Should Food and Drink Festivals Have Live Music?
19/03/2026
Should a food and drink festival have live music, or should the focus stay purely on the food and drink?
What can Cities Learn from Books?
19/03/2026
In this week’s blog, Martin Liptrot explores what cities can learn from the world of books. Reflecting on MIPIM, he highlights the importance of a clear identity, focused messaging and authentic storytelling in helping places stand out and attract investment.
Independent Festivals Vs The Giants
12/03/2026
In this week’s blog, Steven reflects on the growing gap between independent festivals and major operators, and why supporting community-driven events like Deva Fest is vital to keeping the spirit and diversity of the live music scene alive.
Curiosity – Bad for Cats but Could Have Helped Starmer
12/03/2026
In this week’s blog, Jo examines the controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as Britain’s ambassador to Washington and questions the judgement of Keir Starmer after reports that warnings about the decision were raised but ignored.
Getting From Here to There in Iran
03/03/2026
Jim looks at all the possible outcomes of the Iran war, and is not optimistic. He also urges caution about the Green victory in Gorton and Denton.
The Great Art of Hospitality Round Up Blog
27/02/2026
In this weeks blog, Steven Hesketh reflects upon the Great Art of Hospitality 2026.
A Week in America | 19 February 2026
19/02/2026
As the US administration shifts to an ever more ‘isolationist’ stance – Martin asks: ‘What does this mean for UK and European businesses?’
Onwards to Gorton with a Wounded Leader
12/02/2026
Against the continuing fallout of the massive Epstein scandal, Jim assesses how it will play in the forthcoming Gorton and Denton by election
Time to Level the Playing Field on Britain’s Roads
05/02/2026
E-bikes and e-scooters are driving Frank McKenna mad. They need to be properly regulated, and motorists and pedestrians protected from the increasingly erratic and dangerous cyclists and scooterists.
A Week in America | 29 January 2026
29/01/2026
This week Martin looks forward to the Gorton and Denton by-election and sees parallels to the rise of the populist movement MAGA in the United States…
A Big New Exciting Project, and saving an institution!
22/01/2026
In this week’s blog, Steven discusses taking on the Chester Food and Drink Festival, saving a much-loved Easter tradition, and the ten-week challenge of reimagining it as the Cheshire and North Wales Food and Drink Festival.
The Banker V the Bully
22/01/2026
This week, Jo reflects on Trump’s chaos, Europe’s uncertainty, and why standing up to power now matters more than appeasing it.