InBrief
Swindon's plan for the ban
Swindon Borough Council is planning to pedestrianise half of Fleet Street in the New Town circuit to cope with the smoking ban. This will allow venues such as Walkabout, Groves Company Inn, Big Fish, Rush and Lava Lounge to have larger permanent outside areas on the pavement. The council hopes this will deter drinkers from gathering in the road after bars shut.
Romford bars in gay trade battle
Venues along the central South Street circuit in Romford, Essex, are engaging in cut-throat competition every Tuesday night, according to CGA Strategy. Bar 131, Edwards and Yates's have all launched their own gay night on a Tuesday. In the battle to become the most popular, drinks prices are being slashed.
Camden's winning bars announced
The winners of Camden Best Bar None 2007 have been crowned at a glittering awards ceremony. The Best Bar title was won by University of London Union in Malet Street; Best Pub is Penderels Oak in High Holburn, and Best Club is the End in West Central Street, all in WC1. The popular contest, which attracted a record number of entrants this year, aims to help cut alcohol-related crime and disorder by recognising
well-run bars, pubs and clubs in Camden.
Cadbury focuses on confectionery
Cadbury Schweppes reportedly plans to get rid of its beverages unit as part of a five-year plan to cut jobs and concentrate on confectionery. Chief executive Todd Stitzer told reporters during a
conference call that the company aims to sell off its beverages operation and become a confectionery-only business, re-named Cadbury plc. It hopes to increase its margins from the current 10% "to the mid-teens by 2011".
Cashbox machines for Marston's
Marston's has appointed ATM operator Cashbox as sole supplier to its tenanted estate. An ATM is offered free of charge to tenants and then is replenished by the tenant, eliminating the need for third-party cash-handling costs. "The Cashbox model means our tenants can offer their customers an additional service with absolutely no financial risk to themselves," said Marstons' James Coxon.
