Eat Drink Sleep - August 2023

THE LATEST EPISODE IN THE HOTEL HYPNOS SERIES: Escape to the country to discover a stay like no other at UK’s first deconstructed hotel [click

The use of fruit in beer is nothing new and in today’s ‘anything goes’ brewing landscape, it’s seeing a resurgence as brewers experiment with styles and flavours, both ancient and experimental. Fruited beers provide an opportunity for the hospitality industry to offer something new and creative that sets them apart from other establishments.

WHEN FRUIT EQUALS LOOT!

An exploration into the use of American craft brewing with fruit

In the States, American craft brewers, renowned for their innovation and creativity, are pushing the boundaries of brewing with fruit to develop ground-breaking new styles, tastes and flavours. According to the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers, fruited beers, in their many different guises, are growing with the category up 8% in 2022*. They appeal to today’s young drinkers who are seeking less bitterness in their beer choices and exploring light, fruity, tart, refreshing styles with a soft mouthfeel or heavily fruited bold and complex fruit-forward beers. Fruited beers also appeal to the aging craft beer drinker who is tiring of intensely bitter beers and seeking something light or fruity.

903 Brewing Co from Sherman, Texas, releases four new heavily fruited sour beers per month based on fruits that are in season. Jeremy Roberts, co-owner/founder of the brewery claims that the trend towards fruited beers is growing and explains: “We’re seeing more and more consumers getting burned out on beer. Ready-to-drink cocktails are a growing trend that people are increasingly drinking instead of beer. Getting people excited about beer again is not easy but heavily fruited sours and sours that taste like cocktails appeal to the non-beer drinkers and to those who are looking for more flavour.”

And it’s not only the youth of today who are enjoying such beers. Roberts continues: “We guessed that our heavily fruited sours would be just for the young drinkers, but that’s not the case.  People in their 20’s and 70’s enjoy our heavily fruited sours!”

Fruit can be added to almost any style of beer but is most commonly used in low-hopped wheat or blonde ales, Berliner Weisse and sour beers, hazy/juicy IPAs, barrel-aged beers and even pastry stouts. Fruit can work with a broad spectrum of alcohol strengths and provides sweetness that can be balanced by a high level of acidity.

American craft beer is available through national wholesalers or on line from Athletic Brewing, or the Cascade Club Chefs and restauranteurs are invited to make use of the free resources available on www.brewersassociation.org or www.craftbeer.com

I Ching Radiator awarded the Best of the Best at Red Dot Design Awards

I Ching, the stainless steel heated towel rail designed by Elisa Ossinoa and available from The Radiator Centre, has captured the attention of the 43 judges at this year’s Red Dot Design Awards.  Beating thousands of entries from over 60 countries, it won an award in the Product Design section and in the most prestigious category: the Best of the Best.

The distinction “Red Dot” has become established internationally as one of the most sought-after seals of quality for good design and now the I Ching has joined this exclusive group of innovative products to receive one.

The I Ching is a radiator like no other, appearing more like a piece of art and making a bold design statement.  It’s minimalist, simplistic form hides a complex technical component and it’s 24 volt low voltage with transformer kit makes it safe even when positioned in wet areas, such as above a bath or in a walk-in shower.

Nick Duggan, MD at The Radiator Centre comments, ‘The I Ching is a really innovative and flexible product so I wasn’t surprised when it won.  It’s not like anything we’ve seen before in terms of its streamlined appearance, having no wires or technical components visible, despite the advanced technology it has.  It can also be operated by a digital, wireless thermostat which can be programmed for a week, helping to manage energy consumption.’

Depending on the space available customers can choose to install anything between one and five of the heating panels which come in four different lengths and can be hung vertically or horizontally, to create a totally unique design.

The Radiator Centre.

01727 840344

www.theradiatorcentre.com

LATEST AMERICAN CRAFT BEER TRENDS

Every year, the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit association representing small and independent American craft brewers, commissions consumer research into the changing preferences of beer drinkers, information that is relevant to the UK hospitality industry because trends that start in America often make their way overseas.

Choosing a Beer

When asked about factors influencing beer preference, flavour remains a key driver of purchase intent with 95% emphasising its significance. Crisp as a flavour profile is the most popular, universally liked flavour, followed by juicy/hazy, fruit-forward variants, and hoppy/ bitter and spicy. While juicy/hazy and fruitforward (sweet) beers displayed the most growth, malty/dark and tart flavours remained static or experienced a slight decline.

Beyond flavour, freshness and aroma emerged as key considerations, with alcohol content levels proving increasingly important as well. Approximately 60% of respondents said high ABV was important while approximately 30% expressed a preference for low ABV options. What’s noteworthy is the interest in ABVs from the two youngest age categories of 21–34 yearold and 35–44 year-old. Both age groups clearly care more about alcohol content then their older counterparts.

Brand Importance

We asked people whether their purchasing decisions were based on style or brand first. Eight years ago the response was 80:20 in favour of style and now it’s 60:40 style then brand, reflecting the number of different options now available and how important branding has become.

Styles and Trends

In 2022, the IPA category accounted for 43% of all craft beer sales in the US, up from 30% in 2017. The category has grown because it has changed and taken on new dimensions, offering options that depart from its original characterisation as bitter beer. Newer substyles exhibit more juicy/hazy, less bitter profiles that invite new customers in and help grow the category.

Beyond the IPA craze, other categories performing strongly include fruit beers in a variety of iterations such as fruited classic or sour beers, and a collection of lighter, lower ABV styles like lagers, blonde ale, golden and wheat ale.

American craft beer is available through national wholesalers or on line Athletic Brewing, or the Cascade Club Many of the American craft beers available in the UK are recent medal winners from World Beer Cup 2023, the biggest and most competitive beer contest in the world.

Free resources for chefs and restauranteurs are available on www.brewersassociation.org or www.craftbeer.com

Kenwood Hall’s Dining Domes are a Clear Winner for Corporate Events

Unique event dining space unveiled at Sheffield’s premier conference and events venue

Conference and event planners can now take advantage of a new outdoor dining space at the Mercure Sheffield

Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa, as this popular Sheffield hotel and events venue has unveiled three new private dining pods this month. Each occupy a prime vantage point high on the Hotel’s manicured lawns, from where delegates can enjoy a choice of breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, whilst taking in panoramic views of the private lake, and gardens.

A unique al fresco break-out space for delegate networking or a team building lunch, or an alternative to restaurant dining for a post-conference or event meal, the domes host up to 18-24 guests sharing round tables of six or eight. There is the option to hire one, multiple, or all the domes exclusively, depending on the size of your event. Those with a larger corporate event in mind can hire the domes for the entire day and evening, scheduling different dining options for delegates throughout the conference timetable.

Domes come fully airconditioned and lit in the evening. Delegates can enjoy delicious sharing charcuterie boards starting at £13.99 per person, a selection of succulent roasts from £17.00 per person and the ultimate dessert sharing platter at £10 per person, which is fast becoming a guests’ favourite. Alternatively, they can feast on a breakfast or brunch menu. Where better to get ready for a full day of learning and networking than in a breakfast dome at sunrise, with stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside. And for an incentive event or private celebration, you can try a stylish afternoon tea, courtesy of the Hotel’s Laura Ashley The Tea Room.

Dome hire costs from £30 for two hours plus the cost of your menu choice and drinks. To find out more, or book visit: https://www.kenwoodhall.co.uk/dining/dome-dining/

Ruslana Yarmolyuk, general manager from Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa said: “We know are corporate clients are keen for their events to have something extra; a standout element to the day that guests will remember for a long time to come. We’re continually looking for new, innovative ways to upgrade our clients’ experience. The Domes are a shining example of this, tapping into what all our guests love about the Hotelour excellent service and stunning scenery. They provide an exciting outdoor private dining space that capitalises on our lake views, whilst being sheltered from the elements.”

Kenwood Hall Hotel & Spa is situated within 12 acres of picturesque grounds whilst being located just one mile from Sheffield City Centre and close to the M1. It offers a spa, indoor pool, bar, event spaces with capacities from eight up to 200, a Conference Café, team-building activities, evening restaurant and Laura Ashley The Tea Room; open for brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.

Free on-site car parking. Free WIFI. Day meeting rates start at £32.95 per person and 24 hour rates from £135.00 per person.

Call 01142 583811 to enquire or email: reservations@kenwoodhall.co.uk or sales@vinehotels.co.uk

100 Queen’s Gate Hotel South Kensington

The hotel for the culturally curious

A former home of Victorian aristocrat William Alexander, the hotel combines Victorian charm with modernity, with unexpected artworks and fascinating curios and oddities around each corner. The luxury bedrooms are unique in design - no two rooms are the same - featuring carefully curated art, furniture and ornaments. There are also 11 spacious suites each named after famous residents who once lived in the neighbourhood, including Agatha Christie, Henry James, and Alexander Fleming.

100 Queen’s Gate offers an array of inviting spaces for dining and drinks. Cento is the signature restaurant showcasing the very best of traditional Italian cuisine. Here, guests can enjoy a culinary journey through Italy dining from a menu that celebrates the country’s diverse regional cuisine, created by the hotel’s all-Italian team of chefs. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to host a business lunch, enjoy a meal with family or entertain friends.

100 Queen’s Gate is a five-star Victorian townhouse hotel situated in the heart of South Kensington, on the doorstep of some of the world’s most famous museums and cultural venues. The hotel features 228 unique guest rooms and suites, plus a range of restaurants, a gym and a lounge-library.

An overnight stay costs from £284 for two sharing a Queen Room.

To book, visit 100queensgate.com or call 020 7373 7878

Botanica is an elegant glass and mirrored atrium offering a quintessential British Afternoon Tea amongst the décor of cherry blossom and lavish greeneries. The menu includes a range of savoury and sweet treats, beautifully presented on a stylish tiered tower, accompanied by a selection of premium Newby teas, as well as an optional glass of Moët & Chandon Brut.

ESQ, a sophisticated and discreet subterranean bar is the perfect place for crafted cocktails and innovatively infused spirits. The bar’s expert mixologists create unique cocktails that are inspired by the hotel’s history and heritage. Guests can enjoy a relaxed and intimate atmosphere while sipping on their favourite cocktails accompanied by a paired back but exquisite food menu.

Flight Club reaches new heights in partnership with Sybron

How partnership synergy hits the cleaning Bullseye every day

Introduction/overview

Flight Club and its cleaning and hygiene partner Sybron, celebrated their first year of partnership in March 2023. As Flight Club’s parent company, Red Engine, renews its contract with Sybron, significant benefits have been identified from their collaboration including 15% cost savings, zero stress, and 100% confidence!

The first contract which was signed in March 2022 was fully mobilised in under four weeks. After the three month ‘honeymoon period’, there was no dip in the levels of service from Sybron, something which can be prevalent in many new supplier relationships. Indeed, both the purchasing manager and venue managers of Flight Club, are delighted that all it takes is just one call or email to Sybron and any issue is resolved swiftly and efficiently.

The challenge

Flight Club opened the oche at its first social darts venue in Shoreditch in 2015 with its focus on bringing joy, fun and quality time to its patrons. Today, Flight Club has grown to 13 venues across the UK, with two more planned by 2023 year-end.

When David Piazzani joined Red Engine as Purchasing Manager in October 2021, it quickly became apparent that one of his first tasks was to review the supply of consumables for cleaning and hygiene at the Flight Club sites.

“The then supplier of all the cleaning, hygiene and ancillary products caused me and our Flight Club managers a lot of stress and anxiety every day,” explains David.

“With no after-sales service and a poor response to issues and problems, we started to look for a company we could develop a real partnership with. We knew that there must be a better supplier out there with more sustainable solutions, plus the attention to detail, proactive approach and willingness to be a real business partner to us.”

The solution

When David met Sybron he knew immediately that they were the right partner and in March 2022 both companies began a relationship that still, one year on, astonishes the Flight Club team with its level of service and proactive approach to every day needs.

Hygiene Service Partner, Sybron, provides products such as cleaning and disinfectants, hand towels and toilet paper, as well as janitorial supplies including sponges, mops and brooms to all the Flight Club venues.

However, it is the Sybron ethos of differentiation through a seamless service that has delivered the bullseye for Flight Club.

“Being a buyer can sometimes be very frustrating because everyone offers you the same thing over and over again,” explains David. “Sybron take a completely different approach.”

The Sybron approach

• Regular communication with an open and honest dialogue.

• Sybron deals directly with venue managers, ‘I don’t have to be the middle-man’ says David.

• Problems and issues are dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

Cases in point!

• In 2022 the Bloomsbury Flight Club in central London had a random council and risk assessment. The manager immediately emailed Sybron, who replied within 30 minutes and provided all the additional information requested by the inspector.

• In December 2022 the Bloomsbury Flight Club site had all its sanitary bins unexpectedly removed by the previous contractor, leaving no facilities for that day. Within a few hours of being alerted to the problem Sybron had delivered, set up and installed bins ready for use, so there was no disruption of service.

Sybron has a pro-active approach to managing our account.

The team is consistently taking initiative and provides alternatives if there is a spike in price or a supply issue.

Sybron finds the best product, explains why it is better and what the environmental benefit is – they don’t just provide a catalogue and ask you to choose.

The Sybron approach is to engage with staff to plan and avoid problems before they happen.

They do not wait for busy managers to call them with urgent supply issues.

“Usually, Sybron has presented us with the solution before the problem arises,” explains David. “That’s because Sybron is totally aligned and integrated with our business. This gives me and the Flight Club team the confidence that someone is thinking on our behalf.

“Having a partner that understands the nature of our business means that I don’t have to repeat or re-explain anything. We discuss it once and it is done.”

The results

As a result of its partnership with Sybron Flight Club bagged a cost saving of 15% across all its sites.

But as David says: “We have saved a lot of money, but to me the cost is secondary to the service. A good price is pointless without the service. Sybron delivers zero stress and the fact that I have 100% confidence is equally valuable.

“When I find a partner like Sybron, it makes my life easy. Now they are completely symbiotic with us in terms of growth and are completely integrated into our operations for the opening of a new venue. I am not even a part of

it anymore, it just happens automatically. I don’t have to be the middle-man as with many suppliers. It is a dream partnership.”

Our customers are our partners

“Of course, service is a big part of our business,” explains Brad, director of operations at Sybron. “We are completely focused on both solving any problems promptly, but also on working to make sure there are no glitches or setbacks in the first place.

“That has always been our take on business. We see every contract as a joint partnership where we help both businesses move forward and grow. That does not happen by being reactive, so we differentiate ourselves by a wholly proactive and integrated approach.

“It is thanks to our team that we have created the synergy with Flight Club, particularly our colleagues in the office and our drivers. Our ethos resonates across the whole company – our customers are our partners, and they have a name rather than a number.”

Sustainable growth

Flight Club has doubled its estate for venues in over three years and by the end of 2023 will have 15 locations, including the first site to open in Scotland.

“With such massive growth, some things can get a bit lost. The partnership with Sybron has enabled us to meet our environmental goals to switch to eco cleaning products,” explains David.

“Moving such a big ship over to using solely sustainable products is not something that can happen overnight. However, thanks to its proactive attitude and breadth of product range, Sybron is working with us to reach our aim – to move to all eco-cleaning and hygiene solutions by the end of 2023.”

Forward together

“We see this partnership as a joint venture. Long term, we would like to consolidate more and create more fluidity with Sybron that will allow us to grow. Their seamless service gives us the platform to achieve this. All our teams have total confidence in Sybron.

“For me, it is something I don’t even think about anymore,” concludes David. “As a Purchasing Manager, Sybron is at the back of my mind, which is the best place to be if you are a supplier.”

“Looking ahead, maintaining a top-class service gets harder as you grow, so more efficiencies are required,” adds Brad. “Our business has a strict growth strategy to ensure we maintain continuity of supply. We continually aim not just to be a box-mover, but to maintain a seamless service and be a real partner to our customers.”

For more information go to www.sybron.co.uk/sybio/

REVAMPS WHISPER BRAND

Northwood Hygiene Products Ltd – the leading manufacturer and supplier of away-from-home (AfH) professional paper hygiene and wiping products – is rolling out a new brand refresh for its Whisper range of premium toilet tissues and facial tissues.

Since its launch over a decade ago, Whisper has grown to become one of the leading brands in the away-fromhome (AfH) luxury toilet tissue and facial tissue market. Now, the brand and packaging has been overhauled to achieve a more consistent look and feel across the entire range and appeal to the needs of modern customers.

Paul Mulready, marketing manager at Northwood, said: “Whisper has grown into one of the leading brands in the AFH category with many loyal customers across the hospitality industry. After a really successful preview at the Cleaning Show this year, we’re very excited indeed to unveil a bold new look for Whisper.

“The new branding has been designed to be fresh and recognisable to stay in tune with 21st century customers who want a contemporary, ethically produced product that doesn’t compromise at all on quality or softness.”

The new packaging is currently being rolled out across the seven products within the Whisper toilet roll range – Whisper Gold, Whisper Silver, Whisper Eco, Whisper Classic, Whisper Ultra, Whisper Soft and Whisper 320.

All the products within the Whisper range will be manufactured and packaged in the UK. Furthermore,

every product within the range is made from pure pulp, with four products – Whisper Gold, Whisper Silver, Whisper Classic and Whisper Eco – also being FSC® certified.

Continues Paul: “The feedback from customers on the new brand so far has been terrific and we’re sure this range will continue to grow in market share following the revamp. But that’s not all – we will be announcing a very innovative new product launch very soon too. This is a major step forward for us in our ambition to make our products and packaging more environmentally conscious than ever before and we’re very proud to be at the forefront of development. Watch this space!”

In addition to the imminent new product launch, Northwood will also unveil a new range of Whisper facial tissues later this year. The tissues will be manufactured at Northwood’s Grantham site, which is Northwood Group’s Centre of Excellence for the production of facial tissue.

For further information on the Whisper range, please visit www.northwood.co.uk, or call 01952 236 930

THE LATEST EPISODE IN THE HOTEL HYPNOS SERIES: Escape to the country to

discover a stay like no other at UK’s first deconstructed hotel

Set in 70 acres of idyllic greenery and designed to improve guests’ wellbeing, The Tawny offers “a stay like no other” as the UK’s first deconstructed hotel, taking the best bits from a traditional luxury hotel experience and combining them with naturistic design and complete privacy to offer a stunning country escape.

The latest episode in the Hotel Hypnos series, which has been brought to life by luxury bed and mattress pioneers, Hypnos Contract Beds, provides insight into the range of bespoke elements that form part of a unique and relaxing stay at The Tawny.

The video features an in-depth conversation between Editor of Design Insider, Alys Bryan, and The Tawny General Manager, Josh Chadwick, and focuses on the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and guest wellbeing. This is highlighted in the hotel’s luxury offering, with each distinctively designed room featuring beautiful décor that complements the surroundings, a Hypnos premium mattress, in addition to luxurious touches that intertwine with the environment.

Josh says: “Physical and mental wellbeing come first at The Tawny and that starts with a good night’s sleep. We pay close attention to the interior details in every room, including everything from the lighting and linen to pillow preferences, as well as a good quality mattress, to create the perfect sleeping environment.”

As the world’s first carbon neutral bed creators, Hypnos is proud to share the same values as The Tawny.

Carolyn Mitchell, Sales and Marketing Director at Hypnos Contract Beds, adds: “Our philosophy focuses on sustainable design and the delivery of a restful sleep. We are delighted to be supporting The Tawny in its ongoing efforts to optimise its guests’ experience and be progressive in the future of sleep tourism.

“Like The Tawny, sustainability is completely embedded within our business. Each of our products are ethically made using responsibly sourced natural materials and are tailored to offer the perfect balance of comfort and performance.

“For us, it’s important to work with those who share our commitment to making a positive environmental impact and we’ve been truly inspired to see how The Tawny has created a bespoke experience that not only protects, but promotes, nature.”

Hotel Hypnos is an ongoing series of discussions pioneered by Hypnos Contract Beds, where influential and respected hospitality leaders share their knowledge, expertise, and advice via filmed interviews.

Watch the video here

DELPHIS ECO’S HEROES CAMPAIGN GOES LARGE

The very first Delphis Hero launching the campaign into retail is Michelle Thomas, New Openings Manager at room2, the leading hometel brand, and part of Lamington Group.

Not only will Delphis Hero stories go on the front of each retail product, but the company is taking it to the next level with a captivating and massive 48-sheet tube advert at Holborn Central Line, accompanied by an advert at Welwyn Garden City.

The stunning eye-catching displays will take the spotlight for a two-week period, starting Monday, 17th July 2023.

Delphis Eco has been a respected partner of cleaning products to the commercial and hospitality markets for the last 15 years. The shift into the retail market was instigated by a continuous push by commercial customers to offer a range they could offer at home. The labels on its retail packaging already have quotes from commercial partners.

And now - two years after its launch in Waitrose, Delphis Eco’s CEO and Founder, Mark Jankovich, explains the Heroes Campaign.

“We are super-proud to be launching our Heroes Campaign which is going mainstream – this is the first time we have gone into underground billboard advertising.

“With such symbiosis between Delphis’ B2B and B2C ranges, the Hero Campaign is designed to champion Delphis’ commercial partners, the real heroes behind Delphis Eco.

“Indeed, it’s their hard work, commitment to sustainability and trust in Delphis’ products that places them as leaders in sustainability. The campaign also draws attention to the importance of using sustainable, non-toxic cleaning products and highlights how using eco-friendly cleaning products is a simple, yet effective solution people can adopt to become more sustainable.

“As the inaugural ‘Hero’, Michelle demonstrates exceptional dedication and leadership in championing eco-conscious practices within the hospitality sector.

“Her visionary approach aligns perfectly with Delphis Eco’s mission to promote sustainable cleaning solutions and sets a remarkable example as an advocate for sustainable living in the hospitality industry.

“room2 seamlessly blends the comfort of a home with the convenience of a hotel, while also working tirelessly towards achieving full Net Zero status”.

Michelle commented:

“Sustainability has become much more of a focus for me personally, and for the business. It’s really important to have an eco-friendly cleaning product to make sure the facilities that we provide for our guests are safe. We want to make sure our team members are using products that are safe to use – a product that is good for people and the planet and gets the job done.

“My favourite product is the Multi-Purpose Cleaner – I can do everything with it. I can spray a badly stained shower, go back in a few minutes, wipe it and it’s perfect first time. It’s a great product.”

Commenting on the campaign, Mark Jankovich concludes:

“Working with industry professionals, such as Michelle, who have first-hand experience of using our products can reassure retail customers of our credibility who are naturally sceptical about the effectiveness of eco-friendly cleaning products and most likely, their green credentials too.

“If our professional partners love our products and trust our environmental accreditations, we are confident these products can be just as effective and loved in people’s homes.

“Michelle embodies the spirit of sustainability, leading the charge towards a greener future.

“We are looking forward to launching the Hero Campaign, continuing to work with our fantastic business partners and achieving our ambitious targets to rapidly grow our presence in the retail space”.

Delphis Eco products are available at Waitrose, Ocado, and Amazon.

For more information, please visit: www.mevalco.com

The UK’s leading eco-friendly cleaning products company which supplies innovative products to the commercial, foodservice and retail markets, has launched its new Delphis Heroes Campaign to encourage businesses and consumers to change their buying behaviours to more sustainable options.

A Guide to Sponsor Licences

Post-Brexit, the number of sponsored skilled workers entering the UK economy has increased exponentially. Many businesses have found themselves considering applying to the Home Office for a sponsor licence; here we take a look at the requirements of the skilled worker sponsorship system.

Key Requirements

Although the online application form is relatively straightforward, significant supporting information and documentation is required, so preparation is essential when applying for a sponsor licence. You should consider the following:

What is your business case for obtaining a licence?

You may have a member of staff already on the books in a different visa category - e.g. a student or graduate - so you must explain why you wish to retain their services as a sponsored worker. You may have identified talent overseas, or you may be applying speculatively for a licence to manage future recruitment. All scenarios are acceptable, but a different approach to supporting evidence is required in each instance.

Are you prepared to take on the responsibility of a sponsor licence?

Sponsor licensing means the Home Office devolving immigration compliance on businesses. You must acknowledge this responsibility, and the duties placed upon you as an employer, before applying for a sponsor licence. Are your HR systems sufficiently robust to withstand a Home Office inspection? We recommend demonstrating knowledge of your reporting duties, and of right to work checking processes, in the context of your licence application.

Who are your key personnel?

You require an Authorising Officer, Key Contact and Level 1/2 Users on your licence. The Authorising Officer manages the sponsor licence and ensures the business is compliant with its duties. A Key Contact is your main point of contact for the Home Office. A Level 1 or 2 User carries out required day-to-day activities on the sponsor licence system. These people must be UK-based, and either British citizens or long-term residents.

Do you require management assistance?

Does your HR team want to manage access to the sponsor management system (SMS) internally, or appoint external counsel or solicitors as legal representatives and Level 1 Users to run things going forward?

Making an Application for a Sponsor Licence

The online application must be submitted by the employer. Once complete and all relevant fees paid, a submission sheet will be generated that must be signed by the nominated Authorising Officer.

Specified supporting evidence and the signed submission sheet must then be provided to the Home Office by email within five working days. Typically, a decision is provided by the Home Office in eight weeks; expedited processing is available subject to a daily ballot, and can be difficult to secure; this costs an additional £500 on top of the standard £536 (small/medium business) or £1,436 (large business) fee.

JANGRO ENHANCES DIGITAL WALL CHART TOOL

Jangro, the UK & Ireland’s largest network of independent janitorial and cleaning distributors, has recently updated its award-winning digital wall chart creator with a fresh new look, as well as enhancing its functionality.

Featuring a sleek new header design, the site is not only more visually appealing but also provides a more userfriendly experience for customers. The clean and modern header makes it easier for users to navigate and find the chart they need.

The first of its kind in the industry, this innovative online tool enables customers to create bespoke colour-coded cleaning and hygiene charts for individual rooms or multiple spaces. Following the latest update, both the single and multi-room sections now include areas for the whole building, including bedrooms, washrooms, boardrooms, receptions, classrooms, offices, gymnasiums, hospitality, kitchens, and canteens/staff rooms.

Easy to use, customers simply select areas of a room and are presented with a list of suitable cleaning solutions, that include product recommendations, to choose from. After making their selections, the online tool creates a bespoke colour coded chart, which is emailed to the customer, along with a health and safety compliance pack that can be downloaded, printed, or shared with colleagues.

Each pack comprises of a wall chart, product safety data sheets, product user guides, and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) risk assessments for all the products that are featured on their chart.

Jo Gilliard, CEO of Jangro, comments, ‘Our innovative digital wall chart creator tool is one of a kind. Quick and simple to use, it now enables clients to build bespoke cleaning and hygiene guides for whole buildings effortlessly. It offers support by aiding correct product selection, acting as a handy reference chart, and helping customers to keep up with regulations.

‘The way it streamlines all of the health and safety documentation, so that customers can find whatever they need in one place, enables them to maintain compliance – and takes the stress out of health and safety audits’.

For more information go to wallchartcreator.jangro.net or call 01204 795 955.

Desi Daru Wins World’s Best Flavoured Vodka Title

Launched just seven months ago, Indian-inspired and British-made ultra-premium vodka, Desi Daru has already been named World’s Best Flavoured Vodka in the prestigious, World Vodka Awards.

The vodka brand is owned by Britishborn Indians, who celebrate the best of the two countries they call home through the flavour-led spirits, using the highest quality ingredients from the Himalayan mountains to the jungles of Maharashtra and the lush English countryside.

Desi Daru’s Alphonso Mango-flavoured vodka has been making waves in the drinks world since its launch last July. And it impressed the global panel of judges so much, it claimed the top spot in the UK Flavoured Vodka category and then competed against the best from each country to win the coveted title of World’s Best Flavoured Vodka.

Desi Daru co-founder, Mohit Singh says: “It is the perfect marriage of East and West and we are thrilled the judges agree and have honoured us with such a prestigious accolade.

“The World’s Best title reflects the quality of the finest alphonso mangoes, prized for their sweetness that we sourced from India’s Ratnagiri, which are distilled rather than infused for a fuller, smooth flavour. All of our vodkas are distilled seven times from creamy, English winter wheat, grown in Oxfordshire.”

Commending excellence in the vodka industry, the awards (part of the World Drink Awards) judges spirits in four categories: Pure Neutral, Infused and Botanical, Varietal and Flavoured.

The Alphonso Mango Spirit is Crowned Global Leader at World Vodka Awards

This is the second award for the mango vodka, which has won a Spirits Business Global Vodka Masters Award and been scored 96 points by the International Drinks Specialists.

The spirit is distilled seven times to make a vodka that is smooth enough to sip as well as providing the perfect foundation for bold and memorable cocktails, which can be enjoyed at some of the UK’s top bars and restaurants, from Mayfair’s Michelin-star Benares and Fitzrovia’s Pahli Hill to the glitzy Farzi and Holborn’s luxury Colonel Saab.

The brand also produces the Desi Daru Original, distilled using English winter wheat and the purest water from the snow-capped Himalayas. This has won a Spirits Business Global Vodka Masters Gold Award and been scored 90 points by the International Drinks Specialists.

This year, the brand has ambitious expansion plans, with the recent addition of drinks industry pioneer, Ben Reed as consultant for brand strategy and activation, a new design team and PR agency Cult Media Collective to its team and plans to launch a fully bespoke bottle design this year.