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Thursday 25 April 2024

Hospitality & QSR

Nelson Airport seeks F&B operator
24 Apr 2024   /

Nelson Airport seeks F&B operator

Nelson Airport in New Zealand is seeking out new food and beverage operators to enhance the passenger experience.


Island Gelato Co in strategic grocery push
23 Apr 2024  

Island Gelato Co in strategic grocery push

Independent gelato manufacturer Island Gelato Co has started a strategic push into independent grocery gaining a listing in Farro as part of a five-year growth plan.


Popeyes’ NZ opening slated for 29 April
22 Apr 2024   /

Popeyes’ NZ opening slated for 29 April

US fried chicken chain Popeyes has circled Monday 29 April for the opening of its first New Zealand store in Takanini, Auckland.


DoorDash launches in Hamilton
17 Apr 2024  

DoorDash launches in Hamilton

Food delivery platform DoorDash has launched in Hamilton and Auckland satellite towns Pukekohe and the Hibiscus Coast, including Silverdale, Orewa, Red Beach, and Whangaparāoa.


Last chance for Hospitality Training Trust grant applications
17 Apr 2024   /

Last chance for Hospitality Training Trust grant applications

Hospitality Training Trust financial grant applications close on 28 April.


Menulog leaving NZ, cites lack of market scale
16 Apr 2024  

Menulog leaving NZ, cites lack of market scale

Online food delivery giant is shutting down its NZ operation, claiming the market size doesn’t support a “healthy business”.


Cooks Coffee brews up growth at Esquires
15 Apr 2024  

Cooks Coffee brews up growth at Esquires

The NZX-listed company is full steam ahead with growing its Esquires brand, adding more than 10 UK and Ireland outlets in the past year, as well as delivering sales growth.


Hospo spend up in March – Stats NZ
15 Apr 2024   /

Hospo spend up in March – Stats NZ

Spending in the hospitality category was $1.35m in March 2024, a 0.7% % increase compared with the same month last year, according to electronic card transaction data from Stats NZ.


NZ’s best gastropub named
11 Apr 2024   /

NZ’s best gastropub named

Auckland’s Fantail & Turtle has been named the supreme champion of the inaugural Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropubs at an awards ceremony in Auckland.


Thirty years for Consumer Guarantees Act
11 Apr 2024   /

Thirty years for Consumer Guarantees Act

Consumer New Zealand is asking shoppers to bone up on the Consumer Guarantees Act, which has now been in force for thirty years.


Industry leaders, Doocey head to inaugural Pacific Hospitality Forum
9 Apr 2024  

Industry leaders, Doocey head to inaugural Pacific Hospitality Forum

Hospitality industry leaders are in Auckland for the inaugural Pacific Hospitality Forum starting today at Cordis Auckland.


Good Group’s Australian restaurants in administration
5 Apr 2024   /

Good Group’s Australian restaurants in administration

Administrators have been tasked with assessing the future of a clutch of Australian restaurants controlled by the New Zealand group behind Botswana Butchery and White + Wong’s.


GSH delays dividend, delisting on IRD wait
3 Apr 2024   /

GSH delays dividend, delisting on IRD wait

Good Spirits Hospitality is still waiting on sign-off from Inland Revenue so it can pay a proposed dividend to investors following its asset sale, and delist from the NZX.


New CEO at Cooks Coffee
2 Apr 2024  

New CEO at Cooks Coffee

The NZX-listed coffee franchise group names Aiden Keegan its new chief executive, replacing Keith Jackson who moves to the sole role of executive chair.


Doocey to talk hospo, tourism in Timaru
28 Mar 2024   /

Doocey to talk hospo, tourism in Timaru

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey will speak at a morning tea event hosted by the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce next week.


Savor turnaround complete, earnings growth expected
27 Mar 2024  

Savor turnaround complete, earnings growth expected

Hospitality group Savor has declared an end to a five-year turnaround period, forecasting earnings growth in what will be its first full year without Moa or Covid-19 dragging its performance.


Peter Gordon’s Homeland in retreat after being made homeless
26 Mar 2024   /

Peter Gordon’s Homeland in retreat after being made homeless

The internationally renowned chef is being forced to rethink his Auckland restaurant and cooking school, with the premises slated for a major redevelopment.


Food services, accom among top providers of flexible work
26 Mar 2024   /

Food services, accom among top providers of flexible work

Subscribe now to enjoy unlimited access to Food Ticker, New Zealand’s new food and beverage industry trade daily. Thank you for visiting Food Ticker. Click here for our subscription packages. We MORE »


Coffee Club adds QR code table service
22 Mar 2024   /

Coffee Club adds QR code table service

The Coffee Club franchise group has launched table ordering via QR code in all its 67 cafes across New Zealand.


Weak F&B wholesale drags NZ into recession
21 Mar 2024   /

Weak F&B wholesale drags NZ into recession

Seasonally adjusted gross domestic product fell 0.1% in the three months ended December, according to Stats NZ, driven by weak consumer spending and wholesale trade.


Waiheke’s Tantalus pulled from market after bids fall short
20 Mar 2024   /

Waiheke’s Tantalus pulled from market after bids fall short

Waiheke Island’s Tantalus Estate Vineyard has been taken off the market, after bids for the property failed to meet expectations.


“It’s a heads down, butts up kind of year” – Service Foods’ Aneil Balar
18 Mar 2024  

“It’s a heads down, butts up kind of year” – Service Foods’ Aneil Balar

With inflation hitting its hospitality customers and few obvious acquisition targets, the MD says the wholesaler is focusing on improvement.


Economy, engagement, environment – Hospitality NZ unveils five-year plan
18 Mar 2024   /

Economy, engagement, environment – Hospitality NZ unveils five-year plan

Economic contribution, community engagement, and environmental sustainability are the foundations of a new strategy for the industry.


Cooks Coffee in $1.7m placement
15 Mar 2024  

Cooks Coffee in $1.7m placement

Cooks Coffee is undertaking a placement to selected investors to raise up to $1.7m, and a share purchase plan for its existing New Zealand-based shareholders.


Grand Millennium opens new hospo venues
14 Mar 2024   /

Grand Millennium opens new hospo venues

Grand Millennium Auckland hotel has opened two new hospitality venues.


Hospo spend rises to $1.3bn in Feb – Stats NZ
13 Mar 2024   /

Hospo spend rises to $1.3bn in Feb – Stats NZ

Consumer spending in hospitality was $1.27bn in February 2024, according to Stats NZ’s latest electronic card transaction data.


Perspectives: What we can learn from Wendy’s ‘surge pricing’ backlash
12 Mar 2024   /

Perspectives: What we can learn from Wendy’s ‘surge pricing’ backlash

The controversy over Wendy’s pricing strategies is an example of how online word-of-mouth can distort communications and create confusion.


Perspectives: What hospo needs to turn the tide on staff burnout
11 Mar 2024   /

Perspectives: What hospo needs to turn the tide on staff burnout

While the hospitality industry struggles with a skills shortage, researchers find that chefs in New Zealand and Australia face financial hardship and mental health challenges.


Panhead boss takes craft beer lessons to Hell
7 Mar 2024   /

Panhead boss takes craft beer lessons to Hell

Josh Drake joins the pizza franchise as CEO, saying he can bring lessons from the under-pressure craft brewery sector to the expanding QSR group.


Wakatipu Brewing faces liquidation hearing
7 Mar 2024   /

Wakatipu Brewing faces liquidation hearing

A hearing regarding an application to put hospitality company Wakatipu Brewing into liquidation will take place at High Court at Christchurch this month.


NZ’s top 50 gastropubs revealed
7 Mar 2024   /

NZ’s top 50 gastropubs revealed

Historic establishments and shiny newcomers are rubbing shoulders in the inaugural Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropub awards.


‘Landmark’ study links ultra-processed foods to damaging health conditions
1 Mar 2024   /

‘Landmark’ study links ultra-processed foods to damaging health conditions

The world’s largest review of its kind into UPFs finds direct links to 32 risks, including heart disease, cancer, and adverse mental health.


KFC partners with chef Hercules Noble on charity pop-up
29 Feb 2024   /

KFC partners with chef Hercules Noble on charity pop-up

KFC is partnering with chef Hercules Noble to launch a pop-on Auckland’s Ponsonby Road to raise money for charity partner, Surf Life Saving NZ.


Record sales for Restaurant Brands but profit halves…
26 Feb 2024   /

Record sales for Restaurant Brands but profit halves…

The group achieves record annual sales of $1.3bn but rising input costs and an increasing wages bill squeeze margins.


…as QSR competitor Tahua Partners moves on Popeyes
26 Feb 2024   /

…as QSR competitor Tahua Partners moves on Popeyes

Tahua Partners is expanding its brands on the high street with plans to invest around $25m to establish US fried chicken chain Popeyes in New Zealand.


Iconic Auckland Eats announced
22 Feb 2024  

Iconic Auckland Eats announced

The 2024 iteration of the Iconic Auckland Eats list has been released, featuring this year’s top 100 dishes in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as nominated by the public.


Foley Wines in rescue takeover of Toast Martinborough

Foley Wines in rescue takeover of Toast Martinborough

American billionaire Bill Foley has taken control of the 30-year old wine and food festival, Toast Martinborough.


Voting opens for NZ’s top gastropubs
15 Feb 2024  

Voting opens for NZ’s top gastropubs

The hunt is on for New Zealand’s best gastropubs in the inaugural Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropub Awards.


Fiso’s Hiakai closing doors, but evolution coming
14 Feb 2024  

Fiso’s Hiakai closing doors, but evolution coming

Wellington’s modern Māori fine dining restaurant, Hiakai, is closing in March but founder Monique Fiso and co-owner Katie Monteith expect more food projects will follow.


Krispy Kreme in donut giveaway for Swifties
14 Feb 2024  

Krispy Kreme in donut giveaway for Swifties

Krispy Kreme is launching an activation to tie in with Taylor Swift’s Era’s tour arriving in Australia, with the singer’s first concert on Friday 16 February.


DoorDash offers NZ restaurants disaster relief  grants
13 Feb 2024   /

DoorDash offers NZ restaurants disaster relief grants

New Zealand restaurants impacted by natural disasters can now apply for funding through the DoorDash Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund.


Grocery spend up, hospo down in Q4 – Kiwibank
12 Feb 2024   /

Grocery spend up, hospo down in Q4 – Kiwibank

The value and volume of spend at restaurants and bars decreased by more than 3% over the December 2023 quarter compared to the same period a year earlier, says KiwiBank.


Lord of the Fries for sale for $1.2m
9 Feb 2024   /

Lord of the Fries for sale for $1.2m

Vegan takeaway franchise business Lord of the Fries has been put up for sale with a $1.2m pricetag.


Drink-led hospo visits boosted by big occasions – NIQ
9 Feb 2024   /

Drink-led hospo visits boosted by big occasions – NIQ

While general and food-led visits were consistent throughout 2023, drink-led visits were less stable, according to the latest CGA by NIQ New Zealand Pulse+ Report into on-premise activity.


Domino’s charity now Minds & Meals
8 Feb 2024   /

Domino’s charity now Minds & Meals

Domino’s registered charity, previously known as Give for Good, has a new name and a new focus on youth mental health and disaster relief. 


Cooks Coffee shareholders shuffle holdings
7 Feb 2024  

Cooks Coffee shareholders shuffle holdings

JJY and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Weihai, have a total holding of 18.61% in Cooks Coffee.


Hospo spending falls over holidays – Worldline
5 Feb 2024   /

Hospo spending falls over holidays – Worldline

Consumer spending in the hospitality sector fell to $1.03bn in January 2023, down 1.4% compared to the same month in 2023, according to card spending data from Worldline.


Sahrawat reopens French Cafe, adds Anise
2 Feb 2024   /

Sahrawat reopens French Cafe, adds Anise

Chef and restaurateur Sid Sahrawat has reopened Auckland institution The French Café across the courtyard from its previous Symonds Street spot now occupied by a new venture, Anise.


Food deals approved: DB buyout, Sealord takeover, MHM sale secure OIO consent
1 Feb 2024   / /

Food deals approved: DB buyout, Sealord takeover, MHM sale secure OIO consent

Food and beverage acquisitions with pricetags potentially totalling around $500m have been signed off by the Overseas Investment Office.


Hospitality NZ in for digital overhaul
30 Jan 2024   /

Hospitality NZ in for digital overhaul

Hospitality New Zealand’s new five-year strategic plan includes ambitions to empower members with enhanced digital capability using data-driven insights and best-practice tactics.


Food services, accom filled jobs up 5%
30 Jan 2024   /

Food services, accom filled jobs up 5%

Filled jobs in accommodation and food services increased by 5.1% in December 2023 compared with the same month the previous year, according to Stats NZ.


Opposition grows to Burger Fuel payout plan
29 Jan 2024  

Opposition grows to Burger Fuel payout plan

A second shareholder is opposing Burger Fuel’s proposal to return $4.1m to shareholders of the company, which is majority-owned by co-founder Josef Roberts.


Restaurant Brands on track despite Q4 slowdown
25 Jan 2024  

Restaurant Brands on track despite Q4 slowdown

Restaurant Brands New Zealand saw its fourth-quarter sales stutter in its US territories, but says it remains on track to deliver its full-year profit target.


Queenstown Lakes food services, accom labour market grows
24 Jan 2024  

Queenstown Lakes food services, accom labour market grows

Wage growth in Queenstown Lakes’ food services and accommodation sector was up 7.9% in the 12 months to September 2023, according to a market snapshot report of the region.


Burger Fuel’s capital return plan challenged
22 Jan 2024  

Burger Fuel’s capital return plan challenged

A Burger Fuel shareholder is opposing the quick service restaurant group’s proposal to return $4.1m to shareholders of the group, which is majority owned by its founders.


SkyCity revives The Grill for 5-star Horizon
19 Jan 2024   /

SkyCity revives The Grill for 5-star Horizon

SkyCity is reopening its popular steakhouse The Grill inside its new 50-star Horizon hotel.


FPI: December growth drops below 5%
18 Jan 2024   /

FPI: December growth drops below 5%

Annual food price growth in December was the lowest it has been in two years, but still rose close to 5% thanks to more expensive restaurant meals and takeaways


2024 Beef + Lamb Ambassador finalists announced
18 Jan 2024   /

2024 Beef + Lamb Ambassador finalists announced

Fifteen chefs have been shortlisted for four Beef + Lamb Ambassador positions.


Former delivery driver is new NZ Domino’s GM
16 Jan 2024  

Former delivery driver is new NZ Domino’s GM

Domino’s has once again parachuted a new general manager into New Zealand from the Australian business, with the current country boss exiting after just 18 months.


Cooks Coffee’s Esquires trading solid
16 Jan 2024   /

Cooks Coffee’s Esquires trading solid

Cooks Coffee Company has reported a 15.8% increase in store sales at its Uk and Ireland franchise coffee chain, Esquires, in a trading update for the 2023 calendar year.


Restaurant Brands facing KFC class actions in Australia
15 Jan 2024   /

Restaurant Brands facing KFC class actions in Australia

A Restaurant Brands subsidiary is facing two class action lawsuits in Australia in respect of its KFC brand.


Good Spirits boss goes, loan in technical default
15 Jan 2024   /

Good Spirits boss goes, loan in technical default

Good Spirits Hospitality has defaulted on a loan while it continues its winding up of the business after the $20.7m sale of its eight operating venues to Brew on Quay last year.


Restaurant owners penalised $420k for migrant worker exploitation
15 Dec 2023   /

Restaurant owners penalised $420k for migrant worker exploitation

The former owners of two North Island restaurants who exploited migrant workers and breached numerous minimum employment standards have been ordered to pay more than $330,000 in penalties, compensation and arrears.


Food waste behaviour change pilot set for 2024

Food waste behaviour change pilot set for 2024

A food waste behaviour change pilot involving 120 cafes and restaurants across Auckland and the Bay of Plenty regions will get underway in February 2024.


Hop Federation opens new taproom
12 Dec 2023   /

Hop Federation opens new taproom

Motueka-based craft brewery Hop Federation has opened a new taproom in time for summer crowds in the region.


NZ outperforms wider Domino’s downturn
11 Dec 2023  

NZ outperforms wider Domino’s downturn

The NZ division of the global pizza franchise manages to skirt the rising costs and falling demand seen across the group.


Hospitality NZ launches inaugural gastropub awards…
11 Dec 2023   /

Hospitality NZ launches inaugural gastropub awards…

The search is on for New Zealand’s best gastropubs, with entries now open for the inaugural Estrella Damm Top 50 New Zealand Gastropub Awards.


Oro restaurant owner Kevin Carlin dies
7 Dec 2023   /

Oro restaurant owner Kevin Carlin dies

Queenstown-based hotel developer and restaurant operator Kevin Carlin has died suddenly, aged 69.


The Sahrawats shake-up Auckland offering…
7 Dec 2023   /

The Sahrawats shake-up Auckland offering…

Auckland restaurateurs Sid and Chand Sahrawat are opening a new pan-Asian restaurant in 2024, which will ring in some changes for its current Sid at the French Café fine dining concept.


…while Future Hospitality expands in Queenstown

…while Future Hospitality expands in Queenstown

Future Hospitality have opened a new restaurant in Queenstown adding a seventh outlet to the group.


Cooks Coffee take Triple Two balance sheet hit
1 Dec 2023  

Cooks Coffee take Triple Two balance sheet hit

Cooks Coffee has been pushed into the red in the half year after taking a $4.8m impairment against the investment made into its shuttered Triple Two brand.


Historic Monte Christo Winery opens
1 Dec 2023   /

Historic Monte Christo Winery opens

Central Otago’s Monte Christo Winery is now open to the public.


Domino’s donations reach 200k pizzas across ANZ
1 Dec 2023   /

Domino’s donations reach 200k pizzas across ANZ

Domino’s stores across Australia and New Zealand have donated 200,000 pizzas through the company’s three-year old Feed the Knead program.


New food, wine destination opening at $200m Ayrburn development
28 Nov 2023   /

New food, wine destination opening at $200m Ayrburn development

The cluster of hospitality venues near Queenstown are using a restored and repurposed 160-year-old farm.


Savor narrows interim loss as revenue jumps 40%
28 Nov 2023  

Savor narrows interim loss as revenue jumps 40%

Savor has reported a net loss after tax of $421,000 for the six months to September 2023, up 80.3% on the loss it reported for the same period last year.


Food services, accom jobs up in Oct – Stats NZ
28 Nov 2023   /

Food services, accom jobs up in Oct – Stats NZ

The number of filled jobs in accommodation and food services rose by 5.1% in October 2023, compared to the same month last year, according to Stats NZ.


Parkinson launches Piha restaurant
28 Nov 2023   /

Parkinson launches Piha restaurant

Chef and hospitality consultant Lucas Parkinson is opening his first Auckland restaurant on the site of the former Piha Cafe this weekend.


Elevation of hospo to govt portfolio deserved recognition for $14bn sector – industry
27 Nov 2023   /

Elevation of hospo to govt portfolio deserved recognition for $14bn sector – industry

The inclusion of hospitality alongside tourism in a government portfolio is deserved recognition of a $14bn sector, say industry groups.


Food tops bartenders for on-premise experience – CGA
22 Nov 2023  

Food tops bartenders for on-premise experience – CGA

The quality of the food is the most valued characteristic for an on-premise experience amongst all age groups, according to CGA by NielsenIQ’s latest New Zealand Pulse+ Report.


Domino’s engineers e-bike delivery
16 Nov 2023  

Domino’s engineers e-bike delivery

Domino’s is adding purpose-built e-bikes to its delivery arsenal.


Uber Eats expands in NZ to 17 regions
15 Nov 2023  

Uber Eats expands in NZ to 17 regions

Uber Eats has added a handful of new cities to its New Zealand footprint, taking its total to 17 locations.


Burger Fuel sets date for $4m payout vote
15 Nov 2023  

Burger Fuel sets date for $4m payout vote

Burger Fuel Group will hold a special meeting of shareholders on Thursday 14 December 2023 to vote on its proposed return of capital.


Crowdfunding success for F&B ventures
13 Nov 2023  

Crowdfunding success for F&B ventures

Yeast supplier Froth Technologies has successfully raised its target of $10,000 to support the development of a range of home brew yeast pouches.


Triple win for Coffee Club at franchise awards
13 Nov 2023   /

Triple win for Coffee Club at franchise awards

The Coffee Club franchise brand has won a trio of gongs at the Westpac New Zealand Franchise Awards 2023.


Foodprint expands to Bay of Plenty
10 Nov 2023  

Foodprint expands to Bay of Plenty

Food rescue app Foodprint arrives in the Bay of Plenty.


Lindis Group teases Black Diamond dining experience
10 Nov 2023   /

Lindis Group teases Black Diamond dining experience

The Lindis Group has teased the launch of a new private dining experience called The Black Diamond.


Heineken releases ‘taste kits’ to help Kiwi drinkers understand flavour
9 Nov 2023   /

Heineken releases ‘taste kits’ to help Kiwi drinkers understand flavour

Heineken has joined forces with geneticist Andrew Shelling to develop a taste kit that allows beer enthusiasts to understand the science behind their flavour preferences.


Cost of living crisis pressuring hospo

Cost of living crisis pressuring hospo

The Restaurant Association is receiving growing feedback from businesses about decreased patronage, which, combined with the escalating costs of goods and labour, is significantly affecting the industry.


Wahlburgers opens in Queenstown, more planned
8 Nov 2023  

Wahlburgers opens in Queenstown, more planned

Wahlburgers, the quick service restaurant chain founded by actor Mark Wahlberg has opened today in Queenstown – the franchise’s second New Zealand location after Auckland.


GSH payout slated for early December
7 Nov 2023  

GSH payout slated for early December

Good Spirits Hospitality is set to make its $600,000 shareholder payout on 5 December 2023.


Strong demand for Te Kaha hospo space
7 Nov 2023  

Strong demand for Te Kaha hospo space

Venues Ōtautahi is reporting strong demand for premium hospitality spaces at Te Kaha Stadium in Christchurch.


DineAid Christmas campaign live
6 Nov 2023  

DineAid Christmas campaign live

More than 50 restaurants throughout the motu have signed on to participate in this year’s annual DineAid Christmas campaign to raise money for the City Missions in the lead-up to Christmas.


Cooks Coffee appoints Triple Two liquidators
3 Nov 2023  

Cooks Coffee appoints Triple Two liquidators

Cooks Coffee is to liquidate its Triple Two coffee franchise business, according to a note on UK’s Companies House which confirmed a voluntary liquidator had been appointed.


Cafe, restaurant spending slides – Worldline
3 Nov 2023   /

Cafe, restaurant spending slides – Worldline

Spending in cafes and restaurants weakened over October 2023, according to Worldline.


GSH going ahead with $600k shareholder payout
1 Nov 2023   /

GSH going ahead with $600k shareholder payout

Good Spirits Hospitality is going ahead with a payout of $600k to its shareholders related to its asset sale, despite it being technically voted down via a conditional resolution last week.


Burger Fuel $4m shareholder payout plan detailed
31 Oct 2023  

Burger Fuel $4m shareholder payout plan detailed

Burger Fuel has secured initial terms from the High Court for its proposed return of approximately $4.1m to shareholders.


Rugby World Cup delivers for NZ hospo
30 Oct 2023  

Rugby World Cup delivers for NZ hospo

The Rugby World Cup delivered a “significant boost” to hospitality venues, according to Hospitality New Zealand, which said footfall was up over the 50-day tournament.


Filled hospo, accom jobs up 6% in Sept
30 Oct 2023   /

Filled hospo, accom jobs up 6% in Sept

The number of filled jobs in accommodation and food services rose by 9,075 or 6% in September compared with the same month a year earlier.


Burger Fuel founders quids in with $4m shareholder return, GSH shareholders not
27 Oct 2023   /

Burger Fuel founders quids in with $4m shareholder return, GSH shareholders not

Burger Fuel shareholders are in line for a $4m payout related to a proposed tie-up with Subway that never came to pass.


Uber Eats dials up 1987 prices for RWC final
27 Oct 2023   /

Uber Eats dials up 1987 prices for RWC final

Uber Eats is running a promotion to tie-in with the Rugby World Cup final which will see it offer four key menu items at roughly 1987 prices – being the year the All Blacks first won the tournament.


Restaurant Brands sales up in Q3
25 Oct 2023  

Restaurant Brands sales up in Q3

Restaurant Brands has reported increasing sales in a third-quarter trading update, but there is no word on how its bottom line is faring following a first half when profit plummeted on rising costs.


Cooks Coffee appoints Triple Two administrators, distances Esquires
25 Oct 2023  

Cooks Coffee appoints Triple Two administrators, distances Esquires

Cooks Coffee has appointed RSM UK Restructuring Advisory as administrators to its Triple Two coffee franchise business.


Hospitality industry optimistic following election result – RANZ
19 Oct 2023   /

Hospitality industry optimistic following election result – RANZ

A post-election sentiment survey of Restaurant Association of New Zealand members has shown optimism at the change of government to a National-led coalition.


Eat.Taste.Central heading back to Otago
18 Oct 2023   /

Eat.Taste.Central heading back to Otago

Central Otago’s annual food and beverage celebration, Eat.Taste.Central, is back for another two-week festival of flavour showcasing the best of the region’s food and wine.


Canterbury hospo celebrates top dining spots, industry achievement
17 Oct 2023   /

Canterbury hospo celebrates top dining spots, industry achievement

Waipara restaurant, cellar door and winery, Black Estate, has won the Supreme Establishment award and Outstanding Regional Establishment at the Canterbury Hospitality Awards.


NZABC backs Wellington bar owners’ complaints
13 Oct 2023   /

NZABC backs Wellington bar owners’ complaints

The NZ Alcohol Beverages Council has come out in support of a group of Wellington bar owners who have joined together to fight against what they call unfair treatment by liquor licence agencies.


Iconic Auckland Eats nominations open
12 Oct 2023  

Iconic Auckland Eats nominations open

Iconic Auckland Eats, the annual list of the top 100 dishes in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, opens for nominations on Tuesday, 17 October.


Dunedin winner in Lee Kum Kee NZ Developing Chefs challenge
11 Oct 2023   /

Dunedin winner in Lee Kum Kee NZ Developing Chefs challenge

Dunedin chef Quiel Mallari has taken out top place at the Lee Kum Kee New Zealand Developing Chefs Challenge 2023.


GSH shareholders to get $600k from sale
10 Oct 2023  

GSH shareholders to get $600k from sale

Good Spirits Hospitality’s lender has approved the distribution of a $600k dividend to shareholders following the sale of the company’s assets.


QLDC lifts boil water notice for Frankton, Kelvin Heights
5 Oct 2023  

QLDC lifts boil water notice for Frankton, Kelvin Heights

Queenstown Lakes District Council has lifted its boil water notice for its Kelvin Heights water distribution zone, with immediate effect.


Hospo salaries rise 8% in Q3
5 Oct 2023   /

Hospo salaries rise 8% in Q3

The average salary in hospitality and tourism totalled $61,607 in Q3 2023, up 8% from the same period last year, according to data from Trade Me Jobs.


Nelson hospitality award winners revealed
4 Oct 2023   /

Nelson hospitality award winners revealed

Hardy St Eatery has been named the Supreme Establishment at the Nelson Hospitality Awards.


GSH to delist, deregister after venues sold
3 Oct 2023  

GSH to delist, deregister after venues sold

Good Spirits Hospitality will be no more after it completes the $20.7m sale of its eight operating venues to Brew on Quay.


Monteith’s Brewery Bar for sale
2 Oct 2023   /

Monteith’s Brewery Bar for sale

Central Otago hospitality business Monteith’s Brewery Bar in Alexandra has been put up for sale.


Hospo data masks mixed results – Restaurant Association
29 Sep 2023  

Hospo data masks mixed results – Restaurant Association

The 9.8% growth in sales reported in quarter two hospitality data from Stats NZ should be read with caution, as it masks significant challenged faced by the sector, according to the Restaurant Association.


New era, new strategy for Hospitality NZ’s Steve Armitage
28 Sep 2023  

New era, new strategy for Hospitality NZ’s Steve Armitage

A new strategy for Hospitality New Zealand and more integration with businesses and stakeholders are top of the agenda for the association’s new chief executive, Steve Armitage.


Food retailer, QSR brands head to Westgate development
28 Sep 2023   /

Food retailer, QSR brands head to Westgate development

A new Asian supermarket and a handful of quick service brands are heading to a retail development in Auckland’s Westgate, where US retail giant Costco opened its first New Zealand store.


Christchurch puts call out for food trucks
27 Sep 2023   /

Christchurch puts call out for food trucks

Christchurch City Council is calling for registrations of interest to operate mobile food truck or trailers at allocated sites throughout the greater Christchurch and Banks Peninsula areas.


Cooks Coffee calls in administrators for Triple Two
26 Sep 2023  

Cooks Coffee calls in administrators for Triple Two

After a post-Covid bounce, the UK coffee chain franchise lost momentum, says Cooks Coffee, which is pushing on with its other brand Esquires.


Hospo, tourism job ads jump 20% in August
26 Sep 2023  

Hospo, tourism job ads jump 20% in August

Hospitality and tourism job advertisements jumped 20% in August 2023 compared with the previous month, according to SEEK’s latest Employment Report.


Coffee Supreme do-over in Christchurch
22 Sep 2023  

Coffee Supreme do-over in Christchurch

Supreme Coffee is overhauling the former South Town Club cafe in Christchurch.


QLDC shares cryptosporidium outbreak information
20 Sep 2023   /

QLDC shares cryptosporidium outbreak information

The Queenstown Lakes District Council has set up a dedicated page on its website with advice and information on the Cryptosporidium outbreak.


Restaurant Association launches Engaging Rangatahi initiative
20 Sep 2023  

Restaurant Association launches Engaging Rangatahi initiative

The Restaurant Association has launched its Engaging Rangatahi initiative.


Hotels deploy water workarounds in Queenstown
19 Sep 2023   /

Hotels deploy water workarounds in Queenstown

Operators also say they have seen an unusually high number of staff sick in recent days, although the exact cause is unknown.


Foodprint spreads to South Canterbury
19 Sep 2023  

Foodprint spreads to South Canterbury

New Zealand food rescue app, Foodprint, is available in the South Canterbury towns of Lincoln, Ashburton and Timaru from today.


Subway launches new in-app delivery service
15 Sep 2023   /

Subway launches new in-app delivery service

Subway has launched an in-app delivery service, Subway Delivers.


Wellington chef wins inaugural Visa scholarship
14 Sep 2023  

Wellington chef wins inaugural Visa scholarship

Chef Joshua Ross of Wellington has been named the inaugural winner of the 2023 Visa New Zealand Hospitality Scholarship.


Majestic at Mayfair leads Canterbury hospo nods
13 Sep 2023   /

Majestic at Mayfair leads Canterbury hospo nods

The newly established boutique luxury hotel, Majestic at Mayfair, is leading the way with five nominations in this year’s Canterbury Hospitality awards.


Burger Fuel putting hand in pocket for greenfield franchisees
8 Sep 2023  

Burger Fuel putting hand in pocket for greenfield franchisees

The QSR group is looking at options to continue expanding its footprint in NZ after new franchisee demand dwindles in the tough economic climate.


Hospo provider to pay $34k over employment breaches
6 Sep 2023  

Hospo provider to pay $34k over employment breaches

Christchurch hospitality and accommodation provider Springs Junction Café and Motor Inn has been ordered to pay $36,000 for breaching multiple employment standards during the 2020 Covid pandemic.


Burger Wellington has a winner
5 Sep 2023  

Burger Wellington has a winner

The winner of Burger Wellington presented by Garage Project 2023 is One80 Restaurant with their Goan Chicken Ros Pao burger.


Restaurant Association launches roadshow

Restaurant Association launches roadshow

The Restaurant Association has launched the Te Tai Tokerau Roadshow, which comprises a series of seminars designed to address crucial topics within the hospitality sector.


GSH aiming for Q4 sale
29 Aug 2023  

GSH aiming for Q4 sale

Good Spirits Hospitality is on track to complete its $20.7m conditional sale to Brew on Quay in the fourth quarter, having received sign off from its lender and 24.99% owner Pacific Dawn.


Restaurant Brands ‘fine-tuning operations’ after sharp fall in profit
28 Aug 2023  

Restaurant Brands ‘fine-tuning operations’ after sharp fall in profit

The QSR operator says it is pulling out all the operational stops to improve profitability, as the economic environment hampers cost recovery through price rises.


“Rushed” alcohol bill riles industry
25 Aug 2023   /

“Rushed” alcohol bill riles industry

Alcohol sector stakeholders say the passing of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Community Participation) Bill could be devastating for breweries and tap rooms across New Zealand.


Work-from-home trend, cost increases plague Wishbone, creditors owed $2.3m+
22 Aug 2023   /

Work-from-home trend, cost increases plague Wishbone, creditors owed $2.3m+

Food manufacturer and retailer Wishbone ran out of road owing creditors more than $2.3m as sales declined and costs ramped up, according to the first liquidators report for its parent company.


‘Tales from the pass’ hospo podcast series launched
22 Aug 2023  

‘Tales from the pass’ hospo podcast series launched

A new podcast series offering listeners insight into Aotearoa’s culinary scene has been launched by the Restaurant Association, with support from the Hospitality Training Trust.


Columbus Coffee backs Better Chicken, tops ranking report

Columbus Coffee backs Better Chicken, tops ranking report

The country’s largest dedicated coffee chain, Columbus Coffee, is the latest brand to sign the Australia-New Zealand Better Chicken Commitment for its 75 café locations.


Rotorua names its top places to dine
14 Aug 2023   /

Rotorua names its top places to dine

Eat Street’s Atticus Finch was cream of the crop at the Rotorua Hospitality Awards on Sunday night, taking out three awards including the supreme establishment award.


Industry calls for changes to bring NZ in line on beer tax
10 Aug 2023   /

Industry calls for changes to bring NZ in line on beer tax

The Brewers Association of New Zealand, Brewers Guild of New Zealand and Hospitality New Zealand have jointly called on the government to freeze excise on beer in 2023 and introduce a new lower rate on keg beer.


Burger Wellington on the menu from tomorrow
10 Aug 2023   /

Burger Wellington on the menu from tomorrow

Burger Wellington presented by Garage Project is set to take over the capital starting tomorrow as part of the August Edition of Visa Wellington On a Plate. 


Casual dining top choice for Kiwis on holiday
9 Aug 2023   /

Casual dining top choice for Kiwis on holiday

Dining across on-premise experiences, casual restaurants and in-room are popular choices for Kiwis on holiday, according to new data from CGA by Nielsen IQ.


Payment fee regulation to save businesses $105m  – ComCom
8 Aug 2023   /

Payment fee regulation to save businesses $105m – ComCom

Businesses in New Zealand will save an estimated $105m each year by a reduction in fees to accept Mastercard and Visa payments, according to the Commerce Commission.


Restaurant Brands downgrades guidance as costs drag
7 Aug 2023   /

Restaurant Brands downgrades guidance as costs drag

Rising input costs, particularly for ingredients and wages in NZ, are hitting Restaurant Brands’ bottom line.


Cellar door sales bill introduced in Parliament
4 Aug 2023   /

Cellar door sales bill introduced in Parliament

A members’ bill to make it easier for wineries to sell samples at the cellar door has had its first reading in Parliament.


GSH trying for shareholder payout
3 Aug 2023  

GSH trying for shareholder payout

Good Spirits Hospitality is asking its lender to permit a payout to shareholders from the proceeds of its sale, even though its disposal price is less than its debt pile.


CEO and Sigley lead $21m buyout of GSH
2 Aug 2023   /

CEO and Sigley lead $21m buyout of GSH

Good Spirits Hospitality’s Geoff Tuttle and Nourish Group founder Richard Sigley are part of the group buying the nine-strong portfolio.


125 NZ wineries in the running for Air NZ ticket
31 Jul 2023   /

125 NZ wineries in the running for Air NZ ticket

Some 125 New Zealand wineries are in the running to be selected for Air New Zealand’s business premier cabins and some lounges.


No excise price rise at Sprig + Fern
28 Jul 2023   /

No excise price rise at Sprig + Fern

Nelson’s Sprig + Fern Brewing Co says it will not put prices up despite the government’s recent increase in alcohol excise tax.


The F&B brands owed money by liquidated ski field operator RAL
27 Jul 2023   /

The F&B brands owed money by liquidated ski field operator RAL

A number of large and small food and beverage firms have been listed as creditors of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts.


NZVC acquires Auckland hospo venues
26 Jul 2023   /

NZVC acquires Auckland hospo venues

New Zealand Venue Co has bought the Morningside Tavern and neighbouring event space, Glasshouse, in Auckland.


Hospo gives RWC licensing rules thumbs up
24 Jul 2023   /

Hospo gives RWC licensing rules thumbs up

Hospitality New Zealand has welcomed legislation that allows venues to extend trading hours without having to apply for a special licence so patrons can watch live televised Rugby World Cup matches.


Hospo can open longer for Rugby World Cup
20 Jul 2023  

Hospo can open longer for Rugby World Cup

Hospitality businesses can open longer for the men’s Rugby World Cup after the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Rugby World Cup 2023 Extended Trading Hours) Amendment Bill passed its third reading.


Cardrona dedicates new food truck to staff member
19 Jul 2023  

Cardrona dedicates new food truck to staff member

Cardrona Alpine Resort has launched a new food venture and named it ‘Carol’s’ in recognition of a long-serving staff member.


SkyCity to open Pacific-inspired restaurant
13 Jul 2023   /

SkyCity to open Pacific-inspired restaurant

SkyCity will open a new Pacific-inspired restaurant in October headed by chef Michael Meredith.


Savor preps for ASM
13 Jul 2023  

Savor preps for ASM

Savor has confirmed key details of its upcoming Annual Shareholders’ Meeting and nomination of directors.


Lake Dunstan trail’s floating hospo outlets up for sale
12 Jul 2023  

Lake Dunstan trail’s floating hospo outlets up for sale

The unique floating coffee and burger stop on the popular Lake Dunstan Cycle and Walking Trail is up for sale.


Channel visitation habits change with the seasons in NZ – report
7 Jul 2023   /

Channel visitation habits change with the seasons in NZ – report

Two thirds of consumers in New Zealand change their visitation habits based on the time of year, according to the latest CGA Consumer Pulse Report.


Auckland’s Restaurant Month is back for August
7 Jul 2023   /

Auckland’s Restaurant Month is back for August

Auckland’s Restaurant Month is back from 1-31 August 2023.


DoorDash launches in Auckland
6 Jul 2023  

DoorDash launches in Auckland

DoorDash is launching in Auckland in a move the company said marks a significant milestone in its expansion in New Zealand.


“We were in shock and awe” – the one thing Julie White would have done differently
5 Jul 2023   /

“We were in shock and awe” – the one thing Julie White would have done differently

After steering Hospitality NZ through the pandemic, White signs off on an ’empty tank’ but with high hopes for the resilient industry.


Final bids in for GSH venues
5 Jul 2023   /

Final bids in for GSH venues

Good Spirits Hospitality has received final bids as part of the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio of venues.


The four reasons NZ’s economic slowdown is moderating – Treasury’s Dominick Stephens
4 Jul 2023   /

The four reasons NZ’s economic slowdown is moderating – Treasury’s Dominick Stephens

The repairs following the summer storms and tourism recovering much faster than expected are among the four reasons New Zealand’s economic slowdown is not as bad as expected, says Dominick Stephens.


Kaiser Brew Garden reigns supreme at Hospitality Awards
29 Jun 2023   /

Kaiser Brew Garden reigns supreme at Hospitality Awards

Botswana Butchery Queenstown wins best restaurant and industry veteran Tony Crosbie is inducted into the Hospitality Hall of Fame.


SkyCity, Gilmours, Craggy Range leaders win hospitality awards
28 Jun 2023   /

SkyCity, Gilmours, Craggy Range leaders win hospitality awards

SkyCity Entertainment’s general manager of Auckland hospitality, David Allot, has been named the Hospitality Industry Leader of the Year.


Disruption dissipating for Cooks Coffee
27 Jun 2023  

Disruption dissipating for Cooks Coffee

Cooks Coffee is expecting strong store growth in the 2024 financial year, after a year marred by supply chain disruption which also saw its financial performance dip.


Industry converges on Auckland for sold-out Hospitality NZ, Maximum Occupancy conferences
27 Jun 2023  

Industry converges on Auckland for sold-out Hospitality NZ, Maximum Occupancy conferences

It marks the end of Julie White’s tenure as CEO of Hospitality NZ, with Steve Armitage taking over.


Hospo minister on industry election wishlist
22 Jun 2023   /

Hospo minister on industry election wishlist

A Minister of Hospitality is just one of seven asks the hospitality industry has of whatever government is elected on October 14.


Final bids expected “shortly” for GSH
21 Jun 2023   /

Final bids expected “shortly” for GSH

Good Spirits Hospitality is expecting final bids shortly as part of the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio.


Hospitality NZ applies to be bargaining agent for industry of 120k workers
20 Jun 2023   /

Hospitality NZ applies to be bargaining agent for industry of 120k workers

Hospitality New Zealand has applied to become the bargaining agent for hospitality employers, which would see it enter negotiations on an industry pay arrangement under the Fair Pay Agreements Act.


Invest South, MAI back Mat Weir’s First Table
19 Jun 2023  

Invest South, MAI back Mat Weir’s First Table

Invest South and Mainland Angel Investors have invested in Frist Table, bringing the Queenstown-based venture’s capital raise to $3.5m.


Speakers named for Hospitality NZ conference
14 Jun 2023  

Speakers named for Hospitality NZ conference

Australian industry stalwart Sam Egerton will be speaking at Hospitality New Zealand’s conference, alongside others including Kevin Biggar, Melissa Muirhead, Ashley Fell, and Dan Te Whenua Walker.


Hospo spending tops $1bn in May – Stats NZ
13 Jun 2023   /

Hospo spending tops $1bn in May – Stats NZ

Card spending in the hospitality industry rose to $1.18bn in May 2023, up 7.6% compared with the same month last year, according to Stats NZ.


Hospo business confidence low – RANZ

Hospo business confidence low – RANZ

New Zealand hospitality businesses are feeling increasingly pessimistic about the state of the economy, according to the latest survey conducted by the Restaurant Association of New Zealand.


McDonald’s NZ profit, revenue, dividends jump
9 Jun 2023  

McDonald’s NZ profit, revenue, dividends jump

McDonald’s Restaurants’ New Zealand business saw revenue jump to $304.99m in the year to December 2022, up 21.3% from the previous year.


Hospo leads rise in filled jobs for March quarter
9 Jun 2023   /

Hospo leads rise in filled jobs for March quarter

The hospitality sector has led an increase in the number of filled jobs for the March 2023 quarter, according to Stats NZ.


Hospitality NZ appoints former Auckland tourism boss its CEO
6 Jun 2023   /

Hospitality NZ appoints former Auckland tourism boss its CEO

Former Auckland destination boss and Business Events Industry Aotearoa’s chair, Steve Armitage, has been appointed Hospitality New Zealand’s new chief executive.


Profit jumps at Burger Fuel with sales back to pre-Covid levels
31 May 2023  

Profit jumps at Burger Fuel with sales back to pre-Covid levels

Burger Fuel Group has reported a preliminary net profit after tax of $900,418 for the 12 months to 31 March 2023, up 56.3% on the previous year. 


RA ready to negotiate Fair Pay Agreement

RA ready to negotiate Fair Pay Agreement

The Restaurant Association said it is ready to come to the bargaining table to reach a Fair Pay Agreement for the hospitality sector “that works for both employers and workers”.


Reusable milk keg scheme on offer for hospo
31 May 2023   /

Reusable milk keg scheme on offer for hospo

Tasmanian company The Udder Way has partnered with Waikato owned and operated Green Valley Dairies to launch a reusable milk keg for hospitality operators.


Neo Café makes it two in a row at Dine Wellington
31 May 2023  

Neo Café makes it two in a row at Dine Wellington

Neo Café & Eatery and Pravda Café & Grill were the big winners in the 2023 Visa Wellington On a Plate Festival Awards.


Filled hospo jobs up 12%
30 May 2023   /

Filled hospo jobs up 12%

The number of filled jobs in accommodation and food services rose by 17,138 in April 2023, up 12.2% on the same month last year.


Partners-based work visas changed
29 May 2023   /

Partners-based work visas changed

Immigration NZ has made changes to visa conditions for new Partner of Worker Work Visas which may affect hospitality employers, according to the Restaurant Association.


SkyCity, Moët Hennessy to open NZ’s highest bar
26 May 2023   /

SkyCity, Moët Hennessy to open NZ’s highest bar

SkyCity is opening New Zealand’s highest bar in partnership with champagne brand Moët & Chandon.


Savor savours 70% earnings jump, narrows loss
25 May 2023  

Savor savours 70% earnings jump, narrows loss

Auckland hospitality group Savor’s revenue rose 70% to $52.4m for the year to March 2023, with EBITDA also jumping 70% compared to the previous 12 months to $5.2m.


Craggy Range leads Hospitality NZ Awards nominations, 120 finalists revealed
24 May 2023   /

Craggy Range leads Hospitality NZ Awards nominations, 120 finalists revealed

Hawke’s Bay’s Craggy Range, Christchurch’s Kaiser Brew Garden, and Queenstown’s Kamana Lakehouse lead the nominations in the 2023 Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence.


Q1 retail activity down, F&B sales up – Stats NZ
24 May 2023   /

Q1 retail activity down, F&B sales up – Stats NZ

The total volume of actual retail sales fell 4.1% in the March 2023 quarter, compared with the March 2022 quarter, according to Stats NZ today.


Hospo Hui to chart future of NZ hospitality
23 May 2023   /

Hospo Hui to chart future of NZ hospitality

The Hospo Hui will bring together leaders in New Zealand food and hospitality to help chart the future of the industry.


Hospo disappointed with Budget’s business impact
22 May 2023   /

Hospo disappointed with Budget’s business impact

Hospitality New Zealand says the government’s Wellbeing Budget 2023 does not do enough to support small businesses.


Visa WOAP crowns next gen cook off winner
19 May 2023  

Visa WOAP crowns next gen cook off winner

Chef Celia Drummond of Floriditas won the Visa Wellington On a Plate’s Next Gen Cook Off.


“Good interest for bidders” in GSH sale
17 May 2023   /

“Good interest for bidders” in GSH sale

The under pressure Auckland hospitality group reports “good interest” from potential buyers as the sales process for its nine-strong portfolio grinds on.


Hell serves up 22 May pizza bitcoin promo
17 May 2023   /

Hell serves up 22 May pizza bitcoin promo

Hell Pizza is launching a campaign based on a 2022 purchase that saw Florida man Laszlo Hanyecz pay 10,000 bitcoin for two pizzas – a transaction that would be worth NZ$436m today.


Auckland food tour for MasterChef UK judge
17 May 2023  

Auckland food tour for MasterChef UK judge

MasterChef UK judge William Sitwell is touring Auckland this week to sample the city’s fine dining and food experiences.


The Trusts in $40m hospo expansion plan
16 May 2023   /

The Trusts in $40m hospo expansion plan

West Auckland licensing trust group, The Trusts, is planning to invest $40m to expand its hospitality and liquor store infrastructure.


Hospo urged to adopt sustainability as consumer demand rises
15 May 2023   /

Hospo urged to adopt sustainability as consumer demand rises

Sustainable and ethical practices are increasingly influencing consumers’ choices in the hospitality industry, according to the latest CGA data by NIQ’s New Zealand On Premise Consumer Pulse Report.


New York’s Chip Klose coming to Hospo Hui 2023
12 May 2023   /

New York’s Chip Klose coming to Hospo Hui 2023

Renowned international restaurant consultant, Chip Klose, has been announced as the keynote speaker for Hospo Hui 2023.


F&B players linked to Ruapehu deal
12 May 2023  

F&B players linked to Ruapehu deal

Food system stakeholders have been linked to the sales process surrounding Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which ran the Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields, and went into voluntary administration in October.


Mānawa Bay to be NZ’s first gas-free foodcourt
11 May 2023   /

Mānawa Bay to be NZ’s first gas-free foodcourt

The Mānawa Bay premium shopping destination near Auckland Airport will be home to the country’s first fully electric foodcourt, with no gas facilities on site.


The Kitchen Collective opts for consolidation over expansion
10 May 2023  

The Kitchen Collective opts for consolidation over expansion

Auckland’s first ghost kitchen operates at the front line of fledgling hospitality and food firms, where current challenges are impacting both tenants and the company’s own growth.


Restaurant Brands makes SAP move
10 May 2023   /

Restaurant Brands makes SAP move

Food franchisee Restaurant Brands said it has a single, consistent Enterprise Resource Planning system for the first time, after implementing new software solutions from German company SAP.


Griffin’s Proper deal spices up Q1 M&A
9 May 2023   /

Griffin’s Proper deal spices up Q1 M&A

M&A activity in NZ remained steady in the first quarter despite economic headwinds, according to PwC, with some high-profile food players spicing up activity.


GSH lenders defer interest payment – again
3 May 2023   /

GSH lenders defer interest payment – again

Lenders to Good Spirits Hospitality have once again deferred a March quarter interest payment, as it pursues a sale of the business.


ComCom lays out preliminary issues with Reward, Southern Hospitality deal

ComCom lays out preliminary issues with Reward, Southern Hospitality deal

The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to an application from Reward Supply Co Pty Limited seeking clearance to acquire Southern Hospitality Limited.


DB’s Star Hospitality deal completes
1 May 2023   /

DB’s Star Hospitality deal completes

DB Breweries has completed a deal which creates what it says is the largest hospitality group in the country, Star Hospitality.


Food services, accom jobs rise 13%
1 May 2023   /

Food services, accom jobs rise 13%

The number of filled jobs in the accommodation and food services sector reached 18,101 in March 2023, up 12.9% on the same month last year, according to Stats NZ.


Restaurant Brands sales up 12% in Q1
24 Apr 2023  

Restaurant Brands sales up 12% in Q1

New Zealand Q1 sales jump 9.2%, with Australia delivering the best regional numbers for the QSR group.


New $30k hospo scholarship launched by Visa
20 Apr 2023   /

New $30k hospo scholarship launched by Visa

Visa, supported by Visa Wellington on a Plate, is launching a new hospitality industry scholarship open to candidates across New Zealand, valued at NZD $30,000. 


First Table capital raise passes $1m
18 Apr 2023  

First Table capital raise passes $1m

Hospitality technology platform First Table has passed the $1m in its capital raise after extending the length of time of the offer.


InterContinental launches GPO
17 Apr 2023  

InterContinental launches GPO

InterContinental Wellington has launched GPO, a new restaurant that pays homage to the iconic General Post Office that once occupied the same site.


DoorDash $1 deals in Wellington and Christchurch
14 Apr 2023  

DoorDash $1 deals in Wellington and Christchurch

DoorDash has teamed up with some Wellington and Christchurch eateries to create a campaign providing $1 menu items this weekend.


Nourish Group gets new name, exec chef
12 Apr 2023   /

Nourish Group gets new name, exec chef

Foley Holdings has renamed Nourish Group as Foley Hospitality and appointed a national executive chef across its 10 restaurants and bars.


ANZ backs WOAP Producer Marketplace return
6 Apr 2023   /

ANZ backs WOAP Producer Marketplace return

Visa Wellington On a Plate’s Producer Marketplace will return to the capital on Monday 17 April after a two-year hiatus with the backing of ANZ.


Australia’s Reward buying Southern Hospitality
6 Apr 2023  

Australia’s Reward buying Southern Hospitality

Australian hospitality supplier Reward Supply Co is seeking Commerce Commission clearance to take 100% ownership of Southern Hospitality.


NZ’s ‘biggest dinner party’ raises $370k for cyclone relief

NZ’s ‘biggest dinner party’ raises $370k for cyclone relief

Hospitality businesses across the country raised $370,000 from the nation’s biggest dinner party on 20 March to support those impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.


Good Spirits lender defers interest date
3 Apr 2023  

Good Spirits lender defers interest date

Good Spirits Hospitality has been given extra time from its lender to make an interest payment as it continues with an asset sell-down.


Addressing skills shortage, NZ food story, new hospo minister priorities in RA manifesto

Addressing skills shortage, NZ food story, new hospo minister priorities in RA manifesto

Adjusting immigration settings and investing in training, a New Zealand food story, and a minister for hospitality are amongst the Restaurant Association’s priorities in its 2023 Election Manifesto.


Fresh Cuts: What’s new for the week to 24 March?
24 Mar 2023   /

Fresh Cuts: What’s new for the week to 24 March?

Duck Island partners with Coffee Supreme, Griffin’s brings back a Squiggles, Domino’s introduces a taste of India, and Lewis Road Creamery adds raspberry to the mix.


Menulog and RA renew partnership
24 Mar 2023   /

Menulog and RA renew partnership

Online food delivery service Menulog has renewed its two-year partnership with the Restaurant Association of New Zealand.


Hospitality NZ starts hunt for new CEO as White steps down
22 Mar 2023   /

Hospitality NZ starts hunt for new CEO as White steps down

She has led the association through Covid, lobbying hard for support and speaking often of hospitality’s challenges.


First Table’s capital raise goes live
22 Mar 2023   /

First Table’s capital raise goes live

Hospitality technology platform First Table is live with its $1.5m capital raise.


What are the world’s most valuable restaurant brands in 2023?
21 Mar 2023   /

What are the world’s most valuable restaurant brands in 2023?

Starbucks continues to be the world’s most valuable restaurant brands, according to the 2023 Restaurants 25 report from independent brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance.


Get your entries in for the Hospo NZ awards
21 Mar 2023   /

Get your entries in for the Hospo NZ awards

Entries are open for the 25th Hospitality New Zealand Awards for Excellence 2023, run by Hospitality New Zealand and sponsored by Lion New Zealand. 


DB deal creates new 55-strong pub group
17 Mar 2023   /

DB deal creates new 55-strong pub group

The Heineken-owned brewer is increasing its interests in the hospitality sector in a deal that will create a new 55-venue hospitality group.


Cassia moving to Auckland’s SkyCity
13 Mar 2023  

Cassia moving to Auckland’s SkyCity

Indian restaurant Cassia, by Chef Sid Sahrawat, is relocating to SkyCity after its Fort Street location in Auckland was impacted by weather events and closed in January.


Grocery spend sentiment positive out of necessity – survey
8 Mar 2023   /

Grocery spend sentiment positive out of necessity – survey

Consumers are planning to spend less across the board apart from on groceries, according to the latest sentiment survey from former BNZ chief economist Tony Alexander.


Domino’s costs start to slice NZ profits
7 Mar 2023   /

Domino’s costs start to slice NZ profits

The latest results of the NZ division of the global pizza chain franchise are a story of impinging food price inflation, but that isn’t deterring a big recruitment drive.


Full Visa WOAP festival programme unveiled
7 Mar 2023   /

Full Visa WOAP festival programme unveiled

The full festival programme for May’s Visa Wellington On a Plate festival serves up cultural celebrations and culinary crossovers.


Hospo ‘cooking up a storm’ in Cyclone Gabrielle fundraiser led by Al Brown
6 Mar 2023   /

Hospo ‘cooking up a storm’ in Cyclone Gabrielle fundraiser led by Al Brown

Hospitality businesses across the country are coming together to host New Zealand’s biggest dinner party support of those impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle.


New restaurant to open at Glenorchy’s The Headwaters Eco Lodge
3 Mar 2023  

New restaurant to open at Glenorchy’s The Headwaters Eco Lodge

A new restaurant led by renowned chef Pete Gawron opens this week at The Headwaters Eco Lodge in Glenorchy, near Queenstown.  


Hospo must improve working conditions to retain staff – study
2 Mar 2023   /

Hospo must improve working conditions to retain staff – study

Stress, insufficient pay, poor work-life balance and a lack of better opportunities contribute to staff churn rates.


Restaurant Brands sales up but profit falls as costs squeeze margins
28 Feb 2023  

Restaurant Brands sales up but profit falls as costs squeeze margins

Sales were up, but profit was down with Covid-19 costs giving way to inflation squeezing earnings.


Good Spirits trims H1 loss, asset sales ongoing
28 Feb 2023  

Good Spirits trims H1 loss, asset sales ongoing

The new financial year started ahead of expectations for the hospitality group, with improved sales helping it trim its half-year loss.


Savor closes $3.25m capital raise
28 Feb 2023  

Savor closes $3.25m capital raise

Hospitality group Savor says it has successfully completed its fully underwritten capital raise to shareholders.


Hospo sales increase 14% in Q4 2022
28 Feb 2023  

Hospo sales increase 14% in Q4 2022

Retail sales in food and beverage services reached $2.79bn in the December 2022 quarter, a 13.9% increase for the same quarter in 2021 and 2.42% above pre-Covid 2019, according to Stats NZ.


Hell Pizza returns to Australia
23 Feb 2023   /

Hell Pizza returns to Australia

Hell Pizza has officially opened a new store in Brisbane – its second foray into Australia in its almost 30-year history.


Domino’s fundraises for Cyclone Gabrielle victims
22 Feb 2023  

Domino’s fundraises for Cyclone Gabrielle victims

Over 100 Domino’s stores across New Zealand will donate $2 from every pizza sold between 3pm and 8pm today, Wednesday 22 February, to Taskforce Kiwi to support those devastated by Cyclone Gabrielle.


Subway on the block
15 Feb 2023   /

Subway on the block

The Connecticut-headquartered company has enlisted investment bank JP Morgan to explore a sales process for the company, which could fetch an estimated US$10bn.


Cyclone Gabrielle: Regional disruption for foodservice distributors
14 Feb 2023   /

Cyclone Gabrielle: Regional disruption for foodservice distributors

Foodservice distributors suffer short-term power outages and disrupted deliveries across the North Island.


International chef collabs back at Visa WOAP
14 Feb 2023   /

International chef collabs back at Visa WOAP

Visa Wellington On a Plate has announced the return of the Chef Collaboration Series presented by Singapore Airlines after a three year hiatus.


Loaded Reports raises $3.25m for expansion
8 Feb 2023  

Loaded Reports raises $3.25m for expansion

Hospitality software company Loaded Reports has raised $3.25m in equity and debt to help drive expansion overseas.


Hellers owner buying Boost Juice, Betty’s Burgers
7 Feb 2023   /

Hellers owner buying Boost Juice, Betty’s Burgers

An Australian private equity firm and owner of sausage maker Hellers is buying the company which owns Boost Juice and Betty’s Burgers.


Growth agenda at Coffee Supreme
3 Feb 2023   /

Growth agenda at Coffee Supreme

CEO Jesse Newson says that with Covid fading into the distance and PE firm Pioneer backing its growth plans, it’s now about “getting on and doing it”.


Savor updates offer info after “minor miscalculation”
2 Feb 2023  

Savor updates offer info after “minor miscalculation”

Auckland hospitality group Savor said it made a minor miscalculation when determining the share price for its upcoming $3.25m rights issue.


Savor seeks $3.25m capital to drive venue growth and possible M&A
31 Jan 2023   /

Savor seeks $3.25m capital to drive venue growth and possible M&A

“The group is now well positioned to accelerate its growth through existing and new venues, as well as exploring M&A opportunities as they arise,” says Savor.


…as hospitality counts the cost of deluge
31 Jan 2023  

…as hospitality counts the cost of deluge

The Restaurant Association says that 85% of respondents in a survey of its members have been impacted by Auckland’s deluge on Friday and ongoing weather extremes. 


Floods close Cassia temporarily, pop up opening
31 Jan 2023  

Floods close Cassia temporarily, pop up opening

Auckland’s modern Indian restaurant, Cassia, has temporarily closed with a pop-up opening at sister restaurant Sid at the French Cafe.


First Table to hit fundraising circuit
27 Jan 2023   /

First Table to hit fundraising circuit

Hospitality technology platform First Table is preparing to hit the fundraising trail early this year.


Restaurant Brands Q4 sales jump 17% with NZ leading growth
26 Jan 2023  

Restaurant Brands Q4 sales jump 17% with NZ leading growth

New Zealand delivered the best annual sales growth across the quick service restaurant heavyweight’s four geographies.


Local Chinese food TV series to broadcast in Feb
24 Jan 2023  

Local Chinese food TV series to broadcast in Feb

A new local series coming to TVNZ 1 and TVNZ+ this February will highlight modern Kiwi-Chinese life through food.


Savor books record December, forecasts earnings jump
19 Jan 2023  

Savor books record December, forecasts earnings jump

The hospitality group is on the way to its $70m revenue milestone next year, after a record December at its key restaurants, including the newly-opened Bivacco.


Hospitality salaries jump as demand for staff remains high
17 Jan 2023   /

Hospitality salaries jump as demand for staff remains high

Salaries in the hospitality and tourism sector have risen 9% year-on-year, according to new data from Trade Me Jobs.


Cooks Coffee posts record UK sales
17 Jan 2023  

Cooks Coffee posts record UK sales

Dual-listed Cooks Coffee Company has reported strong sales across its UK coffee chain for the year to 31 December 2022.


Who is heading to on-premise for the festive season?
16 Dec 2022   /

Who is heading to on-premise for the festive season?

Some 69% of New Zealand consumers are planning on visiting a hospitality venue in December, according to the latest consumer research from CGA by NielsenIQ.


Visa Wellington On a Plate wins at World Culinary Awards
14 Dec 2022  

Visa Wellington On a Plate wins at World Culinary Awards

Visa Wellington On a Plate has been awarded ‘Best Culinary Festival in Oceania’ in the World Culinary Awards 2022.  


Bayly et al takeover Queenstown’s Bathhouse Restaurant
14 Dec 2022  

Bayly et al takeover Queenstown’s Bathhouse Restaurant

Chef and restaurateur Ben Bayly and a local team have taken over Queenstown’s Bathhouse Restaurant.


Mixed reception to new immigration settings with hospo left fuming
13 Dec 2022  

Mixed reception to new immigration settings with hospo left fuming

Employer accreditations are extended and bus drivers get a boost but there’s little for hard-hit hospo.


Hospo tech firm secures $1.25m govt facility
12 Dec 2022  

Hospo tech firm secures $1.25m govt facility

The government has approved a loan of up to $1.25m to hospitality software company Loaded Reports.


Hospo needs 30k workers this summer
9 Dec 2022   /

Hospo needs 30k workers this summer

The hospitality industry needs 30,000 workers to fill summer jobs, says the Restaurant Association.


November hospo spend up, goods down  – Worldline NZ
7 Dec 2022  

November hospo spend up, goods down – Worldline NZ

In the early stages of the pre-Christmas shopping season, spending data show Kiwi consumers outlaid less money on goods but more on hospitality – wining, dining and accommodation – in November.


PM: Economic response to be scrutinised in Covid inquiry
6 Dec 2022  

PM: Economic response to be scrutinised in Covid inquiry

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Fleur Foods accelerates with BP deal
5 Dec 2022   /

Fleur Foods accelerates with BP deal

Fleur Foods has hit BP stores with a ‘poppa’ size range of offerings.


Hospitality beats pre-pandemic to hit $13bn annual sales

Hospitality beats pre-pandemic to hit $13bn annual sales

The sector has out-preformed its pre-pandemic numbers, according to the Restaurant Association.


CGA: On-premise visitation frequency rises
5 Dec 2022   /

CGA: On-premise visitation frequency rises

Visits to the on premise channel were stable in November, but the frequency of visitation was increasing according to CGA’s latest Consumer Pulse report powered by NielsenIQ.


Hospitality NZ pays tribute to industry icon Michael Friend
1 Dec 2022  

Hospitality NZ pays tribute to industry icon Michael Friend

Hospitality New Zealand has paid tribute to hospitality “icon and pioneer” Michael Friend, who has died.


Cooks Coffee interim profit up
30 Nov 2022  

Cooks Coffee interim profit up

Cooks Coffee Company has seen profit from continuing operations climb 14% to $146k in the half year to 30 September.


Interims: Burger Fuel counts cost of labour shortages
28 Nov 2022  

Interims: Burger Fuel counts cost of labour shortages

One New Zealand BurgerFuel store lost 52 lost trading days in the six month period due to staff shortages.


Savor H1 loss deepens, adds new venue
24 Nov 2022  

Savor H1 loss deepens, adds new venue

Hospitality group Savor has posted a half year loss of $2.1m in the six months to the end of September, going further into the red that the $753k of the same time last year.


GSH at post-Covid “crossroad” in hunt for deal
23 Nov 2022  

GSH at post-Covid “crossroad” in hunt for deal

Good Spirits Hospitality has launched a review of its strategic options after reaching a post-pandemic “crossroad”, according to chair Matt Adams.


Cookie Time adds Dunedin Cookie Bar, more to come
18 Nov 2022  

Cookie Time adds Dunedin Cookie Bar, more to come

Cookie Time is expanding the reach of its Cookie Bar concept, with a new store launching in Dunedin next week serving up some new additions.


Nando’s, Pita Pit criticised for chicken ‘double-standards’  
18 Nov 2022   /

Nando’s, Pita Pit criticised for chicken ‘double-standards’  

Nando’s and Pita Pit are under fire from Animals Aotearoa, which has launched a petition against the quick service restaurant brands for allegedly failing to provide New Zealand customers with the same standards of chicken meat as they do overseas.


Fair pay agreement “scarily complex”- Hospo NZ
17 Nov 2022   /

Fair pay agreement “scarily complex”- Hospo NZ

Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Julie White is calling the proposed Fair Pay Agreement “scarily complex” due to the number of jobs and businesses it must cover.


Restaurant Association flags price increases, reduced menus
14 Nov 2022  

Restaurant Association flags price increases, reduced menus

Reduced items on the menu and price increases are likely as hospitality venues look to recoup lost revenues and counter labour and food price increases, according to the Restaurant Association.


Kiwis heading for hospo more frequently – Nielsen
4 Nov 2022   /

Kiwis heading for hospo more frequently – Nielsen

One in five kiwis are heading out for a drink or bite to eat more regularly, according to the latest New Zealand On Premise Consumer Pulse report from NielsenIQ CGA.


On-premise in, takeaways out – RA survey

On-premise in, takeaways out – RA survey

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GSH appoints transaction advisor ahead of Nomura deadline
28 Oct 2022   /

GSH appoints transaction advisor ahead of Nomura deadline

Good Spirits Hospitality has appointed Tonnant Partners as its transaction advisor.


Fair Pay Agreements timing ‘could not be worse’ – RA
28 Oct 2022   /

Fair Pay Agreements timing ‘could not be worse’ – RA

The timing of the Fair Pay Agreements Bill passing into law “could not be worse for an industry already under enormous pressure”, according to the Restaurant Association.


QSR: Seven international brands heading to NZ…
26 Oct 2022  

QSR: Seven international brands heading to NZ…

The arrival of the brands, which includes TGI Fridays, follows a deal with London-based World Franchise Associates.


…while QSR heavyweight Restaurant Brands finds post-pandemic traction with solid Q3
26 Oct 2022   /

…while QSR heavyweight Restaurant Brands finds post-pandemic traction with solid Q3

New store openings, foreign exchange wins and lower levels of Covid-19 disruption have helped Restaurant Brands to solid third quarter sales of $322.2m, albeit with a mixed bag across markets.


Hospo job ads grow as demand for workers remains
26 Oct 2022   /

Hospo job ads grow as demand for workers remains

Online job advertisements for hospitality roles are growing faster than any other sector as demand for labour remains high.


Cassia owners in third Auckland opening
26 Oct 2022  

Cassia owners in third Auckland opening

The owners of Auckland restaurant Cassia, will open their third location in the city next week.


Cooks Coffee targeting 200+ outlets by 2025
13 Oct 2022  

Cooks Coffee targeting 200+ outlets by 2025

Cooks Coffee Group’s estimated number of outlets is likely to be over 200 by full year 2025 if its current growth rate keep up.


Frucor Suntory expands in QSR with multi-million dollar Mariposa win
12 Oct 2022   /

Frucor Suntory expands in QSR with multi-million dollar Mariposa win

The beverage business secures another significant nationwide contract for its brands, which includes its Pepsi flagship.


Unite launches Fair Pay Agreement 4 Hospo campaign
12 Oct 2022   /

Unite launches Fair Pay Agreement 4 Hospo campaign

Unite today launched its Fair Pay Agreement 4 Hospo campaign at its annual conference, in an effort to achieve “decent pay and conditions” for employees in the sector.


Hospo welcomes changes to allow unqualified migrant chefs, wage increases not so much
10 Oct 2022   /

Hospo welcomes changes to allow unqualified migrant chefs, wage increases not so much

Hospitality New Zealand and Hotel Council Aotearoa have welcomed changes to immigration settings that will enable unqualified chefs to work in New Zealand.


Cooks Coffee looks for $5.8m in capital ahead of dual listing
7 Oct 2022  

Cooks Coffee looks for $5.8m in capital ahead of dual listing

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Sky Stadium hospo operator in “workforce revival initiative”
7 Oct 2022   /

Sky Stadium hospo operator in “workforce revival initiative”

The hospitality business that operates Sky Stadium’s catering and hospitality services has teamed up with ServiceIQ to launch, Project Human Capital.


Immigration changes coming for skilled chefs – Hospitality NZ
7 Oct 2022   /

Immigration changes coming for skilled chefs – Hospitality NZ

Hospitality New Zealand is anticipating a move to relax immigration requirements for skilled chefs wanting to come and work in the country.


More cafes coming for Cooks Coffee Company
5 Oct 2022  

More cafes coming for Cooks Coffee Company

Cooks Coffee Company is expecting to grow the number of cafes operating under its Esquires and Triple Two brands by 10% before the end of the year.


GSH secures $27.5m debt extension, gets  ‘transaction’ deadline
4 Oct 2022  

GSH secures $27.5m debt extension, gets ‘transaction’ deadline

Good Spirits Hospitality has negotiated new terms in relations to its $27.5m debt pile from lender and shareholder Nomura, but has been given a deadline for M&A or an equity deal too.


Visa WOAP preps new dual format for 2023
4 Oct 2022  

Visa WOAP preps new dual format for 2023

Next year’s Visa Wellington On a Plate 2023 festival theme is Breaking the Mould, says organiser The Wellington Culinary Events Trust.


Kai Pasifika kicks off at Gordon’s Homeland
3 Oct 2022   /

Kai Pasifika kicks off at Gordon’s Homeland

A celebration of Blue Pacific cuisine kicks off today at Peter Gordon’s Homeland Restaurant at Westhaven, Auckland.


On premise the place to try new drinks – CGA
3 Oct 2022   /

On premise the place to try new drinks – CGA

Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand consumers are more likely to try new drinks in the on premise channel, according to the latest research from CGA by NielsenIQ.


Iconic Auckland Eats nominations close soon
30 Sep 2022   /

Iconic Auckland Eats nominations close soon

There are just two days left until nominations close for the annual Iconic Auckland Eats programme.


Invercargill warms to convenience delivery
29 Sep 2022   /

Invercargill warms to convenience delivery

According to new data from online food delivery platform Menulog, orders in Invercargill increased by 141% since June last year, with a noticeable spike in demand for convenience items.


Domino’s set for annual for Youthline fundraiser
28 Sep 2022   /

Domino’s set for annual for Youthline fundraiser

Domino’s will raise cash for Youthline with $1 from every pizza sold between 4pm-9pm on Thursday 29 September 2022 donated directly to the youth charity.


McDonald’s gears up for National Hiring Day
22 Sep 2022   /

McDonald’s gears up for National Hiring Day

McDonald’s 170 restaurants across New Zealand are preparing to collectively employ 2,000 new staff on National Hiring Day, this Saturday 24 September.


Iconic Auckland Eats nominations open
14 Sep 2022   /

Iconic Auckland Eats nominations open

Nominations are now open for Aucklanders to nominate their favourite dish for the 2022 Iconic Auckland Eats list.


“At last” – Celebration as Covid rules finally go
13 Sep 2022  

“At last” – Celebration as Covid rules finally go

Business, retail and hospitality stakeholders welcome the end of mask mandates and the scrapping of the traffic light system.


Hospo welcomes public holiday for Queen despite cost to business
13 Sep 2022  

Hospo welcomes public holiday for Queen despite cost to business

A one-off public holiday to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II has been welcomed by Hospitality New Zealand, even though it may come with a cost for operators. 


August hospo spend jumps 78% due to 2021 Delta lockdown
12 Sep 2022   /

August hospo spend jumps 78% due to 2021 Delta lockdown

Spend in the hospitality industry reached $1.15bn in August 2022, up 78.2% from $646m during the same month last year, according to Stats NZ.


How far did Ōtautahi Christchurch turn up the heat in August?
8 Sep 2022   /

How far did Ōtautahi Christchurch turn up the heat in August?

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s post-Covid Turn up the Heat festival in August saw more than 50 central city hospitality joints join a fiery food competition, each offering a different spicy dish or drink.


Restaurant Brands CEO, CFO both to go
7 Sep 2022   /

Restaurant Brands CEO, CFO both to go

The QSR group is losing its chief executive of 15 years, Russel Creedy, as well as its even longer-serving chief financial officer.


ITP a ‘duplication’ of work already done – Restaurant Association
5 Sep 2022   /

ITP a ‘duplication’ of work already done – Restaurant Association

The Restaurant Association is calling the government’s Better Work Action Plan a ‘duplication’ of work it completed in its own roadmap more than a year ago.


Nando’s now in the gun for misleading delivery fees
2 Sep 2022   /

Nando’s now in the gun for misleading delivery fees

Nando’s is the latest quick service restaurant chain to be put in the firing line by Consumer NZ which is campaigning against misleading delivery fees.


Burger Fuel sombre about future, no buyer on the horizon
31 Aug 2022  

Burger Fuel sombre about future, no buyer on the horizon

“These remain uncertain times and we will have to see how things develop over the next 6-12 months,” says CEO Josef Roberts.


Good Spirits launches strategic review after another loss…
30 Aug 2022   /

Good Spirits launches strategic review after another loss…

The group reports another loss and appoints an investment bank to review the business.


…while competitor Savor targets $100m leveraging Amano into wholesale, OJI into retail
30 Aug 2022  

…while competitor Savor targets $100m leveraging Amano into wholesale, OJI into retail

The Auckland restaurant group has unveiled ambitious growth plans, which will see it hit a $70m milestone in 2024, then $100m by building out its Amano and OJI brands.


Restaurant Brands sales up – but so are costs
29 Aug 2022  

Restaurant Brands sales up – but so are costs

Operations in all of the company’s markets – NZ, Australia, Hawaii and California – have been stifled by staff availability and supply chain issues.


Highball Cocktail Festival cancelled for 2022
29 Aug 2022   /

Highball Cocktail Festival cancelled for 2022

The Wellington Culinary Events Trust has cancelled this year’s Highball festival, which was scheduled to take place on 23 & 24 September 2022.


Accom, hospo sales up more than $70m each – Stats NZ
29 Aug 2022   /

Accom, hospo sales up more than $70m each – Stats NZ

The easing of border restrictions has contributed to sales volume growth in the accommodation sector of almost $71.3m, an 11% rise between the March and June 2022 quarters, according to Stats NZ.


Lion’s marketplace app gains traction
24 Aug 2022  

Lion’s marketplace app gains traction

Lion said it is now seeing more than 1,000 monthly orders through the new customer portal and app it launched last year.


…while hospo welcomes working holiday visa expansion
22 Aug 2022   /

…while hospo welcomes working holiday visa expansion

Hospitality New Zealand has welcomed a boost to New Zealand’s Working Holiday Visa programme ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer challenged by worker shortages.


Hospitality Championships 2022 Open for registration
18 Aug 2022   /

Hospitality Championships 2022 Open for registration

Registrations have opened for this year’s Hospitality Championships, supported by NZ Chefs Association as part of the Hospitality Summit 22.


Cooks Coffee to dual list on UK’s Aquis
16 Aug 2022  

Cooks Coffee to dual list on UK’s Aquis

Cooks Coffee Company plans to dual list on the UK’s Aquis Stock Exchange Growth Market.


Ben Bayly adds Origine in Auckland
16 Aug 2022  

Ben Bayly adds Origine in Auckland

Chef Ben Bayly is adding Origine to his list of ventures, which include Ahi, Ahi Organic Gardens, and The Grounds at Whoa! Studios in Auckland, as well as Aosta, Little Aosta, and Blue Door Bar in Arrowtown.


Domino’s launches Burger Joint pizza range
15 Aug 2022  

Domino’s launches Burger Joint pizza range

Quick service restaurant chain Domino’s has launched a new Burger Joint pizza range.


Retail NZ welcomes return of cruise ships
12 Aug 2022   /

Retail NZ welcomes return of cruise ships

Retail NZ has welcomed the return of international cruise ships to New Zealand for the first time since Covid-19.


July hospo spend jumps to $1.9bn – Stats NZ
10 Aug 2022   /

July hospo spend jumps to $1.9bn – Stats NZ

Electronic card spending in the hospitality industry reached $1.9bn during July 2022, up from almost $1.1bn in the preceding month of June, according to Stats NZ data.


Training programme to plug hospo, tourism gaps
10 Aug 2022   /

Training programme to plug hospo, tourism gaps

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Delivery companies ranked on chicken commitments
8 Aug 2022   /

Delivery companies ranked on chicken commitments

SwoleFoods and Domino’s have topped a table which ranks how food delivery service businesses in New Zealand stack up against the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC).


A Taste of AUT lined up for August
8 Aug 2022   /

A Taste of AUT lined up for August

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GSH completes Viaduct Velvet deal
5 Aug 2022  

GSH completes Viaduct Velvet deal

Good Spirits Hospitality Limited has completed the acquisition of the Velvet Bar following receipt of the required regulatory approvals and consent from GSH’s financier.


Matariki challenge serves up BOP feast
5 Aug 2022  

Matariki challenge serves up BOP feast

The 2022 Matariki Dish Challenge in Rotorua and Bay of Plenty has showcased the best of the region’s storytelling and food, with four winners crowned.


Hospo stalwart Norrie reflects on Hall of Fame induction
4 Aug 2022   /

Hospo stalwart Norrie reflects on Hall of Fame induction

Wellington’s Peter Norrie has welcomed his induction into the Hospitality New Zealand Hall of Fame by reflecting on the opportunities in the industry over more than 40 years.


Twiice as nice: The edible tableware maker’s post-pandemic plan
3 Aug 2022   /

Twiice as nice: The edible tableware maker’s post-pandemic plan

A new piece of patent-pending kit will unlock domestic capacity, while an international opportunity is also being assessed.


Kiwi Kai Nelson founder wins MWDI award
3 Aug 2022  

Kiwi Kai Nelson founder wins MWDI award

Reni Wereta-Gargiulo from Kiwi Kai Nelson has won the Supreme Award at this year’s Māori Women’s Development Inc Māori Businesswoman Awards 2022 held in Tāmaki Mākaurau on Friday, 29 July 2022.


For sale: Hospo biz sales prices 40% up on 2021
2 Aug 2022   /

For sale: Hospo biz sales prices 40% up on 2021

The dramatic increase in sales prices represented a genuine bounce back in confidence for hospitality, says ABC Business Sales.


New NZ GM for Domino’s
1 Aug 2022   /

New NZ GM for Domino’s

The pizza chain ships in a new New Zealand general manager from Australia to replace Cameron Toomey, who has been promoted.


Queenstown’s Future Hospitality celebrates awards
29 Jul 2022   /

Queenstown’s Future Hospitality celebrates awards

Queenstown’s Future Hospitality Group is in celebration mode after winning best bar for Little Blackwood and the excellence in people and culture award for the group at the 2022 Hospitality NZ Awards.


Cooks Coffee confirms dual listing, WFH boost
28 Jul 2022   /

Cooks Coffee confirms dual listing, WFH boost

NZX-listed global coffee franchise business Cook Coffee has confirmed it plans to go ahead with a dual listing in the United Kingdom – its largest market.


Hospitality NZ behind new Emerging Leaders Programme…
28 Jul 2022   /

Hospitality NZ behind new Emerging Leaders Programme…

Hospitality New Zealand is working with international hospitality expert Shane Green to develop a programme which engages workers early, provides access to career pathways and develops leaders of the future.


…while Restaurant Association creates industry accreditation programme
28 Jul 2022   /

…while Restaurant Association creates industry accreditation programme

The Restaurant Association has launched a new accreditation programme for businesses that seek to promote an efficient, productive and harmonious workplace culture.


Hospitality “battle hardened” for coming challenges – Bagrie

Hospitality “battle hardened” for coming challenges – Bagrie

The economy faces strong headwinds but hospitality is better prepared than many other industries to face the challenges, says Cameron Bagrie.


Costs, Covid to hit Restaurant Brands’ H1 profit
27 Jul 2022  

Costs, Covid to hit Restaurant Brands’ H1 profit

The quick service restaurant group’s sales are holding up but cost inflation and staff absenteeism put H1 profit forecasts at half of last year.


Hospitality NZ launches alcohol service course
27 Jul 2022   /

Hospitality NZ launches alcohol service course

Hospitality New Zealand is launching a course to ensure all staff working where alcohol is served are trained in responsible service to support harm minimisation.


BOP cafe takes Great New Zealand Toastie title
27 Jul 2022  

BOP cafe takes Great New Zealand Toastie title

The South Island’s three-year Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover winning streak has ended with a Bay of Plenty Cafe taking top place in the the competition in 2022.


Industry converges on sold-out hospitality conference
25 Jul 2022   /

Industry converges on sold-out hospitality conference

After a two year hiatus, the New Zealand Hospitality Conference is back taking place at the Grand Millennium in Auckland starting tomorrow.


Ōtautahi Christchurch turns up the heat
25 Jul 2022   /

Ōtautahi Christchurch turns up the heat

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s Central City is bringing the heat this August with a festival of 60-plus events ranging from roaming characters, comedy, cabaret, drag, variety shows and a fiery food competition.


Nourish finds a buyer in Foley Group
22 Jul 2022   /

Nourish finds a buyer in Foley Group

“When the Good Spirits Hospitality deal did not proceed, it was felt that there was a significant amount of synergy with other Foley investments in New Zealand,” says Foley CEO Mark Turnbull.


Hell jumps on pizza peers’ murky pricing
21 Jul 2022   /

Hell jumps on pizza peers’ murky pricing

The pizza franchise’s new campaign promotes transparent pricing, following a number of its peers being in the firing line for misleading fees.


Visa WOAP launching with kaimoana pop-up
20 Jul 2022   /

Visa WOAP launching with kaimoana pop-up

To kick off Visa Wellington On a Plate 2022, a mechanics workshop will be transformed into The Sea Breeze Inn, a pop-up restaurant serving sustainably-sourced kaimoana from across Aotearoa New Zealand. 


Hospo firms secure Parliament occupation payments
19 Jul 2022  

Hospo firms secure Parliament occupation payments

A raft of hospitality outlets were among the fifty businesses that have shared a total of $974,600 from the $1.2m relief fund established by Wellington City Council and the government following the protest occupation in and around parliament earlier this year.


Consumer NZ calls out “hidden” QSR delivery fees
15 Jul 2022   /

Consumer NZ calls out “hidden” QSR delivery fees

Consumer NZ is calling on businesses to be upfront about pricing after an investigation found that restaurants are charging customers more for items that get delivered.


Cassia “thinks outside the box” with operations overhaul in tight labour market
14 Jul 2022   /

Cassia “thinks outside the box” with operations overhaul in tight labour market

The changes will allow its kitchen teams to work a four-day week for the same salary.


Hospo Hui 2022 takes shape

Hospo Hui 2022 takes shape

The Restaurant Association has secured Canadian chef and entrepreneur Eric Pateman as one of the keynote speaker to discuss the possibilities the industry’s recovery at its upcoming Hospo Hui.


US pizza buffet franchise enters NZ
13 Jul 2022   /

US pizza buffet franchise enters NZ

The Dallas-headquartered pizza buffet concept is set to open its first outlet in Auckland later this year, and is looking for nine more sites.


Hospo spend falls in Q2 – Stats NZ
12 Jul 2022   /

Hospo spend falls in Q2 – Stats NZ

Electronic card spending in the hospitality industry fell to $3.3bn in the June 2022 quarter, down around $120m from the $3.4bn recorded for the same period last year.


CGA: Cost of living concerns curb on-premise visitation
11 Jul 2022   /

CGA: Cost of living concerns curb on-premise visitation

On-premise visitation is stabilising as Covid-19 restrictions dissipate but cost-of-living concerns are on the rise, according to a survey from CGA.


Beverage should seize “health dollar” opportunity – research
7 Jul 2022   /

Beverage should seize “health dollar” opportunity – research

Consumers will pay more for a healthier drink option, especially in restaurants, according to a new study.


Restaurant Month returns to Auckland
6 Jul 2022   /

Restaurant Month returns to Auckland

Auckland’s city centre will play host to food, nostalgia, and fine dining to celebrate Restaurant Month from 1 – 31 August.


Hospo wages surpass living wage – Hospitality NZ
1 Jul 2022   /

Hospo wages surpass living wage – Hospitality NZ

The average hourly wage in hospitality has increased by $2 to $24.43 this year, higher than the $23.65 living wage.


Fix & Fogg to close Eva Street window
30 Jun 2022   /

Fix & Fogg to close Eva Street window

Nut butter company Fix & Fogg is closing its Wellington shopfront, known as the Eva Street window.


GSH chair steps down, Adams steps up
29 Jun 2022   /

GSH chair steps down, Adams steps up

Good Spirits Hospitality’s Duncan Makeig has stepped down from the company’s board with director Matt Adams replacing him as chair.


McDonald’s puts Covid in rear-view mirror with results rebound
20 Jun 2022   /

McDonald’s puts Covid in rear-view mirror with results rebound

Climbing rental income bolsters the QSR franchises’ performance to surpass pre-pandemic levels.


Pandemic pushes innovation in hospitality sector

Pandemic pushes innovation in hospitality sector

A move to digital ordering was the most popular innovation, according to a Restaurant Association survey, with Covid and convenience driving the shift.


Who made the cut for the 2022 Lion Hospitality Awards?
17 Jun 2022   /

Who made the cut for the 2022 Lion Hospitality Awards?

The finalists have been revealed in the Lion Hospitality Awards for Excellence 2022, organised by Hospitality New Zealand.


Hospo, tourism job ads rise 14% – SEEK
15 Jun 2022   /

Hospo, tourism job ads rise 14% – SEEK

Job advertisements for hospitality and tourism roles have jumped 14% in May 2022, compared to April, according to SEEK New Zealand.


Hospo recovery setting in – Restaurant Association

Hospo recovery setting in – Restaurant Association

Hospitality revenues are starting to recover, with the gap narrowing in May compared with April, according to the latest monthly statistics from the Restaurant Association.


“Aotearoa on a plate” – Air NZ’s new menu focuses on local
8 Jun 2022   /

“Aotearoa on a plate” – Air NZ’s new menu focuses on local

The airline has released details of its new menu, which includes local ingredients like Southland Lamb Prosciutto, Hawke’s Bay extra virgin olive oil and mānuka smoked free-range chicken from the Waikato.


Hospitality conference adds top talent to lineup
8 Jun 2022   /

Hospitality conference adds top talent to lineup

The New Zealand Hospitality Conference has added two more star hospitality figureheads to its lineup this year.


Visa Wellington On a Plate launches 2022 programme
1 Jun 2022   /

Visa Wellington On a Plate launches 2022 programme

The capital’s annual annual month long food festival, Visa Wellington on a Plate, will include 120 events and pop-ups being held under the 2022 theme A State of Flux.


Savor adds $2m capital, new venues
31 May 2022   /

Savor adds $2m capital, new venues

Hospitality group Savor has posted an improved EBITDA of $3m for the year to 31 March, compared with $2m in the prior year.


Uncertainty means no clarity yet on profit – Restaurant Brands
30 May 2022   /

Uncertainty means no clarity yet on profit – Restaurant Brands

Restaurant Brands chief executive Russel Creedy says the company cannot yet commit to a profit outcome for the current financial year because of the uncertain environment.


Inflationary pressure looms over SMEs – Xero
30 May 2022  

Inflationary pressure looms over SMEs – Xero

Signs of inflationary pressure are beginning to show with Xero’s New Zealand Small Business Index falling six points to 127 points in April.


Record entries for Hospitality Awards for Excellence
27 May 2022  

Record entries for Hospitality Awards for Excellence

A record 294 entries from more than 150 venues have been received for the 2022 Hospitality Awards for Excellence, hosted by Hospitality New Zealand.


May means Eat, Drink, Love Ponsonby 2022.
19 May 2022   /

May means Eat, Drink, Love Ponsonby 2022.

For the month of May, participating Auckland restaurants and bars will be celebrating the Eat, Drink, Love Ponsonby 2022.


“You’re going to see a more focused business” Lion NZ’s Craig Baldie
18 May 2022  

“You’re going to see a more focused business” Lion NZ’s Craig Baldie

Lion is close to completing a reshaping of its NZ operations, allowing it to emerge from Covid concentrated on core.


New chair for Good Spirits Hospitality after Makeig resigns
18 May 2022   /

New chair for Good Spirits Hospitality after Makeig resigns

Good Spirits Hospitality has named director Matt Adams as chair designate after Duncan Makeig signalled his intention to resign the chair following the upcoming June board meeting.


Southland firm fined for poor seafood records
13 May 2022   /

Southland firm fined for poor seafood records

A Southland company has been fined $10,400 after failing to keep a fish sales record system for seafood it was moving between its Te Anau restaurants.


How has on-premise performed since Covid restrictions were lifted?
12 May 2022   /

How has on-premise performed since Covid restrictions were lifted?

Covid-19 concerns continue to dissipate, but venues and suppliers must now reckon with a reduction in disposable income.


Hospo welcomes temporary migrant worker changes
12 May 2022   /

Hospo welcomes temporary migrant worker changes

The hospitality industry says changes to migrant worker settings will be a welcome relief for businesses struggling to fill vacancies as the country’s border restrictions ease.


Card spending up in April, but down for hospo
11 May 2022   /

Card spending up in April, but down for hospo

Stats NZ said that in actual terms, monthly card spending on hospitality continued to decrease, down $56m or 4.9% compared with April 2021.


NZ Hospitality Conference is back
9 May 2022   /

NZ Hospitality Conference is back

The New Zealand Hospitality Conference is back in-person in July after a two-year hiatus and with a theme of “The Future of Hospitality”.


Foodprint goes live in the Waikato
6 May 2022   /

Foodprint goes live in the Waikato

Food rescue app Foodprint has gone live in the Waikato region officially launching in Hamilton, Cambridge, Te Awamutu and Raglan.


Lion’s Havana Coffee Works Roastery open in Auckland
3 May 2022   /

Lion’s Havana Coffee Works Roastery open in Auckland

Havana Coffee Works Roastery opened yesterday in Parnell, Auckland – its second location alongside Wellington.


Restaurant Brands Q1 sales squeak up
29 Apr 2022   /

Restaurant Brands Q1 sales squeak up

NZ sales were flat as Omicron disrupted store opening hours and the sales mix, particularly in Auckland.


Lion NZ expands hospo wellbeing programme
29 Apr 2022   /

Lion NZ expands hospo wellbeing programme

Lion New Zealand is expanding its Healthy Hospo health and wellbeing program to offer in-person events around New Zealand in 2022.


Good Spirits abandons $27m Nourish Group buy
28 Apr 2022   /

Good Spirits abandons $27m Nourish Group buy

The deal to acquire the 10-strong national portfolio falls over after failing to attract an equity backer.


Entries open for 2022 Hospitality Awards for Excellence
26 Apr 2022   /

Entries open for 2022 Hospitality Awards for Excellence

Entries are now open for Hospitality New Zealand’s 24th annual Hospitality Awards for Excellence, which will be held in person at a gala dinner on 27 July at the Grand Millennium Auckland.


Hospo spend tops $202m over Easter
21 Apr 2022   /

Hospo spend tops $202m over Easter

Consumer spending in hospitality over the week leading up to Easter Monday reached $202.8m, bucking a 23% downward trend over the last eight months following the Covid Delta outbreak, according to payment data from Worldline.


Two Thumb Brewing Co takes over Lion’s Fermentist
20 Apr 2022   /

Two Thumb Brewing Co takes over Lion’s Fermentist

Two Thumb Brewing Co is taking over the Christchurch site of the former Fermentist Brewery and Taproom, owned and operated by Lion.


Hell expands reading challenge campaign
20 Apr 2022   /

Hell expands reading challenge campaign

Pizza chain Hell has expanded its reading challenge – now in its eighth year – with the addition of The Great NZ Book trip.


Hell Pizza makes second run at Australia
19 Apr 2022   /

Hell Pizza makes second run at Australia

Queensland is initial focus for pizza franchise before a nationwide expansion is considered.


“Huge relief” for hospo with move to orange
14 Apr 2022   /

“Huge relief” for hospo with move to orange

The hospitality industry has welcomed the ditching of capacity limits in time for the important Easter, Anzac Day and school holidays.


Toastie Takeover judging under way
14 Apr 2022   /

Toastie Takeover judging under way

The Great New Zealand Toastie Takeover is back for a fifth year.


Hospo capacity limits to go after NZ moves to orange at midnight – Hipkins
13 Apr 2022  

Hospo capacity limits to go after NZ moves to orange at midnight – Hipkins

Bars, cafes, and restaurants will be able to fill up again with capacity and seating rules lifted, says Chris Hipkins.


Lone Star launches first hotel restaurant
12 Apr 2022   /

Lone Star launches first hotel restaurant

Lone Star has opened its first hotel restaurant within the Mercure Auckland Queen Street.


Cooks Coffee Company to rationalise shareholders
7 Apr 2022  

Cooks Coffee Company to rationalise shareholders

Auckland-headquartered international coffee chain franchise Cooks Coffee Company intends to exercise the power of sale of shares, following a significant repositioning which included a name change, $5.5m capital raise and share consolidation.


Subway taps former Kerry exec to lead NZ-Australia
5 Apr 2022   /

Subway taps former Kerry exec to lead NZ-Australia

Shane Bracken steps up to the top job following a turbulent period for the sandwich franchise, especially in Australia.


Hospo sees red over continued Covid restrictions
5 Apr 2022   /

Hospo sees red over continued Covid restrictions

Hospitality businesses will continue to struggle following the government’s decision to keep the country in the red setting of the Covid-19 Protection Framework, say industry groups.


Good Spirits delays $27m Nourish acquisition
31 Mar 2022   /

Good Spirits delays $27m Nourish acquisition

The completion of Auckland pub group Good Spirits Hospitality’s conditional takeover of restaurant owner Nourish Group has been delayed until Q2.


Burger Fuel warns of Omicron impacts
28 Mar 2022   /

Burger Fuel warns of Omicron impacts

Burger Fuel Group says it is experiencing some short-term, temporary store closures as a result of the Omicron outbreak.


Good Spirits Hospitality gets another interest waiver
28 Mar 2022   /

Good Spirits Hospitality gets another interest waiver

Good Spirits Hospitality has agreed a waiver with its lender Pacific Dawn in respect of the interest due and payable for the quarter ended 31 March 2022.


Hell launches Impossible Burger Pizza 2.0
28 Mar 2022   /

Hell launches Impossible Burger Pizza 2.0

Pizza chain Hell has launched an Impossible Burger Pizza 2.0 using plant-based food company Impossible Food’s beef product.


Council gives discount to hospitality businesses
25 Mar 2022   /

Council gives discount to hospitality businesses

Hamilton council has approved a 50% reduction in fees for food safety verifications that take place before the end of June this year.


Covid settings changes ‘waste of time, nonsensical’ – Hospitality NZ
24 Mar 2022   /

Covid settings changes ‘waste of time, nonsensical’ – Hospitality NZ

The changes do not go far enough to help struggling businesses, says industry groups.


Entries open for 2022 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award
18 Mar 2022  

Entries open for 2022 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award

Entries are now open for the 2022 Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award targeted at chefs aged 16-25.


Border reopening will save businesses – Hospitality NZ
17 Mar 2022  

Border reopening will save businesses – Hospitality NZ

The earlier border opening will save many businesses from collapse, says Hospitality New Zealand.


Pita Pit brands going from virtual to reality
16 Mar 2022   /

Pita Pit brands going from virtual to reality

The QSR franchise has used the pandemic to validate new food concepts, and is now working up a plan for a bricks and mortar rollout.


Dunedin cafe wins $10k in hospitality relief campaign
16 Mar 2022   /

Dunedin cafe wins $10k in hospitality relief campaign

Dunedin’s Alto Cafe has won $10,000 cash, as well as $5000 towards a new website, as part of a hospitality relief campaign.


Hospo, accom prices on the rise despite fuel, transport cuts
15 Mar 2022   /

Hospo, accom prices on the rise despite fuel, transport cuts

Hospitality and accommodation operators may still have to put up prices despite the fuel and transport cost cuts announced by the government, says Hospitality New Zealand.


Spending dips for hospitality, groceries
11 Mar 2022   /

Spending dips for hospitality, groceries

Hospitality venues continue to feel the pressure of Omicron with a 10% drop in card spending last month.


Unclear guidelines leading to hospo business fines
8 Mar 2022   /

Unclear guidelines leading to hospo business fines

Government guidelines on wage subsidies need to be clearer to protect small business owners including hospitality operators who are being fined for misinterpreting the rules.


Feb hospo spend in the doldrums
4 Mar 2022   /

Feb hospo spend in the doldrums

Consumer spending at hospitality businesses remains down nearly a quarter on pre-Covid levels, according to data from payment services provider Worldline.


Small businesses suffering under phase 3 – Buy NZ Made
4 Mar 2022   /

Small businesses suffering under phase 3 – Buy NZ Made

Small businesses are continuing to suffer under the pressure of Omicron and phase three restrictions.


Will Domino’s really be delivering pizza by drone?
3 Mar 2022   /

Will Domino’s really be delivering pizza by drone?

NZ GM Cameron Toomey says finding people to deliver goods will get harder as the volume of delivery products increases.


Percasky backs ghost kitchen startup building NZ portfolio
2 Mar 2022   /

Percasky backs ghost kitchen startup building NZ portfolio

The new venture is being backed by the Christchurch investor with at least $12m ploughed into it to date.


Hospitality welcomes end of self-iso
1 Mar 2022   /

Hospitality welcomes end of self-iso

Business and hospitality groups are pleased the government is ditching self-isolation requirements for returning New Zealanders.


Restaurant Brands delivers growth despite Covid challenges
28 Feb 2022   /

Restaurant Brands delivers growth despite Covid challenges

Rising costs saw some margin erosion, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.


Interims: MWE overseas sales surge, Good Spirits suffers lockdown hit
28 Feb 2022   /

Interims: MWE overseas sales surge, Good Spirits suffers lockdown hit

The listed companies brush off Covid-19 chills as they look to grow via distribution deals and acquisitions.


Hospo welcomes phase 3, support package changes
25 Feb 2022   /

Hospo welcomes phase 3, support package changes

t to phase 3 of the Omicron response and an adjustment to conditions in the government’s financial support package announced on Monday.


“Major problem” with new govt support – Hospitality NZ
23 Feb 2022   /

“Major problem” with new govt support – Hospitality NZ

Hospitality New Zealand is warning many of the hardest-hit businesses in the sector may be ineligible for the government’s new support package.


Relief at new Covid support, but fears not enough to prevent closures
22 Feb 2022   /

Relief at new Covid support, but fears not enough to prevent closures

It will help but many in hospitality may still have to shut, say industry groups.


Govt stumps up support for Omicron-impacted businesses
22 Feb 2022   /

Govt stumps up support for Omicron-impacted businesses

Three payments capped at $24k each will be available for hard-hit businesses.


Hospo jobs dip in record January – SEEK NZ
21 Feb 2022   /

Hospo jobs dip in record January – SEEK NZ

Job ads posted on website Seek reached a record in January, however hospitality and tourism ads were down 4% from December.


Lion’s message to govt: Act now to avert “major catastrophe”
18 Feb 2022   /

Lion’s message to govt: Act now to avert “major catastrophe”

The beverage giant urges Finance Minister Grant Robertson to “act swiftly, decisively and meaningfully”.


Lone Star calls for govt lifeline
18 Feb 2022   /

Lone Star calls for govt lifeline

The prominent hospitality brand has called on the government to throw a lifeline to the sector.


Watch: Hospitality under Omicron
17 Feb 2022  

Watch: Hospitality under Omicron

A sobering film showing the impact the red traffic light setting is having on hospitality operators across the country, courtesy of Hospitality New Zealand.


Frucor Suntory wins ‘multi-year, multi-million dollar’ Pita Pit contract
16 Feb 2022   /

Frucor Suntory wins ‘multi-year, multi-million dollar’ Pita Pit contract

The beverage maker expands into Pita Pit’s 87 outlets in a push into NZ foodservice.


58% of hospo owners preparing for insolvency – survey
15 Feb 2022   /

58% of hospo owners preparing for insolvency – survey

Half the industry has seen revenue plummet by more than 40% since NZ shifted to red, says Hospitality NZ.


FSANZ calls for food code feedback
15 Feb 2022  

FSANZ calls for food code feedback

Food Standards Australia New Zealand wants feedback on new safety and management standards for food service and retail businesses.


Queenstown hospo shutdown heralds Omicron “inferno”
14 Feb 2022   /

Queenstown hospo shutdown heralds Omicron “inferno”

Hospitality operators are battling to stay open – and afloat – after Covid cases force widespread closures at the resort.


Hospo revenues plummet 60% on pre-Covid levels – RA
11 Feb 2022   /

Hospo revenues plummet 60% on pre-Covid levels – RA

Restaurants are reporting a near 60% overall decline in revenues since the Covid-19 pandemic began.


CGF reports strong 2021 recovery for coffee chains
10 Feb 2022   /

CGF reports strong 2021 recovery for coffee chains

Cooks Global Foods says sales at its UK-based cafe franchises recovered from Covid-19 ahead of the wider UK coffee market in 2021.


Amisfield shines in national food awards
9 Feb 2022   /

Amisfield shines in national food awards

Central Otago’s Amisfield has scooped a couple of key prizes at the prestigious Cuisine Good Food Awards.


Domino’s to raise $20k+ for charity on World Pizza Day
9 Feb 2022   /

Domino’s to raise $20k+ for charity on World Pizza Day

World Pizza Day has a charitable feel for fast-food chain Domino’s.


$70m arts, culture package should be extended –  Hospitality NZ
3 Feb 2022  

$70m arts, culture package should be extended – Hospitality NZ

Hospitality New Zealand says the sector also deserves financial assistance to cushion the blow from the Covid-19 pandemic.


Red setting drives hopso down 25% – Hospitality NZ
2 Feb 2022  

Red setting drives hopso down 25% – Hospitality NZ

Hospitality New Zealand says New Zealand’s move into the red traffic light setting has scared people into a “voluntary lockdown”.


40% of members faced “rude, aggressive” customers – RA
6 Dec 2021   /

40% of members faced “rude, aggressive” customers – RA

The Restaurant Association says 40% of its members reported having to deal with rude or aggressive customers due to the transition on Friday to the traffic light Covid-19 Protection Framework.


Hospitality contributes 137k direct jobs, $6.8b in GDP – report
2 Dec 2021  

Hospitality contributes 137k direct jobs, $6.8b in GDP – report

More than 232,000 jobs are dependent on New Zealand’s hospitality sector, 137,000 of them directly, according to a new report.


Karma Drinks donates $12k to hospo after Black Friday initiative
2 Dec 2021   /

Karma Drinks donates $12k to hospo after Black Friday initiative

Karma Drinks will donate $12,070 to the #HandsUp4Hospo initiative after its recent ‘Hospo Friday’ initiative – a take on the popular Black Friday.


Hospo “crushed” after being left off govt’s $38m Auckland stimulus
1 Dec 2021  

Hospo “crushed” after being left off govt’s $38m Auckland stimulus

Exclusion from the government’s $37.5m summer reactivation scheme fro Auckland “another kick in the guts” for struggling hospo morale.