatments. A first-of-its-kind laundry product that provides immediate and ongoing protection against many harmful germs and odour causing bacteria between wash cycles has been released in the UK. The product, from biotech cleaning company Zonitise, uses the same antimicrobial technology proven to eliminate SARS-CoV-2 after 6 weeks on surfaces, as tested by two of the world’s leading laboratories. Significant trials have proven that the antimicrobial protection of just 50ml of the product per full load of washing can protect for up to 1 month, keeping clothes and bedding smelling fresher for longer, but also massively reducing the risk of bringing home germs on clothing as the country opens up and people start mixing again. The product is available for members of the public and businesses here: zonitise.com/ product/antimicrobial-laundry-additive

Zonitise’s Antimicrobial Laundry Additive provides a constant barrier of protection on clothing, preventing germs from harbouring and being transmitted on fabrics, reducing the risk of disease being spread through bacteria on items such as clothing and bedding. The news is likely to offer peace of mind to parents of under-18s, the only age groups where cases have risen since schools reopened on the 8th March, and frontline workers exposed to COVID cases daily. A 500ml bottle of Zonitise’s Antimicrobial Laundry Additive is available at a launch price of £24.99 (normal price £35.99), enough for 10 loads of washing - or enough to last a typical household for up to 10 months. The Zonitise Antimicrobial Laundry Additive is hypoallergenic, non-bleaching, nontoxic, 100% free of perfumes and dyes, eco-friendly and suitable for any machine washable fabric. As well as being ecofriendly, it also kills bacteria at much lower temperatures compared to traditional washing (60 degrees Celsius plus is normally required to effectively kill germs), making it more energy efficient - but the unique point is that it continues to protect laundry in between washes. Zonitise also released Zonitise Surface, a spray which gives up to 60 days of protection against germs and harmful pathogens on all surfaces and touch points it is applied to, including SARS-CoV-2. Also launched in January was Zonitise Skin, an alcohol free hand sanitiser that gives up to eight hours constant protection from coronavirus, and 99.999% of bacteria after being applied to skin without drying them out.

Housekeeping & Laundry Equipment

Zonitise is a biotech and microbial control company, specializing in antimicrobial protection against bacteria, viruses, mould, mildew, and odours. Zonitise’s mission is to reduce cross contamination risk on surfaces, touch points and fabrics to keep people healthy. Zonitise antimicrobial coatings are used across the UK and have been professionally applied in many locations since the pandemic started last year. Zonitise protected surfaces can be found in many places including London City Airport, Gatwick Airport, schools, hotels, NHS health centres and even public transport. The coating has a proven efficacy to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 virus that comes into contact with any treated surface or touchpoint. Edward Tennent, antimicrobial consultant and director at Zonitise, said, “With the UK beginning its return to normality it has been great to launch the UK’s first Antimicrobial Laundry Additive. Our main focus with this unique product is infection prevention, especially in the healthcare sector. However we took the decision to make the product available to anyone as an additional layer of protection

on our clothing against the virus and many other harmful germs we may come in contact with. We have all been sanitising our hands and protecting surfaces to help reduce the spread, and now we can add a protective barrier to our clothes to ensure a safe return to the high streets, pubs, restaurants, gyms and other places that have been dearly missed over the last year. “Traditional laundry detergents clean clothes, but they are not as effective against germs and other bacteria, which can remain and multiply on clothes and laundry between washes. “The antimicrobial fabric technology in Zonitise Antimicrobial Laundry Additive binds to the clothes and remains active between washes. The technology essentially pops the outer cell membranes of micro-organisms that come in touch with it like a water balloon, effectively destroying unwanted microbes so they can’t cause odours and fabric damage, but also helping reduce the risk of bringing home any harmful germs your clothes come in contact with.”

Housekeeping & Laundry Equipment

Five food trends and how they are shaping new safety requirements The events of the pandemic have caused a fundamental reset in human behaviour and as the hospitality and catering sector know well, new food and beverage requirements have been shaped for the long-term.

1) A positive food safety culture

2) Takeaway packaging

Food safety culture is the way in which an organisation values their food safety, and it is vital that these values are shared by both management and employees.

From the rise in takeaways and collection services, through to eco-conscious consuming and ensuring a positive food safety culture, Kirstie Jones, environmental health expert at Navitas Safety, discusses five food trends that we can expect to see a lot more of.

A business with a strong and positive food safety culture demonstrates to its customers that safe food is essential and a commitment.

With restaurants and sit-down eateries closed for the majority of the last 12 months, businesses have needed to find new ways to continue working in a way that meets government guidelines without actually welcoming guests indoors.

As eager as businesses are to get back to work, it is important for them to keep in mind the changes that these industries are currently facing. It isn’t simply a case of improved hygiene standards, though this is crucial, too. Now, much more comes into play and businesses should be seeking to utilise the rise of these five food trends in order to catapult themselves to greater success and deliver a service that the consumer demands.

Poor food safety culture can result in food hygiene violations, which can lead to serious repercussions, for both the business and its customers. Particularly with doors of restaurants opening once again for outdoor eating on April 12, it is crucial for businesses to create a positive food safety culture. Businesses must actively consider presenting accreditations such as a Covid19 certification which will help customers to feel safer when returning to an establishment.

In order to remain open, many food businesses have adapted, and the industry has seen a huge influx in the number of takeaway and collection services. Whilst it may seem relatively simple, this doesn’t quite follow the same rules and regulations as sit-down restaurants. Takeaway packaging must ensure it has clear allergen labels. Each container must state the exact name of the dish and its contents and should be clear and readable. Although this is particularly important when serving consumers with allergies, this must be done at all times. As of October 2021, the UK Food Information Amendment will come into force, whereby data labelling is key. Pre-packed for direct sale products must be labelled with a description of the item, detailing the full ingredients listing. As such, any of the 14 key allergens must also be highlighted and be clear to see. Clear allergen labelling also provides consumers with confidence as well as traceability and transparency when it comes to the business selling the item. As well as this, to aid hygiene and cleanliness, all food should be decanted into strong and sturdy lidded containers that will not spill during transportation. Not only will this prevent mess, but it also reduces the possibility of contamination between foods. Although takeaway services appear much more casual, businesses and their employees must work to the same standard as they would in a restaurant. With regular hand washing and limited contact between foods, food containers and staff, this will prevent the spread of viruses, infection, and crosscontamination. With the coronavirus, it has been bought to the attention of everyone that viruses can remain on surfaces for up to 72 hours, proving the importance of regular cleaning and disinfecting. Public Health England have also recently announced the introduction of calorie and salt reduction targets for takeaway and eating out businesses, which will see a further need for clear labelling.

Editor’s Choice

3) Connected consumers and online ordering and booking If businesses are utilising online ordering services, all allergy information must be available to all customers at the point of selection. Whilst having this readily available would be beneficial, businesses may also provide this information verbally, although it is essential that the information given is accurate. Having allergy information available allows customers to make informed choices when deciding on their meal. To support this, customisable menus, or the ability to order online via an app can improve accuracy, efficiency and speed. As expected, following the coronavirus pandemic, businesses are now offering a contact-free service and are utilising the rise in digitisation with the use of online menus and the ability to order via an app. 4) Eco-conscious consuming via veganism and vegetarianism With the number of people adopting vegan and vegetarian diets and lifestyles, this is an important trend to consider, not just for 2021, but for the future, too. Whilst this may not seem a cause for concern in terms of hygiene, it can pose a greater risk of cross-contamination. Each dish should not be cooked in the same oils for instance or

ingredients stored in the same area of the fridge. To reduce and prevent this from happening, and to ensure there are no mixups, all meat, vegan, and vegetarian dishes should be separated within each order. Ideally, any allergen, vegan or vegetarian dishes should be delivered completely individually. However, where this isn’t possible, these orders should be placed on top and must be double wrapped, with all other orders underneath. 5) Sustainability Going digital not only speeds things up for all involved, but it also positively impacts the environment. With more customers and businesses focusing on making sustainable changes to their lives, reducing paper usage and singleuse plastic is almost essential. Following the need to digitise and automate the kitchen, paper-based safety trails are no longer needed, nor relevant. The average restaurant spends approximately £20 per month, per site, on paperwork printing costs alone. Embracing sustainable and digital processes would not just benefit the business by reducing costs, but it would also remove unnecessary paper and thus, waste for both the business and the consumer. Businesses should look to invest in innovative digital

Editor’s Choice

hardware and software that can record all data in a cloud-based system, eliminating the need for paperwork entirely. An integrated digital system allows businesses to monitor food safety effectively with watertight traceability and accountability, resulting in a reduction in food waste. It isn’t just about materials and going digital, though. Food businesses in particular need to work hard to ensure less food is being wasted. To do so, this may mean minimising menus as they work to reopen as well as encouraging consumers to recycle packaging properly and effectively if it is a takeaway service. A look to the future Although those are five trends that are prominent right now, I am sure that we will begin to see many more come to the forefront of the industry. When Covid-19 has been and gone, the impact it has had on the world will be around for the foreseeable, so it is important for brands to adapt and meet the newfound needs of consumers. To find out more about Navitas Safety and its digital food safety offering, please visit: www.navitas.eu.com

MIAMI CONTRACT.SANDERSONDESIGNGROUP.COM @CLARKE_CLARKE_INTERIORS

CALA wins 2021 Red Dot for high design quality The international jury has awarded CALA the distinction “Red Dot”, which stands for high design quality.

CALA, chair designed by Martin Ballendat for DIEMMEBI wins 2021 Red Dot for high design quality. Stackable, functional, eco-sustainable, high-tech: it is CALA, chair with 3D seat and backrest, the brainchild of Martin Ballendat. The multi-award-winning German designer known internationally for his design versatility – he has designed products not only for the office environment, but also for living environments and accessories – in his first collaboration with DIEMMEBI, manufacturer in the community world since 1983, he employed all his eclecticism to give life to a true innovation. So that to obtain an important recognition: Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021, Office Furniture and Office Chairs category. Seat available in different colours and frame, CALA stands out for its highly stackable reticular structure, which makes it the ideal product, a true must-have, of the office environment. But it is highly appreciated for its aesthetics and uniqueness in every contract and hospitality context. Minimalism, comfort, and functionality unite Ballendat and the Venetian brand. CALA best interprets a minimalistic and captivating style, linear yet attractive, with an eye to the future and environmentally friendly, as it is composed of recycled materials: metal from sustainable sources and “ReMade in Italy” certified second-life plastic.

product. Also for 2021 edition the roughly 50 jurors were once again true to the motto “In search of good design and innovation”. The international panel of experts comprises specialists from a wide variety of sectors has identified in CALA as being a formal quality, ergonomics and longevity product. CALA could be seen in the online exhibition on the Red Dot website (www.red-dot.org) from 21st June 2021. That date also marks the beginning of the Red Dot Design Week, during which this year’s award winners and DIEMMEBI will be celebrated online. While from 22nd June 2021, CALA will also be included in the exhibition “Design on Stage” in the Red Dot Design Museum Essen. Moreover the chair will be published in The Red Dot Design Yearbook 2021/2022, a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and trends in product design.

A remarkable milestone for DIEMMEBI, always committed to offer a good design

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0115 965 9030 info@contractfurniture.co.uk www.contractfurniture.co.uk

Introducing ‘Ready Built’ stone hearth ovens from Beech Ovens Beech Ovens is renowned worldwide for the spectacular finishes applied to their regular range of stone hearth ovens that are available in many different sizes and shapes – round, square, rectangular, Duck tall, custom; Wood-burning, Gas, or combination Wood/Gas.

stainless steel housing to suit your décor – shown is the handsome REC105E in Black with a stainless steel trim – arrives ready built to slot into your designated space under a suitable regular Extract hood.

Taking things a stage further, Beech has now developed its first ‘Ready Built’ Ovens. These include all the characteristics of regular Beech Stone Hearth Ovens, but for the first time, in addition to gas and wood-burning, they now offer a CE Approved Electric version in the ready built range.

Get cooking whether it’s Gourmet Pizzas, Fritata’s, breakfast items, Casseroles, Chicken wings & breasts, slow cooked Lamb Shanks, Planked Salmon, Oysters Rockefellers, Prawn skewers, Moules Mariniere, Bouillabaisse and many more items – the benefit of ready built models is that installation is quick and easy so you can get cooking your menu straight away.

7 widths of E-Series Ovens are available in 2 depths providing capacity to suit most size operations, plus you can choose a RAL colour finish of your own choice, or plain

For a full brochure with specifications and capacities please call 01895 272236, check out www.equipline.co.uk, or email hello@equipline.co.uk

Editor’s Choice

Now is the time to upgrade guest comfort with mobile keys and contactless check-in Travel is changing. Safety and convenience are now central to guest expectations, especially when choosing accommodation. An easy, cost-efficient upgrade to digital door security can help almost any hotel or rental property provide both. Keys have been part of hotel management for so long, that it’s easy to miss how much work they create. Check-in and -out have barely changed: They remain manual, resource-hungry and common customer service flashpoints. Nobody wants to begin their holiday in a queue. In 2019, 78% of travellers responding to a Travel Leaders Group survey wanted to see more self-service check-in*. This desire will only have grown. From a management point of view, switching manual keys for digital locking makes welcoming guests faster and more efficient. The business saves money and reduces workload. This will soon be the “new normal”**. And guests will notice — which translates to better reviews on search engines and OTA websites, repeat business and more direct bookings. “This quiet period, before mass travel restarts in earnest, may be the best time to refit and reopen to guests with a safe, contemporary, digital experience,” says Iñigo Aldalur at TESA. “The upgrade is more cost-effective and less invasive than many owners imagine.”

A unified, digitalized door solution improves the guest experience Designed for accommodation of almost any upgrade which unifies lock hardware and software in one system. A broad hardware range includes robust locks and in-room devices, all with modern aesthetics. Battery powered and wireless, they come in multiple finishes and designs. Guests use RFID credentials or mobile “keys” on their smartphone instead of mechanical keys. They open their room and common access doors, turn on lights and unlock a safe with one credential. It is simpler and almost cost-free to issue a key to every occupant. Hotel staff manage everything from one user-friendly interface. With real-time, remote control over all doors, they can react instantly to an incident, keeping guests satisfied during their stay. If any card is lost, a new one is quickly generated within the software, cancelling the missing one. There’s no need to change locks or waste time and money rekeying. System management is intuitive, with minimal training needed. Any staff member who handles a multitude of keys for rooms, common areas and services will find TESA Hotel a breeze. It saves hours of admin time. No 24-hour desk? No problem Leisure and business travellers crave the convenience of round-the-clock check-in and the safety of contactless arrival.

Safety & Security

TESA Hotel’s Check-In by PIN solution offers both. Guests can enter their room when reception staff are not present — perfect for small hotels which cannot afford 24/7 staffing. Management is simple: The system automatically sends an email with a guest’s PIN to open their room. The code automatically expires on scheduled check-out. One PIN is valid for opening the guestroom and any authorized common doors. Compatible locks with incorporated keypad are quick and wire-free to install. Real-time communication between system and locks is encrypted. The guest arrives without delays and settles in immediately. Affordable smartphone keys for guests The smartphone is an essential travel companion. Not only a means to communicate, but a boarding pass, payment card, map and more. Why not a room key, too? TESA Hotel offers a mobile key solution via the Openow app. Openow’s road-tested functionality and the chance to personalize it with a hotel brand brings mobile keys within reach for any property — not just global brands with multi-million dollar technology budgets. Openow manages every access into and around the hotel by smartphone. Beyond just guestroom doors, common areas, parking, the spa or gym may be unlocked by app. Travellers download the app and register via email. Their room assignment and virtual key arrive automatically.

Openow speeds up check-in and -out, because there is no need to collect or return a key-card. Staff can amend or cancel key validity anytime — extending check-out time remotely, for example. Hotel owners save the cost of keys, key-cards and 24-hour reception — cutting queues and plastics use. Reinventing check-in at hotels and holiday rentals TESA Hotel solutions have upgraded the guest experience at hotels, holiday apartments, campsites and farmstays worldwide including Harpazul, a new holiday apartment complex close to Galicia’s beaches. Stylish, wire-free electronic locks now secure its main access points, recreation areas and individual apartments. A Check-In by PIN solution makes guest arrival safe and stress-free. Booking confirmation and follow-up messages provide each party with a unique PIN to enter Harpazul; move through common areas; and access their room.

“This way we offer a better service to the customer because they don’t have to queue at reception,” says Harpazul’s Roi Casal. “It is as easy as sending the PIN via email.” Wireless, PIN-operated escutcheons complement the apartment aesthetics. These are also compatible with card and smartphone unlocking, if Harpazul introduce either option in future. Harpazul’s entire locking system is managed in real time via TESA Hotel software. Every lock can be controlled or monitored remotely. Freed from reception queues, staff focus on service. For Harpazul guests, the inconvenience of room keys is a distant memory — perhaps one reason these holiday rentals currently rate 4.8/5 on Google and 9.5/10 on Booking.com***. To learn more, visit the TESA website: campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/ tesa-hospitality *: costar.com/article/1844143891 **: traveldailymedia.com/app-freecontactless-check-in-is-the-new-normal ***: correct at April 2021; see harpazul.com

TESA is the user-friendly access control solution for hotels, tourist apartments, holiday rentals, campsites, farmstays and more. Learn more at: campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/tesa-hospitality

Safety & Security

How restaurants should prepare for a safe and successful return to business Whilst the reopening of restaurants and other eateries may still be a way off yet - to dine in at least - we’ve all learned over the past 12 months that being prepared is crucial in order to endure these difficult times. Jeremy Freedman, Managing Director of the UK’s most established contract manufacturer of individual wet wipe sachets, Guardpack, has provided his insight into exactly how restaurants can reopen with the utmost safety.

table service, consider how those two processes are going to work together, if at all. You may not need to focus on your takeaway service upon reopening, but if it serves as a lucrative addition to your business, then it will need to be properly re-integrated. Everything from crosscontamination to the potential for staff overcrowding must be considered.

Despite the recent re-opening of outdoor seating, the re-introduction of indoor dining brings with it a whole host of different safety issues. It’s imperative that all eateries are prepared to offer their service with streamlined safety when the time comes, and the following information will be of great help in this essential preparation.

It goes without saying that, without employees, there would be no business, so be sure to brief them comprehensively and with compassion. The same suggestions have been made about staff processes, such as symptom management, personal cleanliness, and food safety, but everyone is an individual, and should be given the opportunity to talk one-on-one to you. Your staff should all be briefed in full, well before the opening date, but you should also take the time to talk to them individually, perhaps when carrying out a Fitness To Work survey.

Do an Inventory Check Assuming your staff will be required to wear PPE, do an audit to ensure you know exactly what is needed and where. Whilst you don’t necessarily want to over-order, building a healthy supply of equipment is advisable in making sure you have the necessary equipment available at all times. It’s not only PPE that needs checking, however, as cleaning utensils, solutions and sundries will also be essential in creating a safe environment for staff and customers alike. If there is anything that could do with replacing or restocking, now is the perfect time to do it.

Putting Your Staff First

Call your employees, allow them to talk about their thoughts and feelings regarding the upcoming reopening and take their concerns seriously. This not only puts them at ease with talking to their boss about returning to work, but will help you when

Further to the above, you might also want to look into supplying your customers with disposable items of their own, such as individual wipes, complete with company branding. These are ideal for placing on tables, in bathrooms, and at entrances and exits. Independent eateries may be interested in investing in a low run of hand wipes, available in various options including biodegradable wipes in recyclable packaging - something offered by Guardpack to help cater to the needs of smaller businesses. Changes to Services If you’ve been operating takeaway services and are now looking to revisit your previous

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planning the reopening, because they may come up with concerns or potential problems that had been previously overlooked or unforseen. Re-evaluate Your Reopening Policy Whilst it’s certainly paramount that you go through the document, check for pests, deep clean, reorganise the staff room, and so on, you must also keep in mind the fact that things might change. This might be due to the speed of the vaccine rollout, or perhaps the mitigation of the risks of spreading new variants. Another thing to consider is that if your capacity has changed, your pinch points may have changed too. When speaking to your staff, they may introduce ideas or suggestions that you previously hadn’t thought of, so it’s worth keeping an open mind when reviewing this document. It’s understandable that we’re all keen to make a move in the direction of normality, but it’s also important that we take each day as it comes and ensure we’re following guidance as closely as possible. It’s been said over and over again, but the only way we’ll resume normal service is by trying our best to mitigate as many risks as possible, and staying vigilant until restrictions can be lifted further.

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Five staff training tips for bar hygiene By Hance McGhie, Chemisphere UK As the UK’s hospitality industry fires up again after many months of closures, refreshing your cleaning schedules and ensuring your team is well versed in hygiene practices has never been so critical.

1) Explain the “why” to new staff members

Engaged staff members, visible cleanliness and the use of the correct sanitising and cleaning products are key to instilling customer confidence after such a tumultuous year, so recapping on your policies is key.

Providing a manual or a lesson on your cleanliness processes are, of course, useful, but it’s even better to explain to staff why these things are critical, and equip them with the knowledge and a wider understanding of cleanliness and its importance.

Chemisphere has been at the forefront of bar hygiene for three decades. As well as offering a full range of tried and tested hygiene products that will ensure all on trade sites are fully cleaned and C19 free, we also offer free advice on the best methods to use to be totally compliant with any new regulations or cleaning schedules. It’s more important than ever that the industry sticks together to ensure the rejuvenation of the UK On Trade, so with this in mind, here are five tips on staff training to ensure strict bar hygiene standards are maintained;

As you welcome new members of staff to your team, it’s prudent to have a tried and tested training session with recruits, to instill excellent hygiene practices from the off.

You don’t need to blind the team with science, but letting them know how bacteria can grow, what bacteria and organisms can affect product quality and customer health and the importance of excellent sanitation for customer retention and confidence can help them to understand on a deeper level why you are strict about the processes you implement. And, after the Covid19 pandemic, it has never been so crucial to run a tight ship when it comes to cleanliness and hygiene.

This initial session is also a good time to show staff where to find all the equipment and cleaning supplies, and what products work with which area - and, of course, why! Any chemical hazards and other safety issues should be clearly explained. For extra peace of mind, you could draft up a one-pager with key points highlighted, for staff members to take home, take a picture of and keep for reference. There are lots of online courses that you can use for training sessions too, so it’s worth researching into options and investing into the right ones for your business and team especially if you sell or handle food or even cocktail ingredients etc. 2) Operate a “clean as you go” policy... You will no doubt employ the services of a professional cleaner to thoroughly clean the front of house and bar areas before opening each day, and starting off every morning with a clean venue is critical. However, it’s very important to instill a “clean as you go” policy with staff members, to ensure that your premises always look perfect. Having an effective clean as you go policy will minimise hygiene risks and any other risks to health or safety for staff members and customers. In essence, it ensures staff members tackle any spills or other issues straight away, and ensures that they take the time to continually clean throughout the day, wiping surfaces, and equipment, removing waste and tidying up after themselves immediately and at all times to make sure the bar, cellar, surfaces and all walkways are always clutter free and clean. 3) Systems galore - Draw up “how to” hygiene guides As well as operating a clean as you go policy, having strict systems for other areas of cleaning is a great idea. You can draw up easy to follow, clear how-to guides for beer line cleaning (even if you use a high tech system), closing the bar down, sanitising sparklers, washing glassware, cleaning the toilets, keeping the cellar immaculate, cleaning floors and front of house will help you - and your staff - be more confident when it comes to ensuring everything is done correctly and to a high standard. The guides can also include details of the products that should be used for each area of cleaning and any guidelines for using

Safety & Security

them safely. Having the systems clearly visible in the venue - and providing digital copies for staff members - can help employees to stick to the checklists clearly until they are well versed in your methods. This will also help staff members to crack on with tasks without having to ask for recaps or help - something that will help them feel more confident in the long run. 4) Allocate responsibility to team members for aspects of cleaning It’s important that younger or less experienced members of the team feel like they’re contributing to the overall running of the bar, so allocating areas of cleaning to certain members of staff can help them to take responsibility and become an “expert” in that area! Play up to skill sets; if someone is a tech whizz, let them be in charge of the beer line cleans using high tech apps and systems, and if someone is great at customer service, give them the front of house cleaning job so they can chat to customers and represent the venue in a positive, friendly manner. Remember to re-allocate the tasks to a new member of staff if a team member leaves the business. 5) Instill strict personal hygiene standards for all staff members Having high standards when it comes to personal hygiene is crucial, but these tasks do fall to individuals - so training them in areas such as hand washing and sanitising, cleaning uniforms, avoiding touching their faces, keeping their hair tidy and avoiding wearing certain pieces of jewellery is very important. These standards can be covered in the initial training sessions, but it is important to keep an eye on these aspects every day so customer confidence can be maintained. After all, your team members are on centre stage for customers, so their habits and appearance will have an impact on customer perception and retention. It goes without saying that bar managers, owners and landlords have a part to play, too. Keeping up to speed on new ideas and processes is important, as getting stuck in your ways won’t do your business any good. Keeping abreast of new technology, and having a working knowledge of new guidelines, new products and cleaning techniques is also crucial - as some of it will save you money, save you time, save waste and increase profits!

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Mama Shelter arrives in Rome The new address brings the brand’s playful spirit and colourful design to the Eternal City Mama Shelter is bringing its unique brand to Rome with the launch of Mama Roma, the group’s first address in Italy, scheduled to open in July 2021. Mama Shelter is the family-founded company that is disrupting the hotel scene with its eccentric, fun and accessible approach to hospitality. Founded in Paris in 2008 by the Trigano family (cofounders of Club Med), Mama Shelter offers its guests a mix of shared fun, affordability and exceptional service in cities and neighbourhoods with a unique story.

Mama Roma will be, at the same time, a hotel, a vibrant urban refuge, a gastronomic address for those looking for authentic flavours and a space for business, relaxation and fun, where different lifestyles and environments influence one another. At Mama Roma, the brand will be launching its first ever Spa, home to an indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam and minimalistic fitness centre. Attentive and extremely friendly service will also characterise the first Italian hotel of the brand.

Mama Roma will be located in the elegant Prati district, on the right bank of the Tiber river. From here the Vatican City - with its marvellous gardens, museums and Saint Peter’s Square - can be reached in a few minutes on foot, while the heart of the historic centre is just a few underground stops away. The large avenues, with their fin-de-siècle and art nouveau style buildings, refined boutiques and trendy restaurants and bars, give the district its unique character. Mama Roma…a promising movie star already in the 60s! What will soon be Mama Roma has been a protagonist of the famous scene from Dino Risi’s masterpiece movie Il Sorpasso (1962), in which the award-winning actor Vittorio Gassman whizzes through a sun-drenched, deserted Rome in search of a telephone on an August morning. In fact, over the years, the neighbourhood where the hotel will open has often been chosen as a film set, also due to its proximity to the Vatican and the stunning view of Rome.

The bold and cutting-edge design will be enjoyed by Mama Roma’s guests from upon entry into the hotel and the common areas, where mosaic floors and column capitals depicted on the walls meet the ceilings adorned with artwork by graphic designer and artist Beniloys, as well as contemporary geometric shapes throughout.

Generous and exquisite recipes of the typical Roman cuisine make up the varied menu of the Mama Roma restaurants, including delicious wood oven pizzas and Mama’s international signature dishes. The dining outlets - with their giant communal tables - invite conviviality and sharing, and will also be open to external guests through a separate access. Mama Roma will offer a magnificent rooftop, open from morning to late at night, for guests to relax, with an aperitif or simply share new memorable moments

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overlooking glorious views of the Eternal City and the St. Peter’s dome. The rooftop will be equipped with a solarium, and will offer an island bar with homemade cocktails, a beer corner and a hot kiosk for snacks, light meals and drinks. Spread over six floors, Mama Roma’s 217 rooms have been conceived by the group’s in-house design team, Mama Design Studio. All rooms boast a King Size bed, 5 Star Bedding, a 55” smart TV that can be controlled from a mobile phone and featuring a large selection of complimentary movies (including adult only), free Wi-Fi and organic bath products in collaboration with Absolution, the award winning French organic cosmetic brand. Mama Shelter’s signature masks of cartoon characters such as Spiderman and Darth Vader will hang on bedside lampshades bringing the brand’s playful character to the guest rooms. Serge Trigano, Founder of Mama Shelter, adds: “Rome is the ultimate magical city. Its history, miraculously and entirely preserved, seduces us at each corner of the street. And at the same time, the Romans have manners and a certain elegance which give it all its charm and its modernity. Since the beginning of Mama’s adventure, we dreamed of settling here and this will become a reality in the near future. Mama Roma will be located next to the Vatican and only three metro stops from the historical

city center. All aspects of our identity will be found in this Mama: the restaurants, the rooftop, the designed bedrooms, the colourful lobby and in addition: a spa and its indoor swimming pool. We have added a library to offer our customers a sample of the most magical Italian literature and art”. The brand’s beauty products, as well as T-shirts, hoodies, anti-Covid masks, candles, home fragrances and many other items will be available for purchase directly at the hotel, as well as on the eshop mamalovesyou.com. Two Ateliers - meeting spaces with a maximum capacity of 50 people - will be illuminated by natural light and equipped with the most advanced technology in terms of video conferencing, LED screens and BOSE speakers, as well as a minibar and coffee machine. In addition, the “Breakroom” will feature a giant table-football and an outdoor space to play ping pong and bocce – a ball game loosely related to British bowls and French pétanque, with a common ancestry from ancient games played in the Roman Empire. Mama takes care of everything, but first and foremost its guests’ and associates’ safety. In every Mama Shelter address new safety measures certified by Bureau Véritas have been implemented. To discover all the measures, please visit: mamashelter.com/covid-19/ Mama Roma accommodation rates start from 129€ per room, per night.

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European villas for long-awaited family reunions Handpicked family villas from the sunny shores of Greece, Portugal and The Balearics to Turkey’s shimmering turquoise coast

As European countries are showing signs of welcoming Britons back this summer, many families will be looking to reunite, travel and celebrate being together as soon as restrictions ease and we are able to travel abroad safely. Villa rental specialist Oliver’s Travels has a fantastic selection of familyfriendly properties for those looking to soak up the sunshine surrounded by loved ones. Families can make use of Oliver’s Travels’ helpful Concierge Service taking the hassle out of organising family holidays abroad. Oliver’s Travels’ friendly team can arrange a range of services including private chefs, food delivery, fridge stocking, childcare, spa treatments, airport transfers, car hire, travel insurance, tours and activities, maid service and much more. From a glorious Greek villa to an Ottoman style abode in Turkey, below are just a few of Oliver’s Travels’ properties fit for a summer family reunion. San Pedro, Algarve, Portugal – Sleeps 8 Guests Travel status: Currently pegged as green on the traffic light system. Situated on the prestigious Pine Cliffs Resort, this villa comes with spacious, private grounds allowing guests to combine a selfcatering villa holiday with access to facilities and activities at the five-star resort including golf, tennis and on-site kids’ clubs. Guests can tailor their holiday to be as interactive with others as they wish and enjoy al fresco dining on the large terrace area surrounding their private pool whilst children can play freely on the spacious lawn. Based in the pretty little coastal town of Olhos d’Agua, there are a multitude of restaurants located in the resort and in the surrounding area, offering freshly caught fish and international cuisine. Summer rates for a seven-night stay from £8,564. To book, please visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999. Villa Angele, Malta - Sleeps 9 Guests Travel status: Currently pegged as green on the traffic light system. With stunning design and fabulous architecture, this four-bedroom property offers the perfect family escape with teenagers. The villa boasts a private pool, gym, a giant outdoor chess set for budding chess players and amazing views over the charming town of Mellieħa and

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the glistening Mediterranean Sea. The villa is within walking distance of shops and restaurants, and guests can even charter a yacht for a day out on the water as an extra activity. With plenty of space in the communal areas and boundless entertainment options such as a pool table and a selection of books and DVDs, families can come together to enjoy their holiday in the Maltese sun. Summer rates for a seven-night stay from £4,537. To book, please visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999. Palma Rainbow, Mallorca - Sleeps up to 24 Guests Travel status: Currently pegged as amber on the traffic light system. New to the UK market and exclusive to Oliver’s Travels, Palma Rainbow offers a slice of authentic life, located just minutes from the heart of the beautiful capital Palma de Mallorca. This modern and impressive villa is spread across three floors with twelve individual bedrooms offering comfort, privacy and space for all. The lower ground floor boasts a fully stocked bar combined with an entertaining and lounging area, perfect for parents looking to enjoy an evening aperitif. The large dining area boasts views over the stunning Serra de Tramontana mountain range, with double doors leading out to the saltwater pool for guests to soak up the Mediterranean sun or dine alfresco with a barbecue day or night. The garden area is spacious and cemented, allowing youngsters to roam freely, and paddle in the seated shallow end of the pool. For those looking for active pursuits during their stay, there is also a gym with high-tech equipment and several cycle routes in the area. 2021 rates for a seven-night stay from £8,933. To book, please visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999. Villa Kaktus, Turkey - Sleeps 10 Guests Travel status: Currently pegged as amber on the traffic light system. This quirky four-bedroom Ottoman style villa is set in the peaceful fishing town of Kalkan on Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast boasting panoramic ocean views and a treasure trove of opportunities for families to immerse themselves in the local culture. In the surrounding area they can explore local markets, ancient ruins, and golden sandy beaches home to harbourside bars and rooftop restaurants serving a variety of delicious cuisine. The villa itself has a range

of activities to keep all the family entertained, with a gym and sauna on site, and a main pool with waterslides that feeds into an indoor pool providing children with hours of entertainment even when the sun goes down. The lush garden features two BBQs to indulge in alfresco dining, alongside a kid’s play area complete with a tree house and climbing wall. After an activity filled day, families can spend the evening curled up in front of a film in the villa’s cinema room. Summer rates for a seven-night stay from £5,602. To book, please visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999. Villa Thalassa, Crete – Sleeps 10 to 12 Guests Travel status: Currently pegged as amber on the traffic light system. Villa Thalassa is the perfect choice for families. Located in the village of St. Spyridon on the north-east coast of Corfu where horseback riding and boat trips are in abundance to keep families entertained. Nestled amongst four acres of secluded private gardens, the beach and a range of amenities are just a short stroll away. The bedrooms each come complete with a balcony where guests can enjoy the gorgeous sea views while making the most of the Corfu sunshine. Outside, the large heated private pool is perfect for a dip amongst peaceful surroundings, while youngsters may choose to challenge one another to a game of ping pong, play on the climbing frame, or make use of the onsite basketball net. Summer rates for a seven-night stay from £7,456. To book, please visit oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 7999. Current government travel guidelines correct at time distribution to media. Green listed countries will require travellers to take one pre-departure PCR test and one PCR test on or before the day of their return to bit fit to fly but they will not be required to quarantine on return. Travellers returning from amber listed countries will need to quarantine at home for ten days and take a PCR test on day two and day eight of this quarantine period in addition to the PCR test required for pre-departure. Amber listed countries are subject to review for being added to the green list from 28th June 2021 when a further announcement is due. Arrivals from red countries must quarantine for ten days in government managed hotel quarantine. The above green/amber destinations are based on recent media predictions ahead of the finalised traffic light which is now scheduled to be announced by the UK government in early May.

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Introducing Great Plains’ New Tembo Plains Camp, Zimbabwe New five-star accommodation in the Sapi Reserve to open August 2021

Great Plains, the iconic eco-tourism company is thrilled to announce the much anticipated Tembo Plains Camp, scheduled to open on 1st August 2021. The new Zimbabwean opening is located on the private 118,000-hectare Sapi Reserve, whose northern border is over 40kms of the Zambezi River. The well-known Mana Pools Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms the Sapi Reserve’s western border. With four spacious guest tents, an exquisite two-bedroom family unit and a private guide tent, Tembo Plains Camp will be ideal for couples, families, multi-generational travellers, and those looking for an exclusive personal safari experience. The beautiful family unit, with interiors designed by Great Plains co-founder Beverly Joubert, comprises two tents with a shared lounge and dining area and pool and will accommodate up to four adults, two adults and two children 6 and up. Each guest tent offers an indoor lounge and outdoor dining area, private plunge pool and exercise bikes, in addition to expansive en-suite bathroom facilities,

indoor baths, showers and double vanities. Guests have access to professional Canon cameras and Leica binoculars throughout their stay to capture the many special holiday moments. “When I designed Tembo Plains Camp, it was with a view to reference the famous Great Zimbabwe ruins but not lose sight of our love of canvas and exploring. So we ended up with a unique combination of canvas and stone walls. The semi-circular walls inside each tent isolate the bath and shower from the bedroom and indoor lounge areas bringing that architectural reference inside. Outside, this pack-stone wall design continues along the back of the guest bedroom, and that really gives you a greater sense of privacy, often an issue in tents. I didn’t want a completely ‘built room’. Hence, the front has these uninterrupted views of the Zambezi flowing just meters away from the canvas ‘tented’ portion,” commented Dereck Joubert, Great Plains CEO. “Tembo”, meaning elephant, pays tribute to the animals frequently seen around Tembo Plains Camp along with painted dogs, buffalo, lions and leopards. The Sapi Private Reserve borders the Mana Pools National Park and is recognised as one of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations today. Twitchers will be spoiled for choice as Tembo Plains is situated in a prime birdwatching country, ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Activities at Tembo Plains include day and night wildlife-viewing drives, walking safaris, canoeing and boating on the Zambezi River. “For me, the combination of activities allows for that unbelievable, youthful question: “what should we do today?” and the endless possibilities this implies. Do we canoe, walk, drive, sit at a hide, stay in, have a massage? This is one of the finest places for endless possibilities I know,” said Dereck Joubert. Tembo Plains will join the Réserve Collection of camps, the highest-level brand at Great Plains, alongside sister properties Zarafa Camp, Selinda Camp, Duba Plains in Botswana, and Mara Nyika, Mara Plains and ol Donyo Lodge in Kenya. Tembo Plains will be a proud member of Relais & Châteaux – the only camp in the whole of Zimbabwe given this honour. Nightly rates in the new family unit at Tembo Plains starts from $ 3,248/ £2,347*; a guest tent at the new Tembo Plains begins from $1,160/ £838* per person per night. Prices based on today’s exchange rate

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Travel 51

Tuscany Now & More launches new culinary experiences Celebrate Italian cooking from the comfort of your luxury villa...

Tuscany Now & More is delighted launch new culinary experiences for summer 2021. These gourmet adventures have been designed to bring Italian food to life and provide guests with an immersive holiday centred around the joys of Tuscan cooking. The villa rental company is introducing three cooking courses across a selection of their luxury villa rentals in Italy: Italian Classics for Vegetarians, Nonna’s Traditional Italian Recipes and The Art of Pasta Making. Despite being a country renowned for its pizza and pasta, these cooking classes will ensure that healthy, plant-based, and gluten-free recipes are available to try. With research showing that families and friends are looking for secluded holiday destinations this year, this new offering ensures that guests ‘bubbling’ in their villa can still fully enjoy the Italian culture and lifestyle – which starts with food. Tuscany Now & More offers the most exquisite rental properties, each with their own renovation story to tell throughout Tuscany and beyond. These foodie

experiences are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what is on offer – including hot-air balloon rides over Tuscany, cycling through traditional villages and towns, local farmer’s market tours and truffle hunting. Nonna’s Traditional Italian Recipes at Il Cortile Pratolino ‘Nonna’ means ‘Grandmother’ and these traditional Italian recipes have been designed to introduce guests to a collection of dishes that celebrate culinary customs and have been passed down from generation to generation. Chefs will explore more than just cooking with stories, traditions and anecdotes that honour Italy’s cuisine. Through a series of hands-on classes, demonstrations and a selection of tasting evenings, food fanatics will uncover the secrets that transform fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients into flavourful regional specialities, and cooking methods and techniques every great Italian ‘Nonna’ uses. Throughout the course of the week, guests will learn how to make traditional appetisers, hand made pizza, seasonal primi (first courses), hearty secondi (second courses) such as Polpette, and local desserts including Tiramisu and Cantucci. Il Cortile Pratolino will be offering ‘Nonna’s’ cooking classes - a beautiful eight-bedroom 18th-century farmhouse set on a hilltop near Florence on the Monti del Chianti hills. A shaded seating area overlooks the garden, and the broad lawn leads to the spectacular swimming pool from which guests can soak up the stunning views. The villa boasts a well-equipped kitchen and dining table which sits 15 people, along with a dining loggia and a barbeque. Here guests will also receive an overview of Tuscan meats and seasonal recipes, instructions on how to identify grains and cook breads, and local experiences are available including a visit to a nearby cheesemaker. This eight-bedroom property sleeps up to 15 people. Offering Il Cortile Pratolino and its cooking experience from £11,376 per week. Italian Classics for Vegetarians at I Corbezzoli This course has been designed to introduce guests to a collection of vegetarian recipes that stay true to Italy’s culinary heritage and cooking traditions. Guests will be embark on a spot of ‘peasant cooking’ whipping up

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‘Ribollita’ which used to be known as the ‘cuisine of the poor’ –now considered a flavourful, nourishing and more importantly, delicious soup. Additional dishes include Panzanella, Parmigiana, Focaccia Breads, Vegetarian Pastas and Crespelle – the ‘Italian crepe’ – a Florentine dish that is often filled with Ricotta and Spinach. Vegies staying at the fully staffed I Corbezzoli could not be more comfortable with eleven ensuite bedrooms, a private swimming pool, heated jacuzzi and a stunning view over the vineyards, woodland and olive groves of the Chianti region. This villa is perfect for large groups looking to improve their appreciation of vegetarian Italian cuisine. This eleven-bedroom property sleeps up to 22 people. Offering I Corbezzoli and its cooking experience from £18,075 per week. The Art of Making Pasta at Villa d’Elsa This culinary offering is an Italian cooking must, purely concentrating on the Italian artform of pasta making. Guests can learn the Italian tradition, making over eight different hand-made pasta types and the secret to pairing pasta textures, fillings, and sauces. The course will cover dishes such as Pappardelle, Raviolini and the thick noodlelike pasta, Pici. By the end of the week pasta makers will know how produce a range of Italy’s regional recipes including Pici Cacio e Pepe, Pappardelle al Ragù, Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli and Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Villa d’Elsa is a beautiful Chianti villa and will be offering pasta-making classes throughout the summer months. The property features a private infinity swimming pool, furnished bedrooms, and hot tub. Beautifully lined with cypress trees and with a view of incredible Italian sunsets, this villa is ideal for a culinary escape to paradise. Here guests are also invited to participate in two more local experiences: a farmers’ market tour and truffle hunting on the estate’s grounds with a truffle hunter and dog in tow. This seven-bedroom property sleeps up to 14 people. For more information, please visit: Tuscany Now & More (tuscanynowandmore.com, 020 7684 8888) offering Villa d’Elsa and its cooking experience from £11,256 per week. For further information and bookings, please contact tuscanynowandmore.com or call 0207 684 8884.

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Coming up next month in our June Issue, features on: Coffee • Interior Design & Décor EPOS • Uniforms & Workwear

As per usual we will be running our monthly editorial features on hotel openings, industry news, advice articles and travel locations. If you would like to send us editorial content to be considered for submission then please send information to carol@warmwelcomemagazine.com. The closing deadline for the June’s issue is 17th May.

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