ALMR represents 90% of casual dining brands following new membership spike
A boost in membership to the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) means the association now represents more than 90% of all casual dining brands, managed pubs and nightclub and bar operators.
Companies such as PizzaExpress, Leon, Wagamama, Busaba Eathai, Itsu and Wahaca have signed up to the association, which campaigns on behalf of its members, encouraging government to "recognise and act on the economic, social and charitable value they bring to communities nationwide".
Overall, its 220 operating company members now account for more than 26,000 outlets and 650,000 employees.
John Vincent, founder and chief executive at Leon, said: "The industry has been under assault and the government has either caused, or failed to stop, each and every problem the sector has. It adds up to something very dangerous for companies, employees, customers and the exchequer itself. Many restaurants will fail and pay absolutely no tax as a result. We have joined the ALMR in trying to urgently sort out this mess."
ALMR chief executive Kate Nicholls said: "Since the turn of the year we have added 15 member companies that represent a diverse range of operations spanning traditional pubs, bars, casual dining, fast-casual, universities and nightclubs.
"It's clear that the industry recognises the value and crucial importance of campaigning and speaking to government with one voice. We will continue to champion our sector to key stakeholders across government as a crucial growth champion with turnover of £60b, employing over 1.5 million people."
Companies that have signed up are as follows:
• Artist Residence
• Bolton Students' Union
• Bone Daddies
• Busaba Eathai
• Itsu
• Lancaster Students' Union
• Leon
• Mighty Local Pubs
• New World Trading Company
• PizzaExpress
• The Real Eating Company
• Urban Pubs & Bars
• Wagamama
• Wahaca
• Windmill Taverns
ALMR: Don't forget hospitality in Brexit negotiations >>
ALMR urges PHE to avoid imposing "unworkable measures" on obesity >>
Pubs and restaurants ‘not prepared' for business rates changes >>
ALMR poaches former BBPA policy expert David Sheen >>
Videos from The Caterer archives
