Tom Kitchin Group appoints consultancy to 'investigate complaints' and overhauls tips system

The Tom Kitchin Group has appointed an independent, external HR consultancy to "investigate any complaints" and "take appropriate action" following accusations by former staff of assault, harassment and bullying.

Two senior members of staff were suspended in the wake of the allegations, which were also followed by allegations in The Times that Kitchin and his wife Michaela took money out of staff tips.

In an Instagram post, Kitchin said: "Whilst we are proud of the exacting standards we set ourselves, we have never pretended that we are perfect, and where further improvements need to be made, we will address those head-on."

He added: "Historically, credit card tips and service charges have been shared between all front of house and kitchen team members, including those directors who work in the venues alongside their colleagues to create the guest experience. Directors have never participated in any share of cash tips. Going forward, all credit card and cash tips will be shared entirely between the operational front of house teams and kitchen teams."

The Edinburgh-based group includes the Michelin-starred Kitchin restaurant, the Bonnie Badger, the Scran & Scallie and Southside Scran.