Skip to main content
Hit enter to search or ESC to close

Narrow down your searches to:

  • All
  • Food is Living
  • Industry
  • Farmers & Growers
Top Picks
Bord Bia

Casual Dining Sector

 

Bewley’s on Grafton Street to close permanently with loss of 110 jobs

The Irish Times - 06.05.2020

The historic Bewley’s cafe on Grafton Street is to close permanently with the loss of 110 jobs. Staff were informed of the decision by the operator of the cafe, Bewley’s Ltd, which is owned by artist Paddy Campbell. The closure has been blamed on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the economy, which has been in lockdown since March, and the €1.5 million annual rental cost on the protected structure. In a note to staff, the cafe’s Managing Director Cól Campbell, a son of Paddy Campbell, outlined the impact of the lockdown on the business and highlighted the added costs of social distancing measures, once cafes and restaurants are allowed to reopen on June 29th. He also cited its €1.5 million annual rent as a reason behind the decision, saying that a request for a rent reduction had not been granted.

 

Former McDonald's Ireland MD joins Leon Ireland board

Hospitality Ireland - 07.05.2020

Healthy fast food chain Leon has announced the appointment of former McDonald's Ireland managing director Adrian Crean as a non-executive director of Leon Ireland. Crean served as managing director of McDonald's Ireland from 2011 to 2017. Leon Ireland managing director Stuart Fitzgerald stated, "We are delighted to further strengthen our board with Adrian's appointment. His expertise and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the post-COVID-19 economy. Adding someone of Adrian's calibre reinforces our optimistic view of the prospects for Leon in Ireland and our belief that there is a sizable market opportunity." Fitzgerald added, "While our focus right now is on health and safety, we firmly believe that Leon is well-positioned to respond to post-COVID-19 consumer demand, given the affordable and fresh nature of our offering. We're dedicated to fulfilling our roll-out plan and contributing positively to the Irish economy and jobs market again post-COVID. To date, the state's COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme has been invaluable in helping us look after our people.