The Return of Empires
14/01/2026
Jim reflects on the breakdown of international order and suggests it poses a fundamental challenge to the mindset of us Europeans.
How to Be a Dream Guest Guide (Not Just on New Year’s Eve)
08/01/2026
In this week’s blog, Steven discusses why New Year’s Eve is the hospitality Olympics — and how guest behaviour can make the difference between a brilliant night and a brutal shift. From turning up on time to respecting last orders, it’s a raw, honest look at what really helps busy services run smoothly.
Business Rates Change Is Welcome — But If It Leaves Hospitality Worse Off, It Has Failed
08/01/2026
In a special joint blog with Liverpool Business Improvement District boss, Bill Addy, Frank discusses the governments Business Rates Change and asks how it will affect the hospitality industry.
A Week in America | 1 January 2026
05/01/2026
In this week’s blog, Martin reflects on a year dominated by lone actors and fractured trust—and asks whether 2026 could mark a return to collaboration, partnership, and shared purpose.
A thoroughly depressing year
23/12/2025
Jim is not in the festive spirit as he gives 2025 the thumbs down with little sign of optimism for the New Year.
The Maths That Proves Hospitality Is Being Set Up to Fail – Budget Blog
18/12/2025
In this week’s blog Steven discusses how rising costs and government policy are putting increasing pressure on hospitality businesses. Steven explains, in simple terms, how the numbers no longer add up, why independent operators are being pushed to the edge, and what this means for staff, service, investment and the future of local high streets.
Seven Cities. One Year. And a Government That Must Finally Mean It on Growth.
18/12/2025
In his final blog of the year, Frank McKenna sets out his new year wish list for the major cities and counties that DIB operates in – and offers the government a route map to growth.
A Week in America | 12 December 2025
11/12/2025
In this week’s blog, Martin examines the growing gap between America’s economic headlines and how people actually feel. Despite strong GDP figures and soaring markets, households remain squeezed by stubborn prices, rising unemployment, and fragile confidence. As Trump marks his first year back in office, Martin unpacks why voters are increasingly frustrated — and how this disconnect could shape the 2026 midterms.
Three Awards, Zero Wins – And Why I’m Still Proud
10/12/2025
In this week’s blog Steven reflects upon three recent award ceremonies.
Creeping slowly back to Europe
04/12/2025
In this week’s blog, Jo explores the growing recognition that Brexit has had serious economic and social costs for the UK. Changing global events are making closer cooperation with Europe increasingly important. Jo argues that now is the time to rebuild relationships and rethink how the UK engages with its continental neighbours.
What the budget means for hospitality and independents
28/11/2025
In this week’s blog Steven reflects on the Budget and what this means for the hospitality industry.
The Biggest Loser in This Year’s Budget? The Budget Itself
27/11/2025
There will be a lot of people – including our very own Jim Hancock – who have analysed the budget, in an effort to predict whether it will be ‘good’ or ‘bad’ for the economy. Only time will tell on that. However, what is indisputable, is that the whole budget process- the leaks, the circus, the created drama – is well past its sell-by date. There must be a better way.