Thursday, 10 August 2023

Swiss Butter's Secret Sauce - The Case Against Franchising

CEO and Founder Eddy Massaad
Swiss Butter's philosophy brings a fresh perspective to an industry where the pursuit of profits often overshadows the customer experience.

Because Swiss Butter Embraces Authenticity and Long-Term Brand Value, Rejects Franchising Model

In the fiercely competitive restaurant industry, franchising has traditionally been considered a surefire strategy for rapid expansion and enhanced visibility of brands. But Swiss Butter, a rising star in the culinary world, is defying conventional norms and is striding ahead, forging its own distinctive and unique pathway.

Rather than choosing the franchising option, Swiss Butter is clearly dedicated to establishing a genuine connection with its customers while upholding its core values.

Under the leadership of CEO and Founder Eddy Massaad, Swiss Butter is committed to delivering the true Swiss Butter experience to every single patron. Massaad states: "Our brand ethos is deeply rooted in providing the Swiss Butter experience, which is an experience that places customer happiness above all else."

This unconventional approach sets Swiss Butter apart from all its competitors and drives its decision to forgo the allure of rapid expansion through franchising.

Franchising, while seemingly enticing for swift growth, can inadvertently dilute a brand's vital essence. 

Massaad explains his thinking on this: "Franchising, while appealing for rapid expansion, comes with its fair share of pitfalls and problems. One significant issue is the potential dilution of brand quality and standards due to decreased overall control.”

He added: “Discrepancies across outlets can begin to surface, tarnishing the brand that the owners worked so hard to create. Another challenge is franchisees often tend to prioritise short-term profits over the brand owner's long-term vision, which could lead to cost-cutting measures which would tend further compromise the customer experience.”

“Moreover, disputes at the franchisee level can significantly damage the brand’s reputation, eroding customer trust and happiness. Whilst franchising might seem an attractive proposition on the surface, it doesn't always serve the best interests of the brand, aka the customers."

Swiss Butter's decision to forgo franchising reflects a broader shift in focus from immediate profits to the cultivation of long-term brand value. Massaad emphasises, "Whilst the prospect of quick profits and rapid expansion is obviously very tempting, we chose to prioritise the long-term value and authenticity of our brand, as we consider ourselves the guardians of our brand. We don't merely operate; we nurture, protect, and preserve the Swiss Butter experience."

However, Swiss Butter's stance doesn't indicate resistance to growth. Rather, their expansion strategy revolves around controlled, sustainable growth.

Massaad reveals, "Instead of franchising, we occasionally partner at the local level. We handpick partners who align with our brand values and who fully understand our Swiss Butter ethos.”

In an industry where many brands prioritise profits over the customer experience, Swiss Butter stands out with its unwavering commitment to its brand and customers. "As we continue to grow, we promise to remain true to our roots and the beloved Swiss Butter experience our customers know and also cherish."

Swiss Butter's philosophy brings a fresh perspective to an industry where the pursuit of profits often overshadows customer experience.

As Massaad aptly states, "We aren't  sprinters; we are marathon runners. We are dedicated to preserving the Swiss Butter experience for the long haul." By eschewing franchising in favour of authenticity and long-term brand value, Swiss Butter is forging its own pathway to success in the restaurant industry.

https://swissbutter.com/

What is Swiss Butter? "Your friendly neighbourhood steakhouse."

Food shopping made simpler and easier as Asda displays daily fuel prices online

Food shoppers looking to fill their car boots with groceries at the same time as they fill their car with fuel, will appreciate the latest idea from Asda, as Asda's become the first supermarket in the UK to publish local fuel prices online, thus empowering and enabling motorists to check the price of petrol or diesel before they even get in their car.

Asda's confirmed fuel prices at each Asda filling station will be available alongside other key information on the Asda Store Locator pages https://storelocator.asda.com.

The latest fuel prices will be available on the store locator page from 10.30am every morning and will show the previous day’s closing price, too.

Asda is continuing to develop a system to display real-time pricing and it expects that this will be working in the coming months.

Asda is also continuing to work collaboratively with the Government as they develop an industry-wide fuel finder scheme.

A spokesman for Asda said: “We at Asda are very proud to be the price leader in fuel costs and by sharing our prices online, customers will be able to find the best value at the pumps before they get in the car.”

www.asda.com

Celebrate National Prosecco Day with a Witt pizza

Why not raise a glass to National Prosecco Day this Sunday 13th August with the perfect pairing, delicious authentic Italian homemade pizza and bubbly Prosecco?

Pop open a bottle of fizz, gather your friends and family members, and host a Prosecco filled pizza party with the help of Witt pizza curators of the impressive pizza oven range which is taking the UK by storm this throughout this summer.  

Says Geoff Johnson Witt Sales Director, and Pizza Guru at Witt UK & Ireland: “The crisp, aromatic flavours of Prosecco makes it a suburb partner with even the more traditional types of pizzas. 

The sparkling fruit nuances and light balance of Prosecco really create a wonderful contrast to the denser tones of cheese and sliced meats, and its clean, refreshing punch partners especially well with seafood toppings such as prawns and shellfish.”

https://www.wittpizza.com/


(Image courtesy of Nicole_80 from Pixabay)

Great news from Aldi. Over 30 products have reduced prices

Even though Aldi is already the UK’s cheapest supermarket, it's cut the price of over 30 household grocery staples.

From now on, Aldi shoppers will pay even less for fresh produce items including apples, oranges and peaches.

Essential items covered include butter, spread, canned food, personal hygiene products and pet treats are also included in the latest price drop, which has seen items fall by an average of some 7%.

The move is the latest of over 130 prices Aldi has reduced over the past two months across its entire range.

Consumer group Which? has named Aldi as the UK’s cheapest supermarket in July for the 14th consecutive month. On a basket of goods, Aldi was the cheapest at £71.22, £8.37 cheaper than Tesco and £16.02 lower than Waitrose. On average, shoppers save 12% on a basket goods by shopping at Aldi compared with the traditional Big Four.

Julie Ashfield, who is MD of Buying at Aldi UK, said: “Our promise is that we will always offer the lowest grocery prices and we’re doing everything we can to pass savings on to our customers. As Britain’s cheapest supermarket, shoppers are switching to Aldi from every other supermarket.”

www.aldi.co.uk

Tesco’s 'ambitious' net zero targets validated

Tesco has outlined an 'ambitious' plan for emissions reduction across its own operations and value chain as it becomes one of the first retailers globally to have its net-zero science-based targets validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), the official body that validates climate targets.

Tesco’s targets include stretching interim commitments to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions from its own operations by 85% by 2030 from a 2015 baseline year, absolute Scope 3 emissions from energy and industrial sources by 55% by 2032 from a 2019 baseline year, and absolute Scope 3 emissions from FLAG emissions by 39% by 2032 from a 2019 baseline year. 

Tesco is also one of the first companies globally to have specific, SBTi-validated targets focused on greenhouse gas emissions originating from ‘forests, land and agriculture’.

The validated targets will see Tesco working towards its commitment to become carbon neutral across its own operations by 2035, and value chain by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement’s aim of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5C. 

The retailer has set out its emissions reduction priorities through its Planet agenda. Activity will be grouped across six areas: Improve Products; Decarbonise Transport; Reduce Store Emissions; Support Sustainable Consumption; Eliminate Waste; and Protect Nature. 

Activity are to include the scaling up of deforestation-free feed sources; further roll-out of agricultural innovations such as low carbon fertiliser; and the continued decarbonisation of Tesco’s store estate and transport networks. 

Ken Murphy, Tesco Group CEO said: “With the effects of climate change upon us, we’re committed to achieving our target of net zero by 2050. It will require us to transform the way we operate our business, from how we produce our products in partnership with suppliers, how we run our stores and transport network, and how we encourage our customers to make healthy and sustainable choices. 

“We’ve led the way on action on climate change, from adopting 100% renewable electricity across the whole Tesco group, to scaling innovations in our supply chains. We must work even harder, in collaboration with suppliers and business partners, to achieve our goals. These ambitious targets, validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative, now provide us with a clear roadmap of action over the next ten years and beyond.”   

Tesco has led the way on tackling climate change, becoming the first business globally to set a net zero target in 2009, and in 2017, the first FTSE 100 company to set science-based targets for both its own operations and its supply chain.

Wednesday, 9 August 2023

That's Christmas: Cosy Autumn and Winter Bliss Awaits you and your f...

That's Christmas: Cosy Autumn and Winter Bliss Awaits you and your f...: Dreaming of an Autumn or Winter staycation full of country strolls, roaring fires and hearty pub lunches? Then you need look no further than...

Nurishh offers tasty plant-based alternatives this summer

This summer it’s time to transport your tastebuds to the Med with the latest addition to the Nurishh range of plant-based alternatives to cheese; Plant-Based Greek Style Cubes. Packed with flavour and a delightfully delicious salty kick, the tasty cubes make it easy to say “OPA!” to plant-based dining! 

With the Mediterranean diet hitting headlines and Mediterranean food long synonymous with summer sharing and al fresco dining, it’s no surprise we Brits love a taste of the Med, with TikTok views for the diet coming in at over 25m.

Conveniently pre-cubed, the Nurishh Plant-Based Greek Style Cubes are ideal for mezze boards or sprinkling onto salads. They deliver a mouth-watering flavour whilst also being dairy and lactose free.

What’s more, if you are curious to try more plant-based options, there’s never been a better time to give Nurishh a go, as its “Try Me Free” offer is running until 13st August. Allowing shoppers who purchase Nurishh from Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado or Co-Op to claim their money back by visiting www.nurishh-trymefree.com. The offer includes the new Greek Style Cubes plus Gran Vegiano, Garlic & Herbs Spread, Cheddar Flavour Slices and Plant-Based Alternative to Camembert. And with 81% of customers who try it[ii] loving it, the entire Nurishh range is the ideal accompaniment for coming together with family and friends to enjoy flavourful food this summer!

“Try Me Free” Terms & Conditions

UK 18+ only. Purchase of promotional pack AND Internet access required. RETAIN RECEIPT. Purchase between: 00:01 15/5/23 – 23:59 13/8/23. To participate: Purchase Nurishh product with promotional sticker, access www.nurishh-trymefree.com , submit copy receipt, name, email, and postal address – must submit claim by end 27/8/23. Max. 1 refund (by BACS) per qualifying purchase, max 5 claims per household. Full terms: www.nurishh-trymefree.com

(EDITOR: I must admit that my wife and I are now fans of Nurishh plant-based cheese alternatives. They taste excellent and because they are dairy and lactose free suit our health requirements. Not everyone who has to avoid cheese does so because they are vegans, some do so on health grounds.)

Everersfield Organic launches new restaurant

Eversfield Organic, which is one of the UK's leading organic grocery stores, is absolutely thrilled to  be able to announce the opening of a new restaurant, The Farm Kitchen at its Totnes Farm Shop, Deli, and Cafe. 

The new restaurant offers an immersive dining experience, focusing on sharing the joy of eating great food with great companions.

Located above the farm shop and café at its premises on The Plains, Totnes (TQ9 5DR for your satnav!), The Farm Kitchen is a restaurant which brings communal feasting to South Devon with carefully curated sharing boards, steaks, and fondue as the highlights of its menu inspired by traditional Swiss Alpine offerings and produce from its adjacent organic farm.

With Eversfield Organic's mantra of 'enjoy food, enjoy life,' this is a fantastic dining experience which does precisely that, bringing people together who love good food and great, enjoyable conversations. It's a place to embrace the colder months with a gathering of friends and refuel with delicious, satisfying foods.

Grass fed beef that's succulent and absolutely filled with flavour will be cooked to perfection by the guests themselves on a dedicated hot stone; and there will also be bountiful grazing boards - meat, cheese and charcuterie and a veg boards, which are packed with seasonal and organic veggies, with marinades to be poured on. 

If guests opt for a fondue, a cauldron of delicious, melted cheese will be kept warm for dipping various offerings, swirling them into the cheese to create food that's incredibly, utterly delicious.

Mark Bury, who is the MD of Eversfield Organic, expressed his excitement about the new venture, saying, "Tucking into sharing plates which are as beautiful as they are tasty, cooking our organic beef on hot stones, and sharing mouth-watering fondue is a truly wonderful way to truly appreciate incredible food that is full of the flavours and tastes of the Westcountry. The boards are simply stunning. They're absolute works of art that make you really appreciate the food that's laid before you."

He further emphasised the philosophy behind The Farm Kitchen, "It's about slowing down, cooking, dipping, savouring, and relishing beautiful food that's been consciously reared and grown."

The compact menus at The Farm Kitchen feature steak and fondue for two, complemented by sharing boards of salads, sides, and desserts that reflect the changing seasons,  with delicious organic wines available to compliment the equally delicious food. These wines are made from organically grown grapes with minimal or reduced amounts of added sulphites.

Eversfield Organic was founded in 2004 by Mark Bury, starting as a local organic grocery service. It has since grown to offer nationwide deliveries. Alongside its online presence, Eversfield Organic operates various farm shops, organic inns, and cafes. Notably, the company runs the butcher's and fishmongers in Selfridges Food Hall, London. 

www.eversfieldorganic.co.uk

(EDITOR: Thinking ahead, this could well make a very good venue for dining over the Christmas period.)

Food Rebels: Taste the Sharp Rebellion!

Introducing Food Rebels, a brand-new podcast and radio show which is solely dedicated to celebrating food challenger brands, food founders, and spotlighting personalities who dare to do things a bit differently.

The exciting 30-minute show, which launches with a listenership of over 30,000 thanks to its radio partners, will be packed with intriguing interviews and thought-provoking discussions from the exciting world of challenger brands.

The Host

Food Rebels is hosted by AJ Sharp, former co-host and presenter of The FoodTalk Show.  AJ is an experienced radio presenter, food expert, entrepreneur, broadcaster and food awards judge. She will bring her knowledge of food, entrepreneurialism, and friendly style to every episode, alongside a host of expert guest presenters.

Guest Presenters

The first four episodes kick off with ITV's Lorraine cake club winner, demo chef and food expert Suzy Pelta in the Guest Presenter's hot seat. After that, AJ's going to be joined by Colin Mordi, who founded Food Sauce, an agency dedicated to helping black and ethnic minority food founders to succeed. 

Next up, the Food Rebels team are excited to welcome the owner of award-winning Tempus Charcuterie and MasterChef 2010 winner, Dhruv Baker to the Guest Presenter's chair during October.

Guests and Scheduling

The schedule is already jammed-packed with brand founders, celebrities, and future stars, as well as experts you will recognise from TV and radio.

Food Rebels airs every Wednesday at 5pm, live through radio stations all over the UK as well as all the podcasting apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music.

Says AJ Sharp, host and presenter of Food Rebels: “Please join us on a journey behind the scenes, where secrets are shared, wisdom is imparted, live tastings, and a feast of food and drink entertainment for our listeners across the UK and beyond.”

The first episode of Food Rebels aired on 2nd of August, and you can listen again on www.foodrebels.co.uk.

Production Team and Guest Booker is Beshley Clague

hello@foodrebels.co.uk

Please see criteria for guest requests: https://www.foodrebels.co.uk/faqs

New Caramelised Apple Yoghurt from Bonne Maman

As part of the That's Food and Drink series of features on deserts, we bring you special news from Bonne Maman of their new caramelised apple yoghurt.

They are introducing a sensational new flavour to the Bonne Maman Fruit Yoghurt range, Caramelised Apple. Containing generous servings of the tastiest of proper caramelised apples, which have been gently cooked to perfection, swirled throughout an undeniably luscious yoghurt, the unique flavour combination offers a balance of sweetness and creaminess that's utterly irresistible. 

Presented in large 450g pots, Bonne Maman Large Pot Yoghurts are specially designed for sharing. The perfect treat for a night in, or a little after dinner indulgence, without the calories of ice-cream, this tempting new flavour joins three other equally delicious yoghurts: Strawberries and the tangiest rhubarb; Raspberry and the juiciest blackberries; Violet Fig with the figgiest of figs and Morello Cherry with the plumpest cherries.

Sumptuous and intensely fruity, each Bonne Maman fruit yoghurt pot contains lots of deliciously ripe and fragrant fruit pieces, simply mixed with a thick and smooth, creamy yoghurt.

Bonne Maman Yoghurts are always made with the finest quality natural ingredients and contain no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. First available from Waitrose and Partners stores nationwide at £2.80 per 450g pot.