100% dairy-free Sheese, the Melting Sheesy Bake

100% dairy-free Sheese is an amazing produce from the Bute Island Vegan Creamery.

As you might be aware, I had to stop eating dairy cheese for health reasons and, whilst browsing through the ever-expanding "Free From" section in Morrison's, I found a ceramic pot of 100% dairy-free Sheese. 

The description drew my attention: a "melting sheeshy bake" with spring onion and garlic flavour.

So, I added it to my shopping trolley and trundled it, plus some crackers and other bit and pieces, to the checkouts.

On the rear of the pack it describes the product as a dairy-free vegan alternative to cheese, a blend of coconut oil and starches.

Cook it in your oven for 20 minutes, give it a bit of a stir, place it back in the oven for a further five minutes.

Then you can share it with friends and family members, or eat it all yourself. Which is what I did!

It's got a really nice cheesy taste to it and goes really well with crackers, roast potatoes, nachos or spread on a piece of freshly baked bread. With a nice vegan spread, or butter. Remember? I'm not a vegan!

You can learn more about the range of products here https://www.buteisland.com.

Next to try? Their Jalapeno and Chilli Melting Sheesy Bake. I've got an idea this will taste equally good, but with a bit of fire in its belly! I'll keep you posted.

Government backs earlier pub opening for pubs during World Cup Final

The Government has encouraged councils in England to allow pubs to open earlier on Sunday ahead of the Lionesses historic World Cup final.

The Secretary of State for Levelling Up has written to all leaders of councils throughout England asking them to continue doing everything they can to help every pub landlord or manager who wants to host this historic occasion and support the Lionesses.

While many venues should be able to show the game within their usual pub opening hours, there could well be a few who require additional permission where they'd like to be able to also serve alcohol.

In cases where an application is being rapidly considered to allow a short extension to licensing hours, the government is encouraging local authorities and councils to continue to do everything in their power to complete the process in time, working closely with local police forces.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove said: "The whole nation is ready to get behind the Lionesses this Sunday in what is England’s biggest game since the year 1966.

I’ve asked councils to do everything they can to help pubs get open earlier on Sunday, so people can come together and enjoy a drink before kick-off for this special occasion."

He went on to say: Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, said: "The nation will be cheering on the Lionesses on Sunday and the next best thing to being in Australia is enjoying the match in the pub or hospitality venue. 

"Many are taking advantage of the fact they can open to encourage people to come out for breakfast or brunch to get ready for this historic match. Demand from fans has been exceptional, with bookings filling rapidly, and there’s no doubt the day will be a huge boost for the sector, potentially delivering an additional £41 million in sales.

"It’s been really positive to work with the Government to ensure everyone can get a chance to join in the celebrations. I’d echo the Government’s support for local authorities taking a pragmatic view to venues opening early to allow people to make the most of this absolutely momentous occasion."

Writing to council leaders, the Levelling up Secretary thanked local authorities for everything they've already done this tournament to support the national team, including flying flags, lighting up buildings and supporting communities to hold screenings.

The Home Office is also writing to police chiefs to encourage forces to work together with local councils to ensure as many venues as possible can participate in this momentous event.

This is part of the government’s commitment to backing British pubs, and follows this week’s announcement of an extension to licensing rules that enabling pubs to continue selling takeaway alcohol without red tape holding them back unnecessarily. 

(Image courtesy of Charles from Pixabay)

Traditional English Breakfast set to be dish of the day

Sunday morning promises to be the biggest breakfast of the year as football fans gather around their TV sets in the hope England can finally bring it home. 

Waitrose shops have stocked up on bacon, eggs, sausage and English fizz ready for the kick off on Sunday morning. Searches on Waitrose.com for ‘brunch’ are already up +54% on the previous week, and that's a sure sign families and friends will be gathering together to cheer on England. 

Searches for their Lion Birthday cake are up +45% this month, compared to last - indicating it’s become a go to treat for all football celebrations. 

Nathan Ansell, Waitrose's Customer Director, said: “All the ingredients for a great brunch will be flying off the shelves quicker than a Lauren Hemp strike. Customers are already looking to celebrate with cooked breakfasts, -and some chilled fizz in readiness for a potential win, too. “We expect Deliveroo and Uber Eats to be busy with enthralled fans unable to tear themselves away from the action to secure their last minute snacks.”

Customers at John Lewis department stores are also getting themselves match ready. Sales of children’s football boots have more than doubled since last week, while sales of TVs have climbed by 25% on last year.

In contrast to 1966 - when an England team last reached a World Cup Final - we expect more people to be watching the final at home with family and friends this Sunday. Fifty seven years ago fewer people owned TVs and customers crowded into their TV departments to watch the big match. An extract from their archives written by one of their Shop Floor Partners in 1966 describes the day in one of their London shops.

"Partners and customers from the elderly and sedate to the Mods (or Rockers)' sat on the floor to watch the World Cup Final in the TV department.... I even chatted to them and collected their lighted cigarette stubs when they asked for Ashtrays.... I suppose it was about a thousand to one that a television set would be sold whilst the match was on...but after about five minutes a SOLD ticket was placed on the top of the set..."’ 

M&S will put some Spark into your life with free shopping!

This Saturday (19th August), 5,000 M&S customers in the UK and ROI will get their shopping for free as the retailer launches the first of its kind ‘Sparks Super Saturday.’  

Sparks Super Saturday is a supersized version of M&S’ popular Sparks giveaway where every week, in every store, a Sparks customer gets their shopping for free. Since M&S relaunched Sparks, its customer reward scheme, back in 2020, they've given away £3.5 million in free shopping including a free shop worth nearly £3.5k.   

To be in with a chance of winning, all customers have to do is scan their Sparks card when shopping at their chosen M&S store, or by logging into their Sparks account when shopping online. Customers shopping in store will learn the good news immediately, whilst those shopping online will be notified via email as soon as possible.  

M&S is encouraging customers who aren't yet a Sparks member to sign-up ahead of the weekend bonanza. Customers can join in a few simple steps through M&S.com or the M&S app. 

Kirsty Ward, who is Director of M&S Connect, said: “Since relaunching Sparks as a Digital First loyalty scheme, we’ve doubled the number of Sparks members, rewarding them with personalised offers, special treats and thank yous."

She went on to add: "And one of Sparks’ members most loved rewards is the chance to get their shopping for free so, for one day only, we’re supersizing it and giving 5,000 lucky customers the opportunity to get their shopping for free, simply by shopping and scanning their Sparks card in store or online!” 

https://www.marksandspencer.com.

Speciality Food & Drink Show Date Announced for Glasgow

You'll be able to re-stock your food and drink shelves with new brands and innovative ranges which will be on show at the Speciality Food & Drink Show from 21-23 Jan 2024 at the SEC, Glasgow. 

Operated in conjunction with Scotland's Trade Show this is the principal buying arena for fine food and drink in Scotland.

Entrepreneurship is alive and well in the Scottish food and drink industry, with the Show's Launch Gallery for new, young companies nearly at capacity. 

With a wide range of products from dips to oat milk, coffee to hemp, this central zone features companies like Pochle (Incholm Distilling), MYXD Scottish Cocktails, Little Birdie Coffee, Three Robins oat milk and the D!P club among the many launch exhibitors.

With many of the producers doing both food and drink, the Show's updated its name to reflect this. This is expected to attract even more innovative drinks producers from soft drinks through to spirits.

As the only fine food trade show in Scotland during 2024, this will be a key location for farm shops, delis, tourist shops, cafes, restaurants and fine food shops to seek out new products and taste and re-connect with existing suppliers.

Overseas visitors have been in short supply during the last few years but with a weak Pound and all areas open to travel again, hospitality venues and tourist outlets across Scotland are seeing tourists return in their droves. Many are having to re-stock regularly, and this bodes very well for suppliers and the Speciality Food & Drink Show.

Mark Saunders, who is Show Director, says: “It's clear trade shows play a vital and key part in the buying programme for food shops, hospitality and retail outlets. 

"They want to meet the suppliers face to face, look, feel and taste the products and ensure they are sourcing the best stock for their shops. This Show offers this in a creative and welcoming environment and so attracts a wide range of suppliers. Our Show in January promises to offer innovative, delicious products and a host of added extras to interest buyers. Make sure the date's firmly in your diary!”

Scotland's regions are renowned for their produce and there will be several regional food and drink stands, including a large one from Orkney.

Callum Nimmo, Tesco local food buyer said of the Show: “I was just blown away by the variety of suppliers that were exhibiting at the Specialty Food & Drink Show. I found it particularly interesting speaking to owners and brand ambassadors to learn about their company and products straight from the source and to hear their ambitions for the future. I'd highly recommend the event to any buyer in the food industry as there's something to inspire everyone.”

FOOD FACTS:- Speciality Food & Drink Show– 21st-23rd Jan 2024, SEC, Glasgow Run in conjunction with Scotland's Trade Fairs Organised by Springboard Events: Tel: 01877 38577 www.scotlandstradefairs.com

That's Christmas: Craft Gin Club Launches Gin Advent Calendar to Wel...

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Good news for shoppers in Kent

The Co-op is relocating to a new, purpose-built, near 3,000 sq ft store on Hever Road, West Kingsdown.

The new store supports 21 local jobs, with some new positions being created. It's nearly 50% larger than its previous store in the village, with improved back-of-shop storage to further enhance the range, choice and availability.

Opening from 6am to 10pm daily, the new store includes a free ATM to offer access to cash, an in-store bakery, hot food and, a Costa coffee dispenser.

Amazon parcel collections are to be included, and there'll be an enhanced range of fresh, healthy products; meal ideas; everyday essentials; food-to-go; Fairtrade products, flowers, chilled beers and award winning wines; ready meals, pizzas and, free-from; vegan and plant-based products, including Co-op’s very own exclusive vegan range, GRO. (EDITOR: Love this range. And I'm not actually vegan!) 

Tom Cox, Co-op Store Manager, said: “It's really very exciting to be launching Co-op’s newest store. Our aim is to always operate at the heart of local life and, we are really looking forward to welcoming Members and customers into their new and improved store. We worked to develop the range, choice and added services to create a compelling offer to serve our community, conveniently. With a focus on delivering member-value so that the people who own our business, our members, benefit every time they shop.”

To learn more visit www.coop.co.uk/membership

Fakery will help the Co-op defeat criminals

The Co-op is extending its trial of anti-theft ‘dummy display packaging’ for targeted products on its shelves to deter rising levels of crime driven by prolific and persistent offenders and local organised crime gangs.

The aim of the move is to help curb bulk-shoplifting, described as ‘looting’ in the worst instances.

The packaging will be used across higher value products on its shelves frequently targeted by criminals for re-sale, in stores where there's a known, local issue. Products to be included are: coffee; washing powder and laundry gel, with shoppers simply taking the dummy display case to the shop's till where it will be swapped for the actual product. The Co-op has previously used the anti-theft packaging in a limited number of stores, and it expects it to 'continue to become a more familiar feature in retailing'.

Last month, July, the Co-op revealed it had witnessed record levels of crime, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour with nearly 1,000 incidents every day in the six months to June (2023) that's a 35% Year on year increase. Industry reports reveal almost two-thirds (63%) of crime is driven by repeat and prolific offenders, with drug or alcohol addiction issues and local organised criminal gangs, among the main drivers of offending.

Co-op warned this level of out-of-control crime isn't sustainable and could even see some communities become a no-go area for local stores with many Police forces refusing to prioritise retail crime. A freedom of information (FOI) request revealed on average, 71% of serious retail crime aren't responded to by Police, and the Co-op is calling on all police forces and crime commissioners to target prolific offenders and local organised crime gangs to reverse the existing environment where they operate with apparent impunity and without fear of being caught or charged.

Kate Graham, Co-op's Director of Operations, said: “Crime in many communities is growing and it's known repeat and prolific offenders and local organised crime gangs are driving serious incidents of brazen and violent theft in stores."

Kate went on to explain: "It's an ongoing challenge for all retailers, and often a flashpoint for attacks and abuse towards our colleagues. Co-op continues to invest significantly in keeping colleagues and stores safe. This includes extending use of dummy display cases to deter the incidents of ‘bulk-shoplifting’ or, ‘looting’, as it's described, where criminals sweep products off shelves for re-sale.

"While we are doing all we can, we need the police to play their part as all too often, Forces fail to respond to desperate calls by our store teams and criminals operate in communities without any fear of consequences.”

The Co-op has invested in excess of £200M in recent years in colleague and community safety initiatives to counter criminal behaviour, per store this equates to four times the average convenience sector spend on security and safety measures.

With safety a key priority, the Co-op uses a wide range of  measures to deter criminal behaviour. This includes: interactive and remote monitored CCTV; body-worn cameras, which can transmit real time audio and visual footage to its security operations centre at the touch of a button; communication headsets for frontline colleagues; covert and non-covert guarding; Smartwater and GPS tracked security cases, plus anti-theft ‘dummy display cases’ which Co-op believes will continue to become a more familiar feature in retailing.

Get your cooking up to scratch with the help of Asda

To help customers get more adventurous in the kitchen, but without breaking the bank, Asda's announced the launch of a new 132-product strong scratch-cooking range.

According to research, over half of us UK home cooks enjoy experimenting with new cooking trends and ingredients, but one in five of us feel like we struggle to get the seasonings right. 

Born from the belief so-called scratch-cooking should be simple, accessible and inspiring, the Cook by Asda range includes affordable, high-quality, pre-prepared ingredients starting at a mere 80p.

Featuring over 40 brand-new products, Cook by Asda spans in excess of 10 cuisines types, including Indian, Thai, Japanese, Middle Eastern, North African, Italian, American and more besides. With hundreds of ingredients available under one roof, the new range makes it quicker and easier for anyone to expand their flavour horizons and create restaurant-worthy meals at home for less than you might expect..

Asda shoppers who are keen to cook more Asian-inspired dishes, can pick up the spicy Gochujang Paste (£1.25) or citrusy Lemongrass Paste (£1.25), which is ideal for curries, soups, stews or marinades. 

The Nooch Seasoning (£1) and crispy Chipotle Breadcrumbs (£1.50) add a unique, savoury edge to family favourites like a smoky Chipotle Mac and Cheese, which can be found on Asda Good Living.

Whether it’s an aromatic vegetable tagine seasoned with Ras El Hanout (£1) or indulgent loaded fries topped with Dirty Fries Seasoning (£1). A delicious chicken traybake with Harissa Paste (£2.10) or freshly-made Fattoush Salad seasoned with Sumac (80p); there really is something for everyone in the new range, which spans dry herbs, spices, seasonings, pastes, plus a range of frozen herbs and vegetables.

Customers can also find QR codes on the range's larger packs, which will take them to Asda Good Living recipe pages. From Gochujang Scrambled Eggs to Nooch Sirloin Steak, customers can find video guidance and recommendations of how to use the products, plus step-by-step recipes, presented by a range of social media foodies, like @Atlanta_Thompson and @Bobbys_ktchn.

Ellie Beecham, Assistant Brand Manager at Asda, says: “At Asda, we believe healthy, flavoursome cooking should be accessible to all, which is why we’ve developed our new range, Cook by Asda, and we hope it will inspire customers to scratch cook at home.

"Whether you’re looking to add some new excitement to weeknight family meals or cook a date-night dinner to impress, our new range can transform any dish, making home-cooking easy and delicious!”

The Cook by Asda range will be launching this month, August, in-store and online.

www.asda.com

Aldi's going to give £100 shopping vouchers to lucky customers

In order to help shoppers celebrate the August bank holiday weekend, Aldi is giving customers the chance to win their shopping for free.

Aldi's giving away £100 vouchers to 20 lucky shoppers to purchase all the food and drink they need to kick start the long Bank Holiday weekend celebrations.

To be in with a chance to win, all entrants have to do is visit Aldi’s Facebook page, where the competition is being hosted, and comment on the post by sharing what their bank holiday weekend plans will be.

Entries are open from now until 11.59pm on Monday 21st August, with winners being contacted on Tuesday 22nd  for the e-vouchers to be sent in time for them to stock up on all their bank holiday essentials.

Aldi's Bank Holiday weekend must-haves are already available in stores and include a wide variety of summer party essentials, like Specially Selected BBQ items and Aldi's own-brand sides and desserts.

Richard Thornton, who is Communications Director at Aldi UK, said: “With the long weekend just around the corner, I’m sure lots of people will be coming together to enjoy the bank holiday with family and friends.

“We hope our vouchers will give customers the chance to make the most of the weekend, helping to cover the cost of their bank holiday essentials so they can put all their attention into hosting.”

To find out more and to enter the competition visit: https://www.facebook.com/AldiUK/posts/pfbid0Qi3ufJzQmQu3C5opEN1nG7TqyXWYoT2XKmC5jH8yHfbMbUXGo6jsMj3MRnEcscrxl