Warm Welcome Magazine - September Issue

Warm Welcome Magazine

www.warmwelcomemagazine.com - September Issue

Hotels . Travel . Bars & Pubs . Food & Drink Restaurants . Health & Lifestyle . Shows & Events

The Evolution of Hospitality Online Ordering in a Covid Era Turn to page 16 & 17

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CONTENTS

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16

Hotels

Technology

28

40

Editor’s Choice

Travel

To feature in an upcoming issue or to discuss advertising opportunities please contact a member of the Warm Welcome team; Advertising Requests Dean Little - 01227 314 324 dean@warmwelcomemagazine.com Editorial Requests Katie Sirdefield - 01227 314 324 katie@warmwelcomemagazine.com Newsletter Requests Marc Hebden - 01227 314 324 marc@warmwelcomemagazine.com

Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill reopens focusing on safety and wellbeing Following the reopening of The

Churchill Bar & Terrace, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill announces its path forward to welcome back guests and customers, resuming hotel operations on 7 September 2020 with a focus on safety first and wellbeing always.

As an extension of Hyatt’s recently announced Global Care and Cleanliness Commitment, Hyatt is collaborating with medical experts and trusted industry advisors to fine-tune reopening and operating procedures such as colleague reorientations, enhanced cleaning and safety protocols, and a Hygiene and Wellbeing Leader at every property. Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has been accredited as Covid-19 Confident by AA. The AA Covid Confident assessment scheme was launched by leading hospitality organisation, AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, in response to the pandemic.

The accreditation promises guests that the hotel, and all outlets, has in place the necessary risk assessments, safety measures and staff training to reopen safely.

“The most important element of welcoming back guests and colleagues is doing so safely, which is why we have introduced enhanced measures at every touchpoint of the hotel that go beyond cleaning protocols to advance care across our entire hotel experience for our guests, World of Hyatt loyalty members

and colleagues,” said Arnaud de SaintExupéry, Area Vice President / General Manager.

“The challenges that we have faced these last few months, endured by all those in the hospitality industry, have been unprecedented and incredibly difficult.

As we continue to weather the storm with an uncertain outlook ahead of us, we are reminded that adversity was familiar territory for British wartime leader Sir Winston Churchill, after whom the hotel was named. Famous for inspiring hope, unity and determination during times of great hardship in his era, we draw on Churchill’s spirit of resilience as we reopen our doors. We are looking forward to welcoming back our guests and colleagues safely and continuing to build on the legacy of Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill in London”, commented Arnaud de Saint-Exupéry.

Beyond Safe and Clean, New Guest Experiences A wide range of new measures and protocols have been implemented in the hotel, from traffic flow signage and hand sanitising stations, to taking guest temperatures on arrival and keeping rooms vacant for 72 hours between guests. Going beyond these initiatives, with creativity and care Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill is giving guests and members greater control of their hotel journey and focusing on a more

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holistic sense of wellbeing from pre-arrival to checkout and beyond. The hotel is reimagining places and spaces to make social distancing not feel that way, striking the right balance of connection and space.

Wellbeing Where You Are: The

true fulfilment of Hyatt’s purpose of care is wellbeing. Through a new, exclusive collaboration with Headspace, guests, members and colleagues can access mindfulness exercises, guided meditations and sleep content. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s privileged access to Portman Square Garden and its tennis court, overlooked by the hotel. The leafy gardens offer a tranquil haven for a picnic, stroll or yoga. Furthermore, Hyde Park, one of the greatest city parks in the world, offers cycling, running, boating and swimming only steps away.

Less Contact, More Care: Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has implemented enhanced digital amenities to help give guests more control over how they connect with the hotel during their stay. This includes QR codes display menus to browse options at The Churchill Bar & Terrace and The Montagu Kitchen via mobile phone, room service available as a knock-and-go service and contactless checkout, whereby guests can review their invoice on their in-room TV or World of Hyatt app, with a key drop box at reception.

Feeding the Senses: Exceptional food and beverage

experiences have always been fundamental to Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill and a crucial part of the excitement of travel. The Churchill Bar & Terrace reopened on 7th July, 2020 with an entirely redesigned outdoor terrace that features original artwork of Winston Churchill. An elegant year-round venue to enjoy craft cocktails and a handpicked selection of cigars, the bar also reopened with a new gourmet burger menu. New measures at the bar allow guests to safely socialise, including reduced capacity to allow for social distancing, a one-way flow of traffic and table service only. A name and contact number are securely recorded for each booking to support the government’s track and trace initiative.

Curated with Care: Guestroom décor and amenities will be curated to remove some extraneous high-touch items, while still providing the high quality experience for which Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill is known, including engaging art and distinguished design. Collateral has been removed from rooms, with information available instead via the in-room TV system.

Similarly, in The Churchill Bar & Restaurant and The Montagu Kitchen, decorative table items have been removed.

Unprecedented Flexibility: As part of Hyatt’s new extended cancellation policy, most reservations booked at Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill from 1st July 2020 and beyond via Hyatt channels – for any future arrival date through 31st July 2021 – can be cancelled at no charge up to 24 hours before scheduled arrival on hyatt.com or via the World of Hyatt app. This includes Advance Purchase Rate reservations. See here for terms and some exceptions.

Caring for Colleagues: At Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, the wellbeing of colleagues is core to advancing care for

guests and customers. In response to COVID-19, Hyatt has also reimagined the colleague journey at all Hyatt hotels, including Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, to include new work procedures, colleague resources, and reorientations, in an effort to ensure colleagues’ safety and wellbeing. Daily colleague surveys have been introduced to measure colleague comfort and wellbeing, enabling hotel leaders to address opportunities, make adjustments as necessary and meet colleagues’ needs in real time.

As part of Hyatt’s Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has established a Hygiene & Wellbeing committee, responsible for ensuring the hotel adheres to Hyatt’s new operational guidance and protocols. The Hygiene & Wellbeing committee will help maintain the hotel’s mandatory GBAC STARTM accreditation, including a cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention program that will focus on establishing hotel environments that are sanitary, safe and healthy.

The new hotel colleague journey at Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill also includes the following: - All employees will have undergone a comprehensive COVID-19 induction and training programme before returning to work - Daily temperature checks of all colleagues are performed and recorded before entering the hotel - Social distance guidance and additional hand sanitiser stations implemented in colleague areas, including new signage - To avoid congestion at entry points to the hotel and back of house areas, staggered shift times for employees and contractors implemented where possible - Housekeeping teams are equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when cleaning, for both their own and guest safety, with PPE measures required by other departments based on job duties - Colleagues and guests are separated via a Plexiglas screen at reception for both their safety - Colleagues are wearing masks

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Dukes London Reopens with welcome back offer

Dukes London is delighted to

announce that it has re-opened for business on the 3rd September - with an incredible offer to welcome back loyal guests and first-timers alike.

Dukes London - an Edwardian country house in the heart of Mayfair - is redolent of a time when artists and writers rubbed shoulders with royalty in fashionable St. James’. Its elegant rooms and suites with antique furnishings and the warmth and attention-to-detail of its service make for a wonderful city break right in the heart of the capital – minutes’ from Buckingham Palace, The Royal Academy, Fortnum & Mason, Green Park and the multiple attractions of the area, all waiting to be enjoyed without the usual crowds.

The hotel has always prided itself on the closeness of its partnerships with the many Royal Warrant holders in St James’ including apothecary D R Harris, parfumier Penhaligons, the bespoke tailors Benson & Clegg, Lock & Co. hatters, Truefitt & Hill barbers,

Berry Bros. wine merchants, the iconic Fortnum & Mason and the artisan chocolatier Prestat. These friendships allow – where possible – private and behind-the-scenes access to some of the finest Mayfair goods and services – a privilege for the hotel’s guests.

Additionally, Dukes enjoys preferential access (where tickets are available) to the current exhibitions at the Royal Academy – just a five minute walk from the hotel – including currently The Summer Exhibition and the hero show ‘Gauguin & The Impressionists’ (until 18 October).

There is no better time to plan a trip to the heart of historic and cultural London, catching up on much that we have missed during lockdown, but without the usual crowds.

During its reopening, Dukes will be offering a reduced restaurant service, and GBR (Great British Restaurant) will remain closed. However, breakfasts, afternoon tea and light dinners will

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all be available both in-room and in the very-English drawing room. For breakfast choose from continental pastries, healthy yogourt, fruits and granolas, or eggs (poached, scrambled, as omelettes or pancakes). An all-day menu will also run from 11 am to 10pm including the famous DUKES fish & chips, rib-eye steak, hot and cold sandwiches, soups and salads and fresh fruit or indulgent desserts. Traditional cream tea and savoury afternoon tea will also be available as usual.

Charming outdoor picnics at neighbouring Royal Parks, Green Park or St James’s Park, can also be arranged for both guests and non-guests throughout autumn. There are various options – including one for your dog and all include a plush picnic rug and wicker hamper with the finest British picnic essentials.

Dukes Bar is currently open five days a week – from Tuesday to Saturday and 3pm-10pm, with a reduced capacity and walk-in basis only: no bookings available.

From 14th September the bar will extend its opening hours Monday-Saturday 3pm – 11pm.

Of course, the hotel is at pains to comply with all social distancing requirements – including a one-way system where possible, and rigorous sanitisation of all high touch points, and rooms.

For more information please call 020 7491 4840 or visit www.dukeshotel.com.

All bookings made can be cancelled without penalty up to 7 days prior.

Bookings that require alteration within 7 days of booking may be postponed and the hotel will do all it can to be as flexible as possible, understanding that the current situation is unpredictable.

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Clean, reliable and flexible - IHG® enhances ‘Meet with Confidence’ for peace-of-mind planning in an unpredictable world

As the world adapts to new

expectations and plans for responsible gatherings, IHG® has enhanced its Meet with Confidence programme to provide appropriate and creative meeting and event solutions, without compromising on the experience or the flexibility that meeting planners require.

IHG Hotels & Resorts have been delivering True Hospitality in meetings and events for decades and have meeting space available in most destinations around the globe. IHG is now combining this wealth of knowledge, with industry best-practices and the expertise behind the IHG Way of Clean, to bolster the global Meet with Confidence commitment.

Prioritising guest safety and wellbeing, while also providing flexible booking during uncertain times, Meet with Confidence means meeting planners and attendees can rest assured that meetings and events at IHG hotels worldwide will adhere to leading cleanliness and safety practices through outdoor spaces where possible • Tables and chairs disinfected before every meeting or event and during breaks

• Management of attendee flow with signage and staggered breaks where possible • Enhanced food handling and service guidelines • Hand sanitiser stations throughout the meeting and event space • Technology solutions to support virtual and hybrid meetings • Meet with Confidence checklist and pre-event inspection with the meeting planner or on site contact • IHG Way of Clean - strengthened procedures throughout the hotel to redefine cleanliness and support guests’ wellbeing, from enhanced cleaning of high-touch areas to social distancing measures.

Derek DeCross, SVP, Global Sales, IHG commented: “We’re seeing a number of organisations currently, or looking forward to, holding safe and responsible meetings and events.

To support this, IHG is offering meeting planners peace of mind and adaptability in these uncertain times.

The Meet with Confidence programme combines a laser focus on cleanliness as well as flexibility where it’s needed most.

Whether it’s for a 10-person meeting, an intimate wedding or a virtual global conference, with more than 5,900

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properties in over 100 countries, our diverse family of brands provides exceptional spaces to ensure every meeting, event, or celebration is unforgettable.”

Meet with Confidence also offers maximum flexibility allowing meeting planners and group decision-makers to book with confidence. This offer, available at participating hotels, includes: • No Cancellation Fees • No Attrition Fees for rooms that are not booked • Up to a 5% rebate towards the master bill • Short-form contract (at participating hotels) • IHG Business Rewards points applicable for the standard qualified bookings (Terms & Conditions apply) The flexible Meet with Confidence booking terms apply when booking 10 to 50 rooms on peak (with or without a meeting room) at participating hotels for bookings before 31 December 2020, with meet or stay dates by 30 June 2021.

To find out more, head over to www.ihgplc.com or call us on +44 (0) 1895 512000

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Radisson Hotel Group lands two brands under one roof at London Heathrow

Radisson Hotel Group is pleased to

announce the introduction of two new and exciting brands at London Heathrow, joining forces under one roof.

It also brings the first-ever Radisson branded hotel to the UK. The property features one wing with 258 bedrooms showcasing the bold and playful design of Radisson RED. The other bedrooms – more than 600 – follow the Scandinavian-inspired Radisson brand style, nodding to the hotel group’s heritage. Family rooms with bunk beds able to accommodate up to four people are featured at both brands.

On arrival, guests are greeted by a stylish and contemporary lobby, designed for socializing, working or relaxing. The restaurant, lounge and bar, shared by both hotels, provide enticing spaces to start the fun of a holiday or unwind after a long day. Additionally, there is a separate reception area for the exclusive use of airline crews.

extremely exciting. This is our first Radisson and second Radisson RED hotel to open in the UK, which marks a major milestone for the company. The extensive transformation of the property meets the ever-changing and growing needs of our diverse customer base.”

Radisson RED London Heathrow features an executive lounge offering complimentary drinks and refreshments in a vibrant setting.

An existing large conference and events space is flexible to suit a wide variety of group sizes and requirements. It has two multi-purpose conference centres and 41 meeting rooms, including 21 syndicate or breakout rooms.

Tom Flanagan Karttunen, Area Senior Vice President Northern & Western Europe, Radisson Hotel Group said: “Introducing two new and vibrant brands to such an important international airport location is

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To kick-start or wrap up a long day of travelling or meetings, guests can visit the Pace Leisure Club, featuring a gym, swimming pool, sauna and steam room.

Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre London Heathrow and Radisson RED London Heathrow are a short drive from Heathrow Airport, making it an ideal option for guests looking for a relaxing night’s stay before or after their holiday.

The location is also perfect for business travelers visiting London or looking for a multi-purpose meeting and events space in the area. Radisson Hotel Group’s highest priority is the continued health, safety and security of our guests, team members, and business partners. In May 2020, we announced our Radisson

Hotels Safety Protocol in collaboration with SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company.

Additionally, Radisson Hotel Group supports the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC)’s ‘Safe Travels’ health and safety protocols and stamp to create consistency across the Travel and Tourism industry.

Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to focus on a work/life balance and find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. Committed to building meaningful relationships with guests, we have a Yes I Can! service attitude to ensure satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, a global loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Radisson is part of Radisson Hotel Group, which also includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

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LG unveils innovative face mask that is a wearable air filter

LG has showcased their latest

app (Android/iOS) when the filters need to be replaced for peak performance.

And because every component of LG PuriCare Wearable – from the filters to the ear straps – is replaceable and recyclable, it’s an environmentally responsible solution as well.

The mask is made entirely from recycled material and follows the common themed mask of having elastic straps along with a filter that sits over your mouth and nose.

“The PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier is an exciting addition to our growing lineup of products designed to deliver meaningful health and hygiene benefits,” said Dan Song, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “At a time when consumers are seeking ways to make life safer and more convenient, it’s important that we’re able to offer solutions that add measurable value.”

healthcare gadget with release of a battery powered wearable air filter. LG has created a solution for inconsistent homemade masks or disposable masks that are in short supply around the world.

LG has not stated that this mask will protect you from COVID-19 but the impressive spec on this mask’s filter blocks over 99% of airborne particles according to their latest press release.

What’s more, LG’s innovative personal air solution comes with a case that helps maintain hygiene between uses.

Equipped with UV-LED lights that kills harmful germs, the one-of-a-kind case can even charge the mask and sends a notification to the LG ThinQ mobile

For IFA 2020, LG will present a virtual exhibition throughout the month of September featuring its latest innovations including LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier. Visit www.lg.com/exhibition for more information.

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What you can expect during your stay

PRE-ARRIVAL MESSAGING You will receive prearrival communications with your reservation details and an explanation of the CleanStay programme.

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2 CONTACTLESS & ENHANCED CHECK-IN

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Honors members can use Digital CheckIn and Digital Key through the Hilton Honors app to bypass the front desk and go straight to your room. Non-Honors guests will notice enhanced cleaning and hygiene standards at the front desk.

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GESTURES OF HOSPITALITY Along the way, you may encounter team members welcoming you and demonstrating hospitality while staying respectful of social distancing.

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As you approach the elevator, you will see a hand sanitising and disinfecting station for added peace of mind. Additionally, you’ll notice that elevators are being cleaned more frequently, with disinfecting wipes available for your use.

CLEANSTAY ROOM SEAL As you approach your room, you’ll see that it has been sealed by housekeeping after deep cleaning and disinfection. The seal confirms no one has accessed the room since being cleaned. .

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When you visit the fitness center, you will notice that the equipment has been arranged to accommodate social distancing. You’ll also see increased availability of disinfectant wipes with signage on proper use.

10 CONTACTLESS CHECK-OUT When it’s time to check-out, you can do so either directly through the Hilton Honors app or simply by calling the front desk.

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As you walk through the lobby, you’ll notice that seating has been arranged to accommodate social distancing.

You will see our team members cleaning and disinfecting the lobby more frequently. Signage encouraging social distancing and explaining the CleanStay programme will also be placed throughout the lobby.

ELEVATOR CLEANING & SANITATION STATION

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FITNESS CENTER

LOBBY SEATING, SIGNAGE & ENHANCED CLEANING

DEEP-CLEANED ROOM As you move through your room, you will see a clean top of bed that has been washed at high temperature after every stay (a long established Hilton standard), messaging on mirror clings that outlines extra cleaning and disinfection for “hightouch areas,” a sealed TV remote control and disinfecting wipes. You will also notice that printed collateral and materials have been removed from the room.

FOOD & BEVERAGE EXPERIENCE For meals and beverages, you will experience seating arranged to accommodate social distancing, order from sanitised (or singleuse) menus, and notice special attention to cleanliness and hygiene. Certain of our hotel brands will feature to-go breakfast offerings to minimize contact. If you order room service, you will experience contactless delivery, with orders and single-use serviceware placed outside your door.

HOTEL SHUTTLE If you use the hotel shuttle, you will see disinfectant wipes and communications that outline the frequency of shuttle interior hot spot disinfection and cleaning by the driver.

What you can expect during your stay

The evolution of hospitality online ordering in a Covid era

Prior to 2020 hospitality was

booming, however, due to recent events the industry has become one of the most hard-hit sectors of the Covid pandemic. Restaurants, cafĂŠs, pubs and any businesses that serve in-house food and drink have been hit hard by plummeting sales due to forced closure followed by a lack of customer confidence to return to their establishments since the easing of lockdown. This has led even the most traditional businesses to try and weather the storm by adapting to the shift in customer demand through contactless ordering and home delivery of their food and drink.

Technology is playing a key role in the change of hospitality operations with existing software and hardware being adapted to fit these new functions, paired with the requirement for new technology to meet the growing demand.

The changing face of Hospitality POS Systems: Traditionally, hospitality establishments used a centralised

intelligent ordering system, linked between the front of house and the kitchen to feed orders for preparation, connecting tablet devices, handheld terminals or a stand-alone POS terminal to the kitchen via wired or cloud network. However, with the inclusion of online ordering directly from guests in the front of house and takeaway options, businesses are looking at either costly updates to their current setups or to introduce additional ordering systems which can result in further hardware screens or printers in a kitchen.

Many businesses are also looking into third party delivery platforms as a low cost way to increase a business’ customer base. However, with it comes additional pressure for the fast delivery of high quality food to maintain customer satisfaction in comparison to local competitors.

As kitchens become busier with the volume of traffic from internal front of

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house and external delivery drivers, it is more vital than ever that prepared food is labelled and documented for its safe transfer to the customer. Traditionally, this takeaway order information was either a hand written note or a printed receipt that was attached to the food contents packaging. However, this is not always accurate, as information could be incorrectly documented or unattached and even lost.

Businesses are looking to print sticky label alternatives for their orders to improve precision. Traditionally, label media comes as fixed label lengths, limiting the amount of content which can be added per label, often resulting in multiple labels to display information. Traditional labelling is also limited by the number of labels per roll due to the silicon backing paper it is attached to. However, recently there is a great growth in popularity of linerless labelling, a cost-effective and flexible temporary or permanent sticky adhesive labelling solution.

Linerless labelling is enabling food preparation and delivery: Characterised as pressure-sensitive labelling, with a special release coating applied on the face of the label without the need for a silicon liner, linerless labels are available in a range of adhesive strengths depending on the required application. Linerless labels also provide up to 40% more labels per roll than traditional label media by removing the requirement of silicon backing paper. This enables linerless printing of variable label lengths, which is ideal for the precise documentation of customer contact details and order information, to then be placed onto the product packaging for delivery.

Typically, requiring specialised printers for the media’s use, BIXOLON offers a portfolio of linerless labelling and receipting options from traditional desktop POS printers to mobile printers. Its SRP-S300 linerless label or receipt printer, which is ideal for high humidity kitchen environments, is the industry’s only desktop linerless printer to enable concise, accurate linerless printing over five different print widths onto both re-stick and permanent linerless label media, with the ability to peel and re-stick labels as required. Supported by connectivity at many levels, the game-changing SRP-S300 can be adapted to be used as a receipt printer when required to reduce the number of hardware devices found in busy kitchens.

To find out more about the BIXOLON SRP-S300 and why is quickly becoming the linerless label printer of choice for major hospitality brands across the UK, along with more information on BIXOLON’s portfolio of POS, Auto-ID and Mobile receipt and label printers, visit www.BixolonEU.com, call +49-211-68-78-54-0 or email us at Sales@Bixolon.de

Warm Welcome Magazine | 17

Surviving the Covid technology boom Now months into the unprecedented

Covid-19 Pandemic, it’s not surprising that the hospitality industry is inundated with new solutions to support the operational challenges of social distancing.

But too much choice is confusing, making the selection process difficult and time consuming, even for the technically competent businesses.

Technical innovations are there to help the business thrive, but the wrong choice could deliver more expensive problems than solutions.

Of course, the functional fit will be important to meet the many challenges, such as: mobile and table ordering, track and trace, delivery using multiple channels. All of these will ensure your business can thrive post lockdown.

Is the solution fully integrated?

You might be somewhat surprised to see such a surge in apps over a short period of time. This is explainable because the app is remote, it handles one operational issue so unlikely to be tested with other operational necessity’s such as your POS system.

Add-on apps are easier to develop which is why they emerge so quickly.

They are developed for a very specific need and so are functionally rich, often referred to as ‘best of breed’ solutions.

Whilst ‘best of breed’ may deliver rich functionality, it will still need to be integrated to your POS solutions which can cause potential time delay, mapping issues and additional cost.

But functionality isn’t the only consideration, there are apps appearing all the time to handle these challenges, so what else should be considered?

Systems which are not properly integrated can also cause significant operational problems, re-keying information often results in errors and wasted time trying to identify problems.

Is the solution designed for hospitality?

How will the solution be supported?

With the emergence of so many solutions in such a short space of time, it is worth investigating the origins of the software. Where solutions have been adapted to suit new markets, there could be gaps in knowledge of market requirements and integration needs, which could become expensive over time due to support issues and failures.

In some cases, your add-on app supplier will claim to have already seamlessly integrated with specific solutions, but this could still cause a support issue.

Systems developed independently of each other can be a support nightmare.

With multiple providers it becomes

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difficult to know where to go for support. Who has responsibility for the systems working as a whole solution, not only now but in the future as new functionality and features are developed? What happens when the operating system is upgraded but not all the solutions are compatible? What happens when one party changes their app and it no longer communicates with the POS?

Are costs savings real or achievable?

Seeking individual solutions to separately handle operational challenges can result in multiple support contracts and significant monthly fees, limiting your ability to operate financially with reduced covers imposed by social distancing.

With multiple contracts and the challenges of integration, savings made at purchase could be lost over time.

What to look out for Choosing systems that will work together and come from an established technology company, will ensure minimal disruption.

Clearly a long-established company with extensive hospitality expertise will be better equipped to address the guidelines and provide the support for the whole system. Technology companies such as TISSL, have addressed all the new operational

requirements as additional modules to their HORIZON POS system. This not only reduces cost but also ensures a high level of support all in one place, because things have been designed to work together.

Keep the infrastructure simple, ensure everything is fully integrated and all works on the same platform. Deploying all functional requirements from one supplier if possible, let the supplier take responsibility for the technology enabling you to keep your staff and customers safe while still providing that culinary experience with seamless service.

TISSL HORIZON EPOS has been developed from the ground up, ensuring simpler on-going development without the constraints of most older legacy systems. There is no glue holding it together, it all works on one platform. TISSL have always

developed their platform using the latest technology so were able to react quickly to the Covid requirements set out by the government.

Mobile and table ordering is provided with an integrated module rather than a separate app. TISSL’s Consumer Ordering Platform (COP) meets all the government guidelines to re-open safely with social distancing. Customers can link easily to your POS, viewing menus and modifiers, then place and pay for their order all using their own smartphones and from anywhere in the restaurant.

There is even a track and trace system so you can provide the NHS with the required information should there be any problems with a visitor to your premises contracting covid-19.

For more details visit the TISSL website: www.tissl.co.uk or contact 01908 525800.

Has opening post lockdown lived up to your expectations?

Location seems to matter more than ever. Towns and retail parks are seeing footfall return to almost pre-covid level,

however cities continue to be at a slower pace. The following factors are affecting these changes: Offices re-opening, Childcare, Transport, Changes in rules and easing of lockdown... Have these affected your business and day to day lives?

It would appear that shoppers feel that a major downside to shopping or dining out is long queues. Habits have changed as people want to maintain physical distance – hence the switch to online shopping and the popularity of ordering apps in bars; Customers need reassurance that your business has thought about their safety and adapted accordingly. One way to signal this is through technology. With this in mind, we wanted to highlight our SmartQ , Smart Appointments, and Smart Bookings products that can assist in these changing times.

SmartQ Our “take a ticket” app. Customers use the app to join a queue and wait safely until they are notified to enter the store.

Benefits to the shopper - Seeing if / when the store they want to visit is open - Seeing whether it has a queue at present OR is taking appointments - If there is a queue, seeing how many people are in it / expected wait time - Joining the queue and being able to wait somewhere safe and comfortable rather than physically queueing - Being informed when to come to the store entrance “Now I can pre-book my - Works for non-tech users appointment and receive notifications prior to my Benefits to retailers arrival, I feel safer and - Your customer enjoys all the above benefits reassured” - Low cost – price of a coffee per day for smaller locations - Ensure outside area is safe without turning away customers - Reduce lost sales when customers are put off by the length / organisation of a physical queue or bad weather conditions.

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Smart Appointments Our appointment app that allows pre-booking of specific appointment times with notifications.

Benefits to the customer - Ability to pre-plan visits around their day - Seeing if / when the business they want to visit is open -Being reminded when to attend the appointment - Reassurance of safety and social distancing measures - Works for non-tech users

Benefits to the business owner - Your customer enjoys all the above benefits - Low cost-price of a coffee per day for smaller locations - Reduce lost sales when customers are put off by the lack of reassurance and safety measures

Smart Bookings Our booking app to reserve restaurant, pub or cafĂŠ tables.

Benefits to the customer - Seeing if / when the restaurant cafĂŠ or bar has availability - Assessing how busy the area is prior to arrival, particularly if they are anxious - Reminders sent to the customer prior to arrival - Works for non-tech users

Benefits to hospitality owners - Your customer enjoys all the above benefits - Low cost – price of a coffee per day for smaller locations - Reduce lost sales when customers forget their booking as ability to send reminders - Supports your track and trace requirements We would love to talk to you about how our Smart products can help with the recovery period as it continues to develop as well as how our products can help you to maximise the Christmas sales.

Contact us to find out more and watch our explainer video, email us via hello@adactus.co.uk or visit us at adactus.co.uk/smartq

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How hotels are benefiting from a single source of truth for F&B management The digitalisation of food and beverage management in hotels has increased menu margins, product quality and employee happiness.

Specifically, the introduction of a single source of truth has helped hotel chains to streamline the clunky processes and communications that deal with food cost, inventory management and purchasing.

The following restaurant inventory statistics highlight that progress in these areas was more than welcome.

- 35% - The average wasting of all food purchased by hotels.

- 47% Say high food cost is the #1 challenge - â‚Ź7 Average cost saved per â‚Ź1 invested in inventory control

Free Guide for

Industry Professionals

According to one study, operators can add between 2% and 10% to their bottom line thanks to optimised inventory control and accurate purchasing. These chains quickly identify sales trends and minimise over- and understocking.

Better inventory control and purchasing adds up to 10% to the bottom line.

A Single Source of Truth: How it Works...

The single source of truth is a cloudbased system that is capable of capturing all F&B action and the metrics. Users have access to the data from their laptop or mobile device.

It works like this: the system collects the operational data from different sources and does the numbers crunching. The easy to navigate dashboard then displays all the realtime performance metrics for everyone involved. The system is transparent and flexible. It reduces the

F&B Management in Hotels: The Challenge Many industry professionals say their number one challenge is to reduce high food costs, without giving in on quality or customer experience.

The drivers for high food costs are poor inventory management and unreliable purchasing data.

These two pain points are draining hotel margins. For multi-unit hotel operations, the losses are exponential.

A single source of truth for food and beverage management in hotels puts a cork in it, and that is not all it does.

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number of manual actions and the chances of mistakes happening. And above all, having an integrated system for F&B management in hotels speeds up operations.

Picture this...

The hotel executive chef, the F&B manager, the finance manager and the general manager, all looking at the same dashboard and sharing the same upto-date numbers to make strategic and operational decisions.

A single source of truth for F&B management in hotels means that users and connected apps enter or pull the data from the same - fully integrated cloud system. An integrated system like this used to be a fantasy because food and beverage is notoriously hard to monitor in hotels.

These days, however, technology is making the tracking of inventory, purchasing, product development and menu engineering reasonably straightforward.

When F&B management in hotels goes digital Digitalisation gets rid of the all too common guesswork, resulting in:

F&B Management Software for Hotel chains Let’s Take a Look at Inventory...

Inventory management is vital for keeping food cost under control.

In hotels, unfortunately, it can be a nightmare – so many bars, dining rooms, buffets and a range of people responsible for the ordering and receiving of goods.

Overstocking and ordering errors are always lurking behind the corner. And they are costly.

There is less chance of things going wrong when everybody has access to the same operational data.

When the operations manager, the chefs and the procurement-team all work in the same system, the F&B manager only has to push one button to generate a precise bill-of-materials.

There is no going through spreadsheets or emailing coworkers anymore, because the data they need are already there.

The software calculates the amounts that need to be ordered by cross-referencing recipes, inventory status and portions required.

The software calculates what needs to be purchased by cross-referencing recipes, inventory status and the number of portions that required.

There is no going through spreadsheets anymore.

The accounting team can go into the order backlog of the system and doublecheck supplier invoices. It saves everyone time and reduces the risk of mistakes greatly.

- Data-driven decision making cloud - Accurate procurement planning - Low food cost - Efficient staff onboarding - Less admin, more quality Just as important, sharing information between teams and departments is now instant and 100% accurate.

Assess Your Competitiveness Food and beverage management processes in hotels are typically things that develop organically over time. With technology making rapid progress, this is an excellent time to assess the robustness of your system. Below you will find nine questions to do so. We have included the ideal answers.

9 questions to test the competitiveness of your hotel F&B management system.

1. How many people do you have to contact to know how much money is locked in F&B stock?

- Ideal answer: “none, I check the number every morning on my laptop” 2. Are you replying on spreadsheets to keep track of performance?

- Ideal answer: “no, spreadseets are hard to update and a nightmare for collaborating with co-workers” 3. Do all departments churn out reports for others to analyse?

- Ideal answer: “no, we don’t print or share reports. The required data are available in the ERP-system for those who need them”

5. Are you copying data from one software system to another?

- Ideal answer: “no, that would be a waste of time. All systems integrate. The data is shared automatically via API or otherwise.

6. Can you extract allergen information and nutritional values for your recipes and menus.

Ideal answer: “yes, informing customers is paramount.

7. Do you have a database for recipes?

- Ideal answer: “yes, employee turnover is high, so onboarding has to be quick and effective. Staff can look up recipes, methodologies, technical sheets and stepby-step (video) guidelines.

8. Are your menu items hitting their target margin, right now?

- Ideal answer: “let me check. Yes, 90% are, 10% Is just below target. I can give you the ideal and actual food cost for each recipe too, if you are interested”.

9. Are you actively recording inventory actions like stock transfer and waste?

Ideal answer: “Yes, high food cost is the #1 challenge. We enter stock counts, transfers & waste directly into the system.

Discover how hotels add up to 10% to their bottom line thanks to optimised inventory control and accurate purchasing.

Get your free guide today by heading over to get.apicbase.com or to get in touch with the team Email: sales@apicbase.com or Call: +44 20 3514 1727

4. Are you actively reducing the number of manual actions required to get valuable business insights?

- Ideal answer: “yes, manual actions are prone to errors and therefore costly”.

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Market owner says app is here to stay after trade bounces back

The owner of a popular Greater

Manchester market is celebrating a return to near pre-Covid lockdown business levels – thanks to app technology.

Around 100 members of staff at Altrincham Market had been put on redundancy notice but now almost all jobs will be saved.

And Nick Johnson, previously a selfconfessed technology sceptic, says that the app, designed by App4, has been a key factor in the market’s bounce back.

He said it is also being used at his other sites at Manchester’s Mackie Mayor and Macclesfield’s Picturedrome and he is optimistic their levels of trade will follow suit.

Nick said: “Pre-lockdown, we were feeding 30,000 people a week. We are a busy operation, employing 300 people.

“Our three locations are people-driven social experiences around food and drink, so our decision was how do we

resurrect ourselves using technology – without diminishing the social aspect of what it is to come to one of our venues.

“The App has got us to the closest point where it can happen without undue interference in the interaction of family, friends and food.

“People can create an account and order and pay for food at the table and we have introduced a takeaway service so we actually have some additional dimensions.

“I had been very reluctant to embrace technology in respect of our business to the extent our strapline had been ‘not available online’ as a deliberate riposte to the interference of technology in our everyday experience.

“However, having worked with App4 and now operated an app across each of our reopened venues, we have found it allows us to reach a balance of tech supporting the experience rather than tech interfering with it. “It gives some people a sense of safety and security.

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They can order and pay at their table without the need to move around. But this has not interfered too much with the atmosphere which has always been critical to our collective success.

“It does not inhibit too many people.

Actually, there are very many octogenarians who are showing they are adept with technology. They realise they are the most vulnerable to Coronavirus and can most benefit from the app which will help keep them remote in a social setting.

“At Altrincham Market, our business is almost at pre-Covid levels. Meanwhile, Manchester, along with all major cities, has been hit by the lack of office workers and tourists but Mackie Mayor is trading well and improving each week.

Macclesfield Picturedrome is only two weeks into re-opening and the signs are very good there.

“I don’t see the App disappearing. We are wholly relying on it to produce income at the moment and I now accept that this is very much part of the way forward.

“In the future, there will still be the excitement of a crowded bar for some but others will use the app to order food and drink.

Ian Chambers, managing director of App4, said: “We are delighted that the Alt Eats app has been such a success.

“It allows customers to choose from a hugely varied menu of food and outlets and their meals can be delivered to numbered tables in sectioned areas.”

App4 provides bespoke solutions across the food and drink industry and has seen high-profile success for pub and takeaway chains Ian added: “We are busy helping companies who have been desperate to trade for months. It is excellent to see their business coming back so quickly through the use of technology which they wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

“Now they all agree, it is here to stay.”

If you want your own app & online ordering service call 01332 742511, email info@goapp4.com or visit www.app4.co.uk

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The perfect playlist for your business The hospitality industry, along with

leisure and retail have been some of the most impacted sectors since the start of the Covid pandemic. Now that shops and venues are starting to reopen across the country, it has never been so important to create a welcoming atmosphere for new and returning customers… but how do you create the right atmosphere?

Besides the general architecture of a venue, to offer warm welcome it is essential to create the right balance of lighting, interior design and hospitable staff. But by far the most important element of this balance, and one that can be overlooked, is music. Music can set the tone, reflecting the style and atmosphere of your brand instantly.

Following sight, sound is the strongest impulse in cross-modal psychology according to Professor Charles Spence, head of Oxford University’s Crossmodal Research group. Crossmodal perception occurs when two or more senses interact with each other, which can heavily influence a customer’s ‘Approach or Avoid’ reaction. This is the vital difference

between a potential client being attracted to your venue or avoiding it completely.

Creating the right ambience can lead to much richer multi-sensory memories and experiences. Top tier brands are now exploring sensploration to investigate how their sales could improve dramatically as the links with sound become more apparent.

Additional research has also shown how the impact of the tempo, the tone and genre of music can have an effect on customer foot traffic. Slower music will naturally reduce the speed of customer movement through an establishment whereas fast paced music may decrease the amount of time a customer spends in an establishment, if not used in the correct manner. Another example presented by Professor Charles Spence is how in a food establishment the pitch of music can affect a consumer’s experience.

High pitch music may bring out the sweetness of a dish whereas deeper tones may bring out the bitterness of a dish, maximise superadditive and allow senses to work together to enhance an individual’s experience.

The tone, along with genre of music, can impact purchasing choice and price points. In the same manner that the quality of linen or cutlery can affect a customer’s impression of an establishment – the right music within an environment has a direct connection with the amount a customer may be willing to spend. Auracle Sound has been live streaming commercially licensed music channels to businesses across Europe

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since 2006. An established and reputable service with years of industry experience Auracle has offices in London and Berlin servicing the UK and Europe directly.

They have a wide knowledge of the market forces and what it takes to get the music right.

Thousands of new music releases are showcased everyday around the world from major labels, independent artists, digital distributors through to music blog aggregators - there is just too much choice for many businesses. To assess what music sets the mood best for a venue an abundance of time is needed.

This is where Auracle Sound’s expertise can help. They supply the retail, hospitality and leisure industries with over 40 live channels in every conceivable genre of background music. These channels are frequently updated and randomised to create a spontaneous soundtrack each day. By building an ever expanding library of music with unlimited updates Auracle forgoes the repetition experienced from traditional hard disc services with more limited playlists. For Auracle Sound it is imperative that the initial library is large enough for the listener not to sense any repetition both for staff morale and repeat customers.

With the advent of better broadband IP - audio streaming has become a reality. Auracle offers larger licensing limits which gives the customer a greater selection of music starting out and access to unlimited updates.

Another important factor is keeping the channels up to date with the latest well recognised and popular copyright releases. Not all genre’s are chart led as pop however, with classical and jazz releases there are everlasting classics which are always favourites.

This is where remastered releases and new recordings can be of relevance along with new releases and regularly refreshed channels.

Auracle Sound also offers a more personalised service for larger brands who wish to create custom signature stations. This kind of audio branding or DNA profiling identifies your brand’s sound and represents that in a signature soundtrack. Creating the right atmosphere in a vast range of establishments from Shops, Restaurants, Bars, Hotels, Gyms, Spa’s, Trampoline Center’s and all sorts of public performance areas.

With over a decade of experience, Auracle has their own in-house team to handle any specific requests. They also work with some of the best specialist music consultants in the business.

Auracle can create custom playlists and deliver a timetabled schedule of music within an agreed time frame.

Ultimately the right music can create a sense of timelessness, creating the right atmosphere where your audience is completely immersed in your environment.

Whether the listener is browsing the aisle, rail, menu or relaxing with a drink they will feel comfortable in doing so.

If there is sensory dominance leading to the wrong atmosphere, this can lead to a loss of sales but perfecting the ambience which compliments all of the other atmospheric elements of your business can lead to a sharp increase in sales.

At this time, as we once again welcome new and returning customers during and thereafter the “Eat Out to Help Out” campaign, it is absolutely crucial to create the right ambience for your establishment.

Businesses now need to think about how they can keep customers coming back time and time again even after the discounts approved by Chancellor Rishi Sunak have stopped.

Speak to one of our advisors today to discuss your situation and find out how Auracle can create the perfect atmosphere for your business. Contact us via phone, +44 (020) 7112-7504, email us at info@auraclesound.co.uk or visit our website today auraclesound.co.uk

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The Churchill Bar & Terrace

Tucked away behind Oxford Street

and moments away from Marylebone Village, the award-winning bar boasts a newly re-designed outdoor terrace that mirrors the interior with a modern yet classic aesthetic alongside subtle nods to Winston Churchill. The ceiling will combine elements of nature and elegance, featuring four statement globe pendants surrounded by foliage wreaths of lavender and buddleia plants – a favourite of Winston Churchill and his wife, Clementine. Inspired by Churchill’s love of cigars, the coffee tables and cushions throughout the terrace feature refined tones of tobacco.

The wide space has been configured to allow for one metre between tables and the team are following all government guidance to ensure guests have a safe and comfortable visit whilst still getting the full Churchill Bar experience.

The expert bar team deliver memorable craft cocktails, homemade tonics and ingredients alongside classic cocktails.

The Forbidden Spritz is a refreshing summer cocktail, made with Kaffir Lime Leaves Infused Rooster Rojo Tequila, Campari, Agave Syrup, Lime Juice and 3 Cents Grapefruit Soda, ideal on a summer’s afternoon or early evening.

Guests can dine inside or alfresco, with a bar menu that features a variety of gourmet burgers with sides such as truffle potato croquettes.

The wartime Prime Minister continues to inspire the team with the resilience that he’s known for during some of the hardest times.

Inside the bar, bookshelves curated

by Daunt Books feature a range of literature reflecting the interests of Churchill and Clementine. Original photographs and love letters donated from his family adorn the walls and contribute to the overall aesthetic and feel of the bar as somewhere the Prime Minister would have enjoyed relaxing in with a drink.

Address: Hyatt Regency London The Churchill, 30 Portman Square, W1H 7BH

Nelson Bernardes, Bar Manager, Churchill Bar and Terrace, says of the reopening: “Churchill’s ethos of hope, resilience and optimism has certainly resonated with the team in the last few months as we’ve worked hard to re-open the bar for our guests. We’re thrilled to be back open with a new terrace and maintaining what the bar is known for - high quality cocktails and excellent customer service.”

As Churchill once said, “All the greatest things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom; justice; honour; duty; mercy; hope ”

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Opening: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00pm – 23:00pm (last food orders; 10pm and last seating; 10.30pm)

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Deliveroo picks up the baton and launches ‘Eat In To Help Out’ Award-winning food delivery service

launched by Chancellor Rishi Sunak to support high street restaurants and ran throughout August. As that comes to an end, Deliveroo is stepping in with this new offer to consumers.

Deliveroo launches ‘Eat In To Help Out’ scheme to support small local restaurants on 1st September. Following success of the Government’s Eat Out To Help Out discount scheme, Deliveroo customers will now receive £5 off on delivery orders throughout September. The scheme is welcomed

by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak. New Deliveroo customers will also receive free delivery for 14 days for the months of September and October

To claim their £5 discount, customers need to use the following codes on orders above £20:

Deliveroo announces its ‘Eat In to Help Out’ scheme to support small restaurants in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Deliveroo will pick up part of the bill when Brits enter a special code when ordering from their favourite local restaurants every Monday-Wednesday during September. There is a different code for customers to enter for each of the five weeks of September.

The scheme follows on from the success of the Government’s hugely successful Eat Out to Help Out, which was

‘EATIN1’ between 01/09/20 and 02/09/20 ‘EATIN2’ between 07/09/20 and 09/09/20 ‘EATIN3’ between 14/09/20 and 16/09/20 ‘EATIN4’ between 21/09/20 and 23/09/20 ‘EATIN5’ between 28/09/20 and 30/09/20 Deliveroo is committed to helping the tens of thousands of small and independent restaurants who are suffering as a result of Covid-19, and delivery is a vital way for them to sustain their businesses. To encourage more people to use delivery and support

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their local restaurants, Deliveroo is also offering new customers to the platform 14 days’ free delivery for the months of September and October.

There are more than 16,000 local restaurants involved in Deliveroo’s ‘Eat In to Help Out’ scheme. 100,000 customers will be able to get the £5 discount each week in September.

Deliveroo is funding all the consumer discounts for the local participating restaurants. National chains are being given the option to participate, if they fund the discount themselves.

The Government’s campaign has given the restaurant industry a lifeline and much-needed cash boost following an unprecedented few months. As the campaign ends on 31st August, Deliveroo will pick up the baton and continue this drive to support local restaurants, with full support from Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, said: “This has been an incredibly difficult time for the hospitality sector, both during the

Thousands of restaurants and cafes forced to close during lockdown were thankfully able to continue trading in some way using delivery services such as Deliveroo. For small, independent and local firms this has been a lifeline.

“Our Eat out to Help out scheme was designed to help restaurants reopen and protect the two million jobs in this sector, giving it the boost it needed. I hope that people will continue to show their support for this vitally important part of our economy and Deliveroo’s new Eat In to Help Out scheme is another way for them to do so.”

CEO and founder of Deliveroo, Will Shu, said:“Deliveroo is passionate about supporting local restaurants, who are central to our business and to so many high streets across the UK. Our restaurant partners play a vital role in our economy, just as they do people’s everyday lives, bringing people the food they love. We know they have been hit hard recently, and we hope Our Eat IN to Help Out scheme can play a part in helping their businesses through this difficult period..”

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Legendary designer Jean-Michel Gathy completes Four Seasons hotel Soaring above the centre of Tokyo

with panoramic views of the Imperial Palace, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi will open in September 2020. Under the masterful touch of Jean-Michel Gathy, legendary principal designer at the award-winning hospitality & design consultancy firm Denniston, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi is poised to reach a new height of luxury in its design statement with Japanese traditions melded seamlessly with a modern European aesthetic.

On the top six floors of the new 39-storey tower + 2 additional floors (Ground Floor and 3rd Floor) adjacent to the Imperial Palace–the capital’s literal and figurative heart, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi will be a restful haven for travellers delivering a new level of luxury experiences at the city’s latest sky-high social scene. The hotel will feature 193 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, a prestigious spa sanctuary and a 20-metre pool on the highest floor as well as four distinct F&B concepts. Jean-Michel Gathy skillfully presents authentic Japanese elements

throughout the design in respecting Japan’s culture, traditions and heritage, while incorporating the finest elements and absolute DNA of Four Seasons.

“The cultural diversity of the country has drawn me to create a contemporary expression of the traditional values for this project without arrogance or a sense of overbearing. We aim to ignite the feeling of a home away from home with an inviting, warm and welcoming atmosphere in the most dynamic city” comments Jean-Michel Gathy and Keiko Tsuchiya, the Japanese interior designer at Denniston.

A Dramatic Entrance Reflecting the vibrancy of Tokyo, a traditional Japanese red-orange lacquer box featuring solid timber panels acts as the frame to the hotel entrance at the busiest district of Tokyo. Jean-Michel Gathy has created an experience of sensory excitement from which travellers will discover the city’s intriguing blend of ancient and hypermodern. To replicate the Japanese aesthetic, Jean-Michel Gathy has personally curated a defining art collection to celebrate the distinctive

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craftsmanship and artistry, which embodies the traditional foundations of the country. Distinct examples can be found in the combination of the Japanese floral art Ikebana, hanging natural fiber/fabric artwork and the timber panel featured at the entrance to awaken the overriding strength of connection between east and west.

The Art of the Reception Board the lift to the reception lobby on the 39th-floor where an extraordinary view is revealed through a glass curtain wall fronted by a rock installation on a shallow pond. “To truly respect the tradition and interpret the tranquility of Japan, the water feature serves as a buffer area to deflect guests’ eyeballs as it may be considered as discourteous to look straight down into the Imperial Palace.” shares Jean-Michel Gathy who leads his team to plan scrupulously and strike a balance between the pursuit of aesthetics and the preservation of culture and respect for traditions. The 6-meter high ceiling and cosy nooks and crannies provide capacious space for the reception, while the colour theme warm welcoming atmosphere of gold and

black delivers a subtle and to Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi. The links between contemporary West and the traditions of Japan have contributed to the reception area where guests can discover the hidden details before experiencing the dynamism of Tokyo. In response to the Four Seasons’ core value of “East meets West”, the Japanese calligraphy with the meaning of “season” is harmoniously blended in a typical European pendant chandelier and ingeniously displayed on the bottom part of the dome. The Japanese Zen garden subtly sculpted and reflected on a 3-dimensional wall by the artist Pongsatat Uaiklan (Dong) sits behind an elegant Italian cat-leg cabinet decorated with Japanese blocks.

Rooms with Flowing Fabric Art

Distinct Japanese touches immerse guests in the local landscape, the flowing and multidimensional design can be found throughout the 193 guest rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi. Blending the art to the room flawlessly, Jean-Michel Gathy appointed the Japanese award-winning photographer Namiko Kitaura to capture the bespoke fabric artwork displayed as the backdrop in each guest room.

All rooms and suites are tailored for intimacy with an innovative open-plan layout. The sophisticated Japanese aesthetic flows through the interiors which are illuminated by natural light during the day and with bespoke modern light fixtures to reflect the after-dark glamour of Tokyo.

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Celebratory Spaces to Dream Celebrating an authentic wedding in the heart of Tokyo at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, the ballroom and the function rooms adjacent to the chapel promise magical settings for every moment of celebrations.

Natural light and elegant décor at the chapel invoke an ambience of romance and peace with distinctive European touches. Incorporating private rooms for the bride and officiant, and offering seamless connectivity to the Ballroom Foyer, Grand Ballroom and each of the smaller function rooms, the Chapel can host not only the ceremony but all other types of wedding events, from intimate family brunches to gala receptions.

The Grand Ballroom’s windows draw natural light into the spacious interior.

The chandeliers and cascading lights without concrete shapes echo the beauty of nature and evoke the contemporary transition of Japanese culture. JeanMichel Gathy shares his vision for the project “Inspired by the hotel name - Four Seasons, we are trying to reflect the essence of traditional literature and poetry – Flow of the Seasons.”

The Spa and pool embody relaxation Jean-Michel Gathy applies his deft touch to create a serene sanctuary for THE SPA at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi with the selection of a gentle and relaxing colour tone. The massive 3D natural fiber or fabric art installations in the spa lobby and pool area billow and sweep outward as if caught in a gust of wind, which offer a sanctuary of tranquility amidst bustling Tokyo for a journey of rejuvenation, relaxation and the pursuit of well-being.

Jean-Michel Gathy proudly leads his team to interpret the luxury brand DNA of Four Seasons with great respect to the culture and tradition of the country while celebrating the cuttingedge creativity and contemporary design ethos of Tokyo as a dynamic city. Jean-Michel Gathy continues his innovative design inspiration which draws upon aspects of the country’s rich culture to the brand and his previous completion - Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River will also open on 1st October 2020.Visit denniston.com.my for more information on Denniston or Principal Designer Jean-Michel Gathy.

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Harwood Arms reopens tomorrow with a completely new menu and a brand new look

Sally Abé, Head Chef at the Harwood Arms - London’s only Michelin-starred pub and 2020 winner of Estrella Damm

Gastropub of the Year – has been perfecting the menu during lockdown. When the pub reopens tomorrow, 2nd September, she promises that everything on the menu, except the venerated Venison Scotch Eggs (now to be joined by a vegetarian Scotch Egg), and their famous Sunday Roast, will be new.

Co-owner Brett Graham has taken time whilst the Harwood Arms has been closed to refurbish the bar and dining areas, adding new artworks and exuberant and stylish feather chandeliers. Tables will now be set with beautiful leather cutlery pouches from East London leather makers and social initiative drivers Paradise Row. And to celebrate the reopening week, there’s free English Sparkling Wine for diners with their meals. The Harwood Arms won the Estrella Damm ‘Gastropub of the Year’, and ‘Gastropub Chef of the Year’ awards this year. They were handed out just as lockdown was imposed, and with no time to properly celebrate the win then, Head Chef Sally Abé will be offering diners a free glass of Hattingley Valley Classic Reserve NV from the Hampshire wine makers for every service during the first week of reopening.

The new menu includes ‘Oyster and English sparkling soup with seaweed, lemon and an oyster beignet’; ‘Berkshire pork chop with crackling, pease pudding and sauce charcuterie’, and a ‘Raspberry marshmallow teacake’. Full Covid-19 safety and wellbeing measures will be reassuringly employed for staff and guests, conforming to Government and Public Health England guidelines, including bespoke hand sanitisers and contact tracing. The restaurant will be open for dinner Tuesday – Friday, and for lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday.

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Has Eat Out helped out?

How has the eat out to help out scheme worked?

A qualified success With over one in 10 of the UK population taking part and over 84,000 restaurants registered, the government’s innovative ‘Eat out to Help Out’ scheme has been heralded as a big success by the industry.

Launched in the aftermath of the UK lockdown, the scheme was a response to the fact that approximately 80% of companies in the hospitality sector had stopped trading as a result of the corona virus outbreak, forcing the sector to place around 1.4 million of its workers on furlough – the highest in any industry across Britain.

The latest information suggests that by the 31st August deadline, over 80 million meals were served up, with an average claim of £5 under the scheme and the taxpayer footing a bill of around £400 million, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Despite a clamour from both industry and consumers for the scheme to be extended, the government has confirmed that this will not be the case. everything instead. Kate Nicholls, Chief

“Part of this popularity is precisely because it is a time-limited scheme,” said a government spokesman, adding: “This reminds and encourages people to safely return to going out.”

Boosting confidence The scheme was part of a wider package of hospitality support that does stretch beyond August, including cutting VAT to 5%, paying the wages of furloughed staff, business rates relief, and billions of pounds in tax deferrals and loans.

Founder and Chairman of the pub chain JD Wetherspoon, Tim Martin, has described the government scheme as a ‘great boost’ to the hospitality industry. His company – and some other larger operators – have decided to fund discounts themselves, with Wetherspoons offering deals on meals from Monday to Wednesday under its own ‘Stay Out to Help Out’ scheme, which will run until at least November 11.

Supermarket giant Asda has said its cafés will be continuing to discount food throughout September. Rather than giving a discount of 50% off up to £10, however, the chain is offering 25% off Executive of UK Hospitality, the

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industry body that lobbied so hard for the scheme, is also pleased that it has had the desired effect on consumers, stating that: “Boosting confidence, boosting footfall has been the most significant thing this scheme has done.”

Despite the success of the scheme with consumers there have been implications for those working in the sector. Many understaffed kitchens have been deluged with orders, and front-of-house teams have had to deal with demanding customers, while implementing new safety protocols and adhering to social distancing.

As a consequence, many staff are exhausted and many in the sector are now not opening on Thursdays to address these challenges.

An uncertain autumn ahead Despite the welcome lift in consumer confidence that Eat out to Help out has driven, businesses will still face the autumn with some trepidation. The removal of the discount incentive and the winding down of the furlough scheme that has covered wage bills will be twin forces that the sector will have to contend with. Another significant issue for operators will be rents as the next quarter’s bills loom.

The rent issue will require honest and constructive dialogue between landlords and operators about how they move forward to protect each other in the coming months.

Together they have lobbied for a government-backed ‘Property Bounceback’ grant scheme to help facilitate in on-going rent negotiations, urging the government to provide 50% of rent and service charges.

certainly revived some demand and temporarily reduced staff costs. It remains to be seen what the long-term impact will be, but trends such as the growing consumption of restaurantquality food at home, such as takeaways and deliveries, may well be accelerated.

If, indeed, we are witnessing a structural shift in UK food-consumption habits, operators in the sector will need to respond.

Hospitality trade bodies, including the British Property Federation, British Retail Consortium, Revo, UK Active and UK Hospitality, believe that although such a scheme would cost £1.75bn, it would generate £7bn of economic activity, saving 375,000 jobs.

One such model is the emergence of ‘dark kitchens’, also known as virtual kitchens, cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens or delivery-only restaurants. Dark kitchens sell meals exclusively through delivery rather than cooking for eat-in diners.

While this would certainly alleviate a growing problem as other schemes taper down, it is not clear yet how much traction this idea is gaining with government.

Coupled with the phenomenal growth of delivery platforms such as Uber Eats and Just Eat, this move could enable food businesses to easily connect with customers and quickly deliver meals to their doorsteps.

Adapting to new dining habits It has certainly been an incredibly challenging year for the hospitality sector. The state support measures announced in the UK summer will economic plan not resolve the hospitality sector’s long-term challenges, although the support package has

Brendan Moffett, Director of the University of Derby’s Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism, reflects on the impact of the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme and considers what may be next for the UK hospitality sector.

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Self-drive secluded holidays in Europe for October half term For families looking to get away this

October half-term without having to step on a plane, villa holiday specialist Oliver’s Travels is here to help with its ‘Holidays by Car’ collection. With a wide range of secluded family-friendly properties to choose from, there is something to suit all groups and ages from lakeside villas to tranquil stays surrounded by countryside.

Chateau Quatre Saisons, Normandy – For Families Looking to Keep Fit Getting there: 50-minute drive from the Caen ferry port in Ouistreham, connected to Portsmouth. Nestled within 60 acres of private woodlands, Château Quatre Saisons is within easy reach of the UK, just under an hour from the nearest ferry port. Ideal for families looking to keep fit whilst on holiday, it features its own gym, tennis courts and bikes for exploring the area on two wheels. Sleeping 10 guests, the chateau has a range of rooms to suit all ages including a twin room for the youngest guests. Families can also

partake in a range of outdoor games including croquet, boules, and badminton. Rates from £4,838 for a seven-night stay during October half term, sleeping 10 guests in five bedrooms.

Chateau Beaucharm, Champagne – For Families Seeking a Quieter Life Getting there: Five-hour drive from the Eurotunnel crossing in Coquelles, connected to Folkestone and the Calais ferry port, connected to Folkestone and Dover.

Located in the Haut-Marne department, Chateau Beaucharm offers a tranquil escape in an unspoilt area made up of valleys, forested trails, and quaint villages. The three-bedroom stone villa features expansive grounds for kids to roam free and has its own bikes for families looking to explore the rolling countryside. Families can partake in a range of activities in the area including hiking, horse riding, tennis and swimming in one of the many nearby lakes. Rates from £991

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for a seven-night stay during October half term, sleeping eight guests in three bedrooms.

Blackstairs Mountain House, Republic of Ireland – For Nature Lovers Getting there: One hour and half drive from Dublin port, connected to Liverpool, or one-hour drive from Rosslare port, connected to Fishguard in South Wales.

Blackstairs Mountain House is ideally placed for families who love nature; it has a rural setting and is within easy reach of multiple mountain walks. Set on a hilltop within the ruins of a rustic farmhouse on the Kilkenny and Carlow border, the property offers striking views across Mount Leinster and the Castlecomer hills. For outdoorsy children, the opportunities are endless with cycling, white water rafting, and horse riding all offered in the area.

Rates from £2,307 for a seven-night stay during October half term, sleeping eight guests in four bedrooms.

Maison Charente, Aquitaine – For Young Children Getting there: Five-hour drive from Le Havre ferry crossing, connected to Portsmouth.

Located in a sleepy hamlet of the Aquitaine region, Maison Charente lends itself perfectly to a family with young children. It sleeps eight guests in four bedrooms including one kid’s bedroom with twin beds. The property is dotted with baby friendly touches including highchairs, cots, a baby monitor, buggy and a baby bouncer.

It also has a playroom full of toys for all ages and an outdoor play area. The owners provide a welcome hamper on arrival and can also arrange bike hire, babysitting and in-house beauty treatments. Le Rejallant is a riverside

spot only a five-minute drive away, with paddling, swimming, and sunbathing it is a must for all the family. Rates from £1,475 for a seven-night stay during October half term, sleeping eight guests in four bedrooms.

Villa Regina, Italian Lakes – For Sporty Teenagers Getting there: 12-hour drive from Le Havre ferry crossing, connected to Portsmouth, or 13-hour drive from Dieppe, connected to Newhaven.

Lying on the east shore of Lake Garda just above the Roman town of Brenzone sul Garda, Villa Regina is situated in a peaceful area with no neighbours in sight and one of the best views of the lake. Set on a 21-private acre estate, the villa is surrounded by ancient olive groves

and beautiful gardens, with an outdoor heated whirlpool, hot tub and sauna.

The lake can be reached by a 15-minute walk downhill where sporty teenagers can partake in a range of waterbased activities including sailing, wind surfing and kite surfing. The area also offers countless hiking routes in the surrounding mountains with trails to suit different abilities.

Rates from £4,758 for a seven-night stay during October half term, sleeping eight guests in three bedrooms. All properties come with Oliver’s Travels Book with Confidence pledge, giving guests the option to postpone their holiday to alternative available dates, up to 28 days prior to their holiday start date. To book with Olivers Travel visit www.oliverstravels.com or call 0800 133 79

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New wellness offerings at Lou Pinet and Crillon Le Brave this Summer As the Covid-19 pandemic sees many turn towards focusing on their health and wellbeing, Maisons Pariente has announced its

latest wellness experiences available at the stunning Lou Pinet in Saint Tropez and Crillon le Brave in Provence. From a facial gym session designed by Tata Harper at Lou Pinet to yoga, meditation, and Mum-to-Be treatments at Crillon Le Brave, guests will be spoilt for choice.

Lou Pinet: Exclusively positioned away from the hustle and bustle of SaintTropez, guests are encouraged to wind down at Hotel Lou Pinet. Days can be spent lounging around the emerald swimming pool – the largest in SaintTropez, visiting the nearby beaches or winding down at the Tata Harper Spa. Introducing The Face Gym: Experience a unique new wellness treatment at Lou Pinet which is offering a Face Gym by Tata Harper providing guests with a special glow following months in lockdown. The spa therapists have been expertly trained in the exclusive Tata Harper techniques to release tension, restore original volumes and re-sculpt features with a visible rejuvenating effect. The facial gym session can be described as a natural facelift because of the anti-ageing, toning effect. The spa therapists at Lou Pinet teach their face gym techniques to take guests through personalised training sessions.

Tata Harper Spa: Guests will take a short walk to the bottom of the garden where the Spa is located in an intimate, protective haven designed to resemble a cave. Tata Harper was an obvious choice for Lou Pinet as the products are organic and highly concentrated in active ingredients.

The spa boasts two treatment rooms, a steam room and a gym with state-of-the-art equipment. The treatment menu consists of massages, body rituals, facial rituals, gentlemen’s rituals and an array of beauty treatments.

Gym: Positioned next to the spa, the gym boasts panoramic skylights allowing natural light to fill the room. A coach is available upon request to create personalised programmes and morning yoga classes can be organised to start the day with sun salutations in the garden.

For reservations and information please visit www.loupinet.com - email reservations@loupinet.com or call +33 4 94 97 04 37

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Crillon Le Brave: Hotel Crillon le Brave encourages guests to switch off and enjoy the art of taking things slow in the heart of a Provencal village-hotel. Guests will explore the village and its alleys, rejuvenate the mind and body at the hotel’s spa and enjoy the serene Provence countryside.

Spa des Ecuries: The Spa des Ecuries is positioned under imposing arches of the former vaulted stone stables from the 18th century. With three treatment rooms, including one double, the spa combines gentle and effective approaches dedicated to enhancing overall wellbeing. Guests can take advantage of the holistic treatment techniques of Bamford which are completely tailored to each guests’ needs. Personalised programmes are available upon request to as well as sports preparation and recovery, yoga, meditation, slimming and detoxing, anti-stress cures and Mum-to-Be treatments.

Explore the Outdoors: Re-discover the pleasures of a picnic in nature with three picnic baskets specially created by Head Chef Anissa Boulesteix using locally sourced products. Discover hilltop villages, lavender fields, wild sage and other hidden treasures which only a balloon ride can reveal. Explore the village and local area among vineyards on foot, on horseback or pedaling an electric, trekking, road or mountain bike. The concierge team can organise a day of golf at one of the four golf courses near the hotel, tennis or kayaking from Fontaine de Vaucluse to Isle-sue-la-Sorgue.

Endless Summer Wellness & Nutrition Retreat: Crillon Le Brave is delighted to be hosting a retreat on the 24th-27th September; an opportunity for self-care and to explore the hotel’s beautiful surroundings. Laurie-Anne Duval, a natural health consultant specialised in nutrition, dietary changes and stress management, will present seminars as well as practical workshops around wellness and nutrition. The gourmet vegan dishes that will be served have been developed by Anissa Boulesteix, Chef at Crillon le Brave, in collaboration with Wellness by LMSV experts.

For reservations and information visit www.crillonlebrave.com - email reservations@crillonlebrave.com or call + 33 4 90 65 61 61

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Book Lepogo Lodges’ Noka Camp, South Africa and Experience the Ultimate Remote Escape With demand for isolated, nature-focused escapes on the rise and an

upsurge in group bookings now that families and friends can reunite, Lepogo Lodges’ Noka Camp has launched a timely 10% discount offer for exclusive hire bookings. The offer will be available for stays before 15th December 2021.

Lepogo Lodges, one of Africa’s few 100% not-for-profit luxury safari operators, set within the 50,000-hectare, malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness Reserve and home to the ‘big five’, extends a wealth of diverse activities and experiences.

Guests who choose to book the entire camp will enjoy exclusive access to its facilities and amenities, all the while experiencing the utmost privacy and world-class personal service that Noka Camp is renowned for. With only one other commercial lodge on the reserve, this is the ideal pick for luxury travellers in search of a remote wilderness escape.

The luxury camp consists of five stilted villas with private pool, including one villa especially designed for families. The villas are joined by a main lodge comprised of dining room, bar, lounge area and sprawling outdoor terrace, all perched atop a 100ft cliff overlooking the winding Palala River below and the endless bush ahead. The camp is entirely off-grid, with all energy self-generated by a bespoke, 250m solar walkway.

Excursions and activities range from game-drives and water safaris, to tree top yoga and tours of iron-age settlements and bushman paintings in the cliffs below the lodge. Lepogo also offers ‘luxury bush sleep outs’ which allow one to follow in the footsteps of the forefathers of Lapalala.

A choice of open-air and in-room dining experiences will provide ample opportunity to relax and recharge, with a team of world-class chefs headed by the Heston Blumenthal-trained Thapelo Letsogo.

Lepogo Lodges is the very first luxury safari operator in Africa to launch a carbon offset programme. Based on careful research of emission figures, Lepogo Lodges calculates the carbon emissions resulting from each guest’s journey, from the time they leave their home to the moment they return.

The figure is converted into a monetary value which is then donated by the camp into one of three conservation projects chosen by the guest.

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Lepogo Lodges will consist of two lodges, with a second property, Melote House, set to open in early 2022. Ideal for multi-generational family travel, Melote House will be an exclusive-use property sleeping up to 16 guests.

The health and safety of its guests is of utmost importance to the team at Lepogo Lodges. For full details of the lodge’s COVID-19 precautionary measures, please contact the team at Grifco (contact details below).

Special Offer for ‘exclusive hire’ stays, booked to travel before 15th December 2021 (excluding Christmas, New Year and Easter), start from R172,800 (£8,165*) per night on an all-inclusive board basis.

Offer includes a 10% discount and complimentary airport road transfers. For more information or to make a reservation visit www.lepogolodges.com or email info@lepogolodges.com. Standard ‘exclusive hire’ nightly rates at Lepogo Lodges start from R192,000 (£9,072*) per night on an all-inclusive board basis.

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Introducing ‘The Mayor’s Residence’ at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is proud

to unveil The Mayor’s Residence, a private nine-bedroom palace with the services of the renowned five-star hotel.

Opening its doors on 1st September 2020, the residence is steeped in history and will cost €24,450 a night with a dedicated Team of staff including a Butler, Housekeeper, and Private Chef.

Guests of The Mayor’s Residence will have exclusive use of the hotel’s multi award-winning* Guerlain Spa and unlimited spa treatments.

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam overlooks the UNESCO protected Herengracht canal and is comprised of six 17th residential palaces owned by the city’s wealthiest individuals during The Dutch Golden Age. The Mayor’s Residence was built in 1665 for Hendrik Hooft, one of Amsterdam’s most influential mayors. Decorated by Hendrik’s wife Maria Hooft and then by the prominent De Wildts family in 1780, the palace retains many of its original Rococo features to this day and is an architectural masterpiece. The Mayor’s Residence sits adjacent to the hotel

with its own private entrance. Guests will be greeted on arrival by their personal Team including a Butler, Private Chef, Guerlain Spa Therapist, Concierge and Housekeeper who will take care of their every need.

Set across three floors and spanning 944m², the palace sleeps 15 guests in nine bedrooms and can seat all guests for private meals in the intimate dining area. The signature suite, formerly the hotel’s Van Loon Suite, showcases sweeping city views, Neo-Renaissance interiors and original architectural features including a 17th century spiral staircase.

With a €1,000 daily food and beverage credit and their own personal Chef, guests have full flexibility to order any food and beverage they desire. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam is also home to four restaurants and bars including the two-Michelin star restaurant Spectrum.

Guests can enjoy special dishes prepared by Chef Sidney Schutte and his Team in the privacy of the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam’s multi award

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winning spa can be accessed directly from The Mayor’s Residence. Guests of the residence can book unlimited treatments throughout their stay and will have sole use of the spa to ensure their privacy, including its three treatment rooms, indoor pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation room.

Located in the heart of Amsterdam on the iconic Gentleman’s Canal, The Mayor’s Residence at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam combines timeless Dutch history with legendary True Waldorf Service. Guests can explore the area with VIP transport options, private museum tours, exclusive theatre tickets and many more private experiences all arranged via their personal concierge.

The Mayor’s Residence comes with a dedicated team including a butler, personal chef, spa therapist, concierge and housekeeper.

To book or learn more, head over to www.luxurysuites.hilton.com and search for the Mayors Residence or contact hotel reservations directly on +31 20 718 4600.

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COMO Cocoa Island reopened on the 1st September 2020 Following an extensive renovation earlier this year, the multi-award winning COMO Cocoa Island is delighted to welcome guests from September 1st.

Boutique in size and personal in approach, COMO Cocoa Island is perched on the Maldives’ South Male Atoll, one of the quietest and most undisturbed areas of the archipelago.

The luxurious island dwelling had reopened in January following an extension renovation on its 34 overwater villas and suites – many of which are uniquely modelled after traditional Dhoni boats – and a renewed focus on its holistic wellbeing concept, COMO Shambhala Retreat.

A third of the private island is now occupied by the COMO Shambhala Retreat, and facilities have been spread out to give guests even more time and space to focus on their wellbeing – lending itself to physical distancing.

A new Pilates Studio and open-sided yoga pavilion (with striking views of the lagoon) accompany one of the only hydrotherapy pools in the Maldives.

Positioned under the shade of swaying palms, two of the four treatment rooms have been expanded to accommodate couples, and the size of each room allows therapists to fulfil COMO Shambhala’s full and half-day treatment paths – including the Relaxation and Restoration paths - without moving guests from one room to another.

After spa therapies, dive with vibrant parrot fish, sharks and gliding manta rays, learn the power of meditation or take a personal training session on the sand, before dining on nutritious COMO Shambhala Cuisine at seafront Ufaa restaurant - a menu designed to restore balance with organic, vitaminrich ingredients. In the villas, natural materials embody COMO’s signature pared-back luxury across the rooms and suites, with Maldivian coral-rock walls, teak flooring and Kajan thatch roofing.

Soothing white-on-white interiors in the light-soaked rooms makes for a meditative space to relax, sleep and recover.

COMO Cocoa Island is a 40-minute speedboat transfer from Malé.

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Scott Dunn offers a 7 night stay at Como Cocoa Island, Maldives, starting from £2,700 per person, based on two people sharing a Dhoni Suite on a B&B basis with speedboat transfers and international flights. For more information please visit www.scottdunn.com or call on 020 3131 5723

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