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UK Leads Europe with Standout Success at European Franchise Awards!

British Franchise brands swept the board at the European Franchise Awards in Belgium last week and the UK had standout success, being the only country to have finalists in all categories at the awards, with each one receiving a podium finish on the night.

At the awards, countries submit applications from the winners of their own domestic award competitions, and after the first European Franchise Awards took place in 2022, this year has attracted a sell out crowd for the ceremony, where entrants were nominated by 18 national franchise associations who are members of the European Franchise Federation (EFF).

EFF Chair, Mathias Lehner, said: “The European Franchise Awards are a unique opportunity to bring the franchise community together, to celebrate the best in class in franchising. It is a privilege for us to meet with and celebrate some of the best concepts and individuals in our sector.”

The full list of winners was:

Franchisor of the Year

  • Gold – Right at Home (UK)
  • Silver – Hizi Hair
  • Bronze – Isotec
  • Excellence Award – Guy Hoquet

Franchisee of the Year

  • Gold – Sari Körkkö
  • Silver – Alessio Piccardi
  • Bronze – Jon Radford (Football Fun Factory) (UK)
  • Bronze – Karen Pollet

International Brand of the Year

  • Gold – Mercure
  • Silver – ERA Group (UK)
  • Bronze – Fortidia

Emerging Franchise Brand

  • Gold – X’pert Impact
  • Silver – Zorgmaatje aan Huis
  • Bronze – Canopy Nurseries (UK)

Emerging Franchisee

  • Eugen Johannes

Emerging International Brand

  • Tinker Labs

Services to Franchising

  • Gold – Stevens & Bolton (UK)
  • Silver – MCR Retailminds
  • Bronze – Mobilosoft

European Hall of Fame

  • Manfred Maus

The latest British Franchise Association (BFA) survey showed that the UK has over 1,000 franchise systems with more than 50,000 franchise units, and contributes £19.1 billion to the UK economy. It also showed that it’s ‘forced commercial failure rate’ has been less than 6% for over 20 years.

Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA who travelled to Brussels for the awards said: “What a proud, proud night for British franchising. We send our hugest congratulations to Right at Home, Stevens & Bolton, Canopy Nurseries, ERA Group and to Jon Radford from Football Fun Factory on their magnificent triumphs. They have all worked extraordinarily hard to get here and deserve every bit of the applause they received from their European colleagues on the night, displaying, as they have, the very best of British franchising.”

She continued: “However, I don’t just see this as a win for the five individual brands; as an unregulated franchising sector, we have proven tonight that we do not need laws to be successful. The UK is widely respected abroad, and I believe our success proves that our franchisors don’t need tick boxes to ensure they are doing the right thing; they choose to do the right thing anyway, through their commitment to their BFA membership and our Code of Ethical Conduct.”

Some of the best-known brands in franchising such as Mercure, Midas, Fortidia and Carrefour are taking part in 2025, along with some entirely new names in the Emerging Brand category.

With the European Franchise Federation having members in Germany, Finland, Spain, UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Croatia, Hungary, Sweden, Norway, Slovakia, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Greece, Serbia, and North Macedonia, these awards can showcase franchised businesses across the continent who deserve to be recognised.

The results of The Official BBC Asian Network Charts have been released

The results of the Official Asian Network Chart have been released, marking an important moment for British Asian listeners and the South Asian music scene.

This vote marked 15 years of The Official Music Chart on BBC Asian Network and was the first ever Asian Music Chart to be compiled by The Official Charts Company.

During a special countdown show hosted by Asian Network’s Nikita Kanda and Haroon Rashid on BBC Asian Network, ‘Tum Hi Ho’ was announced as the winning song – by Mithoon & Arijit Singh.

Arijit Singh, the 38-year-old who sings the winning track, headlined London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend for his only European show of 2025, making him the first Indian artist to ever headline a UK stadium. After recently appearing with Ed Sheeran on the single Sapphire, Arijit has become far more popular in the Asian music scene, with the BBC reporting that one fan at the London show said: “His songs are so amazing and touching. He’s like the Ed Sheeran of India.”

Since the Asian Music Chart launched, it has mainstreamed tracks from British Asian talent like Naughty Boy and Joy Crookes, Bollywood bangers from Arijit Singh and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Punjabi power anthems from Diljit Dosanjh and AP Dhillon featured, amongst other tracks and artists.

CEO of The Official Charts Company, Martin Talbot, says “The British music scene has always been a brilliantly rich melting pot of influences from right across the globe and BBC Asian Network has always played an enormous part in that through its passionate promotion of south Asian music. We at the Official Charts have always been immensely proud of our role in celebrating this heritage and platforming of talent through the Official Asian Music Chart, so we are delighted to be collaborating with the Asian Network on this national poll of listeners’ favourite Number 1s to mark the chart’s 15th year.”

The full results of the chart were as follows:

  1. Tum Hi Ho – Mithoon & Arijit Singh (Aashiqui 2, 2013)
  2. One Pound Fish – £1 Fish Man (2012)
  3. Satisfya – Imran Khan (2013)
  4. Kala Chashma – Amar Arshi, Badshah & Neha Kakkar (Baar Baar Dekho, 2016)
  5. Naina – Diljit Dosanjh, Badshah & Raj Ranjodh (Crew, 2024)

Runner up, One Pound Fish Man, took to social media after hearing the results, saying to his fans: “Thank you so much to Asian Network Listeners for voting for my track. I am so happy to see that you all love this track, even today. It means so much to me. Thank you, thank you very, very much!”

The countdown is available to listen to now on BBC Sounds where viewers can also access interviews with some of the artists who have helped to shape the Asian music scene, alongside hearing some of the biggest number 1s the chart has seen over the past 15 years.

Ahmed Hussain, Head of Asian Network, says “For 15 years, The Official Asian Music Chart on Asian Network has championed the incredible talent and diversity of the British Asian and South Asian music scene, reflecting the evolving sounds of our communities from breakthrough artists to global icons. To celebrate this milestone, we’re inviting listeners to select their favourite track and join us in celebrating some of the fantastic music that has defined the past decade and a half.”

Steins Up! Soho’s Albert’s Schloss announces three-week Oktoberfest takeover

For those of you who can’t make it to Deutschland, don’t panic. Albert’s Schloss have got the Steins at the ready for the return of their infamous Oktoberfest.

With three weeks of Bavarian brews, delicious new dishes, and non-stop live entertainment that will have guest dancing on the tables – in true Bavarian style – the Soho bier palace are offering it all!

Running from 20th September to 12th October, Albert’s Schloss Oktoberfest is open to all, no ticket required. Playing host to traditional keg tapping, live oompah and brass bands, and ‘the best lederhosen’ competition, they are sure to prove their Bayern credentials.

There is a different showtime entertainment theme planned each day – with favourites including the Baby Grand Slam, two dueling pianos, and a full band playing requests. This is also a Disko Wunderbar night which is expected to be largely popular, where 70s classics will be given an Oktoberfest brass band twist.

There will also be classic Oktoberfest games and wurst-eating contests… because what’s a beer festival without a bit of friendly competition? Not only this, but guests will be welcomed to stein holding, pretzel tossing, guess the sausage and Bavarian hat throwing.

Albert’s Schloss is one of the only venues in the world that offers six festival beers under one roof – the only beers served at the official Munich Oktoberfest – and are therefore serving the most authentic taste of Oktoberfest that you can get.

Paprika-roasted half chicken, 12-hr brined crispy Schweinshaxe pork knuckle, a Sausage Festival dish of authentic wursts, and the award-winning Baron burger will all be served up in the Cook Haus restaurant and there will also be a selection of authentic Alpine cocktails available – if beer isn’t your thing. Choices include: Oktoberfest Spritz, A Blood Orange and Ginger Spritz or a Munchen Long Island, all mixed with Monkey 47.

100 free beers will be given to the first festival guests on Saturday 20th September, as soon as doors open at noon, and after selling over 3,000 litres of beer across the festival in London last year, Albert’s Schloss are sure to stack the kegs even higher this year.

To find out more about what is on offer, check out their website now – Prost!

Ready to experience Tower Bridge like never before? Behind-the-Scene Tours are coming

Ready to experience London’s defining landmark, Tower Bridge, like never before?

Visitors now have the opportunity to attend exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Tours at the venue for a limited time. And better yet, this year has seen the inclusion of in-person British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted tour options.

Chris Earlie, director of Tower Bridge, said: “These tours are an incredible opportunity to see the Bridge from the inside out; from the thrilling machinery that powers it, to the stories of the people behind its construction. Making this unique experience accessible isn’t easy due to the operational nature of the working Bridge but with the introduction of BSL interpretation, we hope to provide a more inclusive offer. Continuing to increase accessibility to such a historic icon reflects our commitment to removing barriers and creating unforgettable experiences for all our visitors.”

This experience is perfect for those who want the rare chance to go beyond the standard ‘tourist experience’. Having expert-led tours allows guests to travel beyond classic routes, and instead delve into the Bridge’s inner workings which is usually closed to the public.

Visitors will have the opportunity to see the cavernous Bascule Chambers beneath the Thames – which allow for the movement of the huge counterweights used during Bridge Lifts.

Tickets for these tours which will take place between November and March are on sale this month – but move quickly – as they are sure to sell out fast due to high demand.

And especially this year with them being the most inclusive to date, featuring BSL-interpretation on selected dates. This addition has been implemented to enhance the attraction’s accessibility, and will be delivered via Smartify.

Martin Fox-Roberts, BSL interpreter, added: “Tower Bridge is such a powerful symbol, not just of history and engineering but of London itself. Collaborating with the team and further opening that experience up to Deaf people is incredibly meaningful. So many Deaf visitors miss out on the richness of historic places because information isn’t presented in a way they can fully engage with. Tower Bridge continues to develop its offer and with this latest BSL-interpreted tour continues to set a benchmark for other attractions to follow suit.”

There will also be the introduction of ‘Quieter Time’ which will offer more times to experience the Bridge in a calmer environment. These sessions will build on the Bridge’s existing Relaxed Openings, designed for visitors who feel more comfortable in a less stimulating environment – such as those with neurodivergent people, those living with dementia or sight impairment and their companions.

These are in addition to the option to experience a Guided Tour with BSL, led by an expert guide and an accredited British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter, and Deaf-led Guided Tours with John Wilson, an experienced Deaf guide – both available on selected dates.

Tickets for these Behind-the-Scenes Tours cost £80 per adult and £72.50 per child, with disabled adult tickets available at £75 per person. The November and December tour tickets go on sale this month, with January to March tour tickets released later this year. BSL-interpreted Behind-the-Scenes Tours will take place January-March, dates to be confirmed.

Tower Bridge delivers memorable experiences for all to enjoy: from walking on the Glass Floors suspended 42 metres above the Thames and stunning skyline views from the High-level Walkways to stepping back in time in the atmospheric Victorian Engine Rooms.

Emma Keenan Wins Life-Changing 130th Anniversary Scholarship at Le Cordon Bleu London

The winner of the life-changing Le Cordon Bleu London Scholarship Competition 2025 was announced on Monday at the Bloomsbury Institute.

Emma Keenan from Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, has been named the winner of the competition which marked the 130th anniversary of the Le Cordon Bleu.

Hitting such a major milestone, this event featured its largest prize package to date – worth over £90,000 – and saw 16 talented, aspiring chefs showcase their skills in a live culinary challenge final, to take the top spot.

Emma Keenan, aged 27, impressed the esteemed judging panel – including Emily Roux (Caractère), Chris Galvin (Galvin Restaurants), Nicolas Houchet (The Savoy), and winner of the 2024 Scholarship, Caoimhe O’Neill-McGuinness – with a Savoury Choux Ring with Mushrooms, Mascarpone and Hazelnut and Parmesan Craquelin.

Throughout, Emma showed determination and intuition in the kitchen, and her genuine passion for the culinary arts that came across in her interview, which all combined to see her officially crowned winner at the awards ceremony and dinner hosted at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu that very same day.

Emma commented: “I don’t think I’ve ever felt so proud of myself in my life. I feel incredibly grateful because every finalist is a deserving winner. They’re all such talented and passionate people. I feel incredibly excited about the journey that’s in front of me and I can’t wait to get started. I have no doubt it’s going to be challenging and intense, but in the best way. Anyone who is considering applying for the next Scholarship you absolutely need to believe and just take that shot. It comes with this sense of vulnerability, but it’s the best thing to put yourself out there for something that you genuinely care about because everything can change, so 100% apply. If you are in any way passionate about food, you absolutely have to do it.”

Emma has received a full scholarship to pursue Le Cordon Bleu’s renowned Grand Diplôme®, which combines both cuisine and pâtisserie training. The prize package is worth over £90,000, and also includes a three-month internship at CORD, 12 months’ accommodation in London courtesy of Londonist DMC, mentorship from Michel Roux Jr. and Chris Galvin, and an overnight stay at The Savoy.

This year, two runners up were also recognised for the first time. They will receive a 2-week internship at CORD and special prizes from The Savoy and Phaidon:

  • Second place: Melissa Kuo from London, awarded a place a on either the Basic Cuisine or Basic Patisserie 3-month programme.
  • Third place: Ruby Goodens from Hull, awarded a place on Le Cordon Bleu’s Summer Essentials Course.

All contestants will receive a year’s membership to CKBK and a custom chefs jacket courtesy of Clement Design.

Culinary Arts Director at Le Cordon Bleu London, Emil Minev, commented: “This year’s 130th Anniversary Scholarship has been one of our most exciting and competitive to date. The level of creativity and dedication from all the finalists was exceptional, and Emma distinguished herself with outstanding technique and passion. We are honoured to support their culinary journey.”

Le Cordon Bleu is the leading global network of culinary arts and hospitality management institutes, with over 35 schools in more than 20 countries, and although traditional French culinary techniques remain at the heart of Le Cordon Bleu, the academic programmes are constantly adapted to include new, innovative technologies to meet the needs of the hospitality industry.

Their annual competition continues to act as a launchpad for culinary careers, which allows people regardless of age, location or background the chance to follow their dreams and aspirations. This gives individuals the opportunity to learn from Master Chefs from Le Cordon Bleu London and also intern under the kitchen team at CORD.

The Black British Business Awards 2025 final is happening this October and is a powerful agent for change

The finalists for the Black British Business Awards 2025 (BBBAwards) have been announced, recognising exceptional performance of Black professionals and entrepreneurs.

Thirty-six business leaders, innovators, creatives and trailblazers from some of the most prestigious brands and exciting UK businesses will attend the premier UK awards ceremony this October, at the InterContinental London, Park Lane.

The BBBAwards is the only premium awards programme of its kind in the UK, after being established in 2014, and has been endorsed by four Prime Ministers, the Mayor of London and global business leaders for it’s impact and powerful showcase.

This is the 12th year of the BBBAwards which will see finalists from companies including JPMorganChase, Goldman Sachs, Sephora, Dentsu Creative, LinkedIn and Kantar, be joined by senior figures in British business, prominent opinion leaders and influencers representing all sectors and regions of the British economy. The awards will also once again welcome Wells Fargo as the Finalist Announcement Sponsor, for the sixth year running.

Over the years, more than 400 Black professionals and entrepreneurs have been recognised for their contributions to business in addition to employers and allies that continue to address Black racial equity gaps.

BBBAwards Chair and Executive Founder, Dr Sophie Chandauka MBE, spoke out when the 2025 finalists were revealed: “I am proud to celebrate this year’s BBBAwards finalists – worldclass professionals and entrepreneurs whose achievements inspire us all and raise aspirations across society. We applaud companies that are backing Black talent and taking meaningful action to ensure transparent and equitable distribution of capital, access to opportunity and top jobs. In the war-on-talent, risk-based problem solving is not a zero-sum game. This means addressing material gaps and issues impacting different populations whilst celebrating a job well done as progress is made. We can drive progress towards a fairer, more equal society and a truly inclusive British economy where investment and effort are allocated strategically to solve problems that, once addressed, can contribute a more stable future for our children and greater prosperity for all. We are stronger when we are brave enough to acknowledge and solve problems together.”

JPMorganChase is also a returning Key Partner of the BBBAwards for the sixth year, continuing their support of this event that recognises Black excellence and entrepreneurship. The Financial Times hosted the exciting BBBAwards nominations reception, Oliver Wyman hosted the highly competitive judging day and Wells Fargo hosted the highly anticipated finalist announcement reception.

Further significant corporate BBBAwards sponsors this year are AlixPartners, Baker McKenzie, Barclays, Bloomberg, The Financial Times, Goldman Sachs, L’Oréal, Macquarie Group, Morgan Stanley, S&P Global, Ralph Lauren, Wellington Management and Worldpay.

Sponsors’ support is invaluable to ensuring that equitable investment and opportunity for Black talent remains on the corporate agenda by celebrating the often-unsung commercial contributions of Black professionals and entrepreneurs who deserve a platform to shine.

The 2025 BBBAwards honours exceptional performance and outstanding achievements by Black professionals and entrepreneurs across six industry categories. This year’s category finalists are:

Arts and Media Rising Star

  • Marissa McKinnon, Venue and Operations Manager, Theatre Peckham
  • Tayo Ologbenla, Head of Digital Marketing and Engagement, Savills
  • Joelle Owusu-Sekyere, Editorial Director, Penguin Random House

Arts and Media Senior Leader

  • Aston Brooks-Ashitey, Senior Brand Social Marketing Manager, LinkedIn
  • Ete Davies, EMEA EVP, Dentsu Creative
  • Jamie Wallace, Founder and Creative Director, Origin

Consumer and Luxury Rising Star

  • Janet Davies, CEO, Ominira Naturals
  • Jane Msumba, Pharmacist Health Coach, Inner Glow Clinic
  • Nathaniel Wade, Co-Founder, Wakuda

Consumer and Luxury Senior Leader

  • Belinda Brown, CFO, Sephora UK
  • Alison Burton, Co-Founder, March Muses
  • Jamie-Lee Abtar, Head of Marketing, Not In The Guidebook

Entrepreneur Rising Star

  • Rukayat Alabi, CEO, RKY Careers
  • Lucky Nwosu, Founder and CEO, Sercasa
  • Nnaemeka Obodoekwe, CTO, Lenkie Technologies Ltd

Entrepreneur Senior Leader

  • Jones Amegbor, Founder and CEO, PayInc Group Ltd t/a PayAngel
  • Joey Antwi-Kusi, Franchisee, Beaconstead Ltd t/a McDonald’s
  • Rose Hulse, Founder and CEO, ScreenHits TV

Financial Services Rising Star 

  • Ayo Gabriel, Vice President, J.P. Morgan Private Bank
  • Ahanna Anaba, Head of Sales and Partnership, Finverity
  • Seun Toye-Kayode, Executive Director, Goldman Sachs

Financial Services Senior Leader

  • Daouii Abouchere, Director Sustainable Investments EMEA, Wellington Management
  • Gabriel Bolu, Senior Director, Data Commercialisation, Worldpay
  • Shauna Roper, Chief of Staff, Global Procurement, HSBC

Professional Services Rising Star

  • Mavis Amonoo-Acquah, Barrister, Harcourt Chambers
  • Sarah Flambard, Lawyer, Macquarie Group
  • Lulu Isdory, Technology Consultant, EY

Professional Services Senior Leader

  • Landé Belo, Group Legal Director, Employment Counsel, Kantar
  • Oluchi Ikechi-D’Amico, Partner, EY Parthenon
  • Yvonne Kunihira-Davidson, Managing Director, EMEA Head, Tax Solutions, S&P Global Market Intelligence

STEM Rising Star 

  • Kevin Ampeh, Director and Head of Global Perspectives, IQVIA
  • Jennifer Dominic, Head of Marketing (Brand Lead and Team Lead) UK Oncology, MSD UK
  • Daniel Ukasoanya, Global Supply Planner, Bloomberg

STEM Senior Leader

  • Heather Brown, Growth and Experience Design Director, Sage
  • Serufusa Sekidde, Chief of Staff to the CEO, ViiV Healthcare – GSK
  • Tara Gbolade, Director, Gbolade Design Studio

The final is taking place on Friday 17th October at the InterContinental London, Park Lane, and promises a night of celebration, recognition, inclusivity and inspiration.

To learn more, click here.

Hark agency are driving the need for businesses to engage more with middle years in school for career progression

With thousands of young people returning to classrooms this September, new research highlights overlooked areas within education that need critical improvements.

Hark’s Listen Up Report 2025 has revealed that almost a third of Year 9 students (30%) have already changed their mind about what job they want since starting secondary school, and over half say they know little to nothing about the next stage.

Only a staggering 10% of students feel fully in control of what comes next.

With students now settling back into school, it’s clear that in losing confidence, narrowing their aspirations, and having little understanding of next steps, Years 8 and 9 students need investment from brands and employers now, to make a real difference.

If students at this age lack clarity and confidence in future possibilities, it will limit the chance for them to explore their true potential and future possibilities.

We spoke to Hark’s co-founder, Kathryn McColl, to understand her views on why this age group are so often overlooked when it comes to early career engagement and guidance, and the importance there is to invest in them.

“Years 8 and 9 can fall into a gap. Schools and employers alike often concentrate career support at the later stages, around GCSE choices or post-16 decisions. But by then, many students have already narrowed their horizons. Our research shows a sharp dip in confidence at this age – they’re questioning themselves but haven’t yet had much exposure to the world of work. Because they’re often seen as being ‘too young’ for careers input, this crucial stage is often missed, and opportunities to broaden their aspirations early on are lost.”

Hark is a London-based education and youth agency with over 30 years’ experience creating powerful learning experiences and campaigns for schools, communities, and youth audiences, and in working with businesses that want to talk to these young people that they are targeting, they are making a genuine difference committing young people to thrive.

As their data shows a clear urgency to act now in working with Years 8 and 9, surrounding career development, they are now driving the need of business engagement in the younger classrooms with the new school year just starting.

So, how can organisations open these opportunities for students to discover what their passions could lead to, and connect them with real-world examples of turning passions into professions?

Kathryn explains: “One of the most powerful things employers can do is make careers relatable. When young people hear real stories from people in work, particularly those who share their backgrounds or passions, it helps them see how their own interests connect to the future, for example, showing how skills in creativity, problem-solving, or technology translate into real jobs brings those pathways to life. It’s about helping them understand that their passions aren’t just hobbies but can be the foundation of meaningful careers.”

“Engagement doesn’t have to be complex but it does need to be early and consistent. That could mean offering school visits, workplace experiences, or mentoring programmes specifically designed for this age group. The key is exposure: the more students encounter role models, environments, and examples of careers, the more tangible the world of work feels. Our findings show that confidence dips when students don’t feel informed, so practical, interactive opportunities to ask questions and explore are vital to rebuilding that confidence.”

It is true that employers can play a vital role in linking their own work back to the interests and values that drive them, making their career paths more relatable and inspiring for young people.

If we want these students to aim high, and change results surrounding career progression for the better next year, it is essential that they are given tools, role models and control of their future in these middle years.

Kathryn concluded with what success would look like from businesses making a tangible difference in early years: “Success would mean young people in Years 8 and 9 feel informed, supported, and in control of their choices. Instead of reporting that they ‘know little to nothing’ about their next stage – as over half told us in our Listen Up Report – they would feel clearer about the options available, and more confident that their future is something they can actively shape. Ultimately, the goal is to keep ambition alive, so that young people don’t close down opportunities before they’ve had the chance to discover what’s possible.”

To read the full report, click here.

Carbonara Meets Katsu – Bella Italia Launches Bold New Pasta Fusion Dish

If, like me, Italian and Japanese cuisine sum up your absolute favourite meals – Bella Italia now has the perfect dish for you.

Available until the Sunday 12th October, a truly unique and autumnal addition will be included in the brand-new range of Pasta Fusion dishes at Bella Italia restaurants: The Katsu Carbonara.

Think all your classic elements – from spaghetti and classic, creamy, Italian carbonara sauce – but combine it with bold katsu curry flavours and crispy slices of golden breaded chicken.

And… to make this exciting new dish even better, on Wednesday 24th September customers can get their hands on this limited-edition dish for just £1, in celebration of National Katsu Day.

For the entire day, all participating restaurants will offer everyone the chance to experience Bella Italia’s most adventurous pasta yet for just £1 instead of £17.49.

A spokesperson has made comment: “Our guests love us for our Italian classics from creamy Carbonara to oven-baked Lasagne and fresh Margherita Pizza. The new Katsu Carbonara brings something exciting and unexpected to the table, blending the best of Italian comfort food with bold Japanese flavours. As part of our pasta revolution, we’re continuing to make pasta the star of the show, from time-honoured favourites to daring new creations like this one. And with £1 Katsu Day, there’s no better time to give it a try.”

Bella Italia is devoted to the art of pasta, with their 70 nationwide restaurants being recognised for their delicious and authentic Italian food. With items such as rich ragus and fresh seafood pastas, to hand-stretched sourdough pizzas, this is definitely the favourite place to test new, innovative creations – such as the Katsu Carbonara.

This offer is valid for the whole of the 24th September 2025, for dine-in customers only. It cannot be used with any other offer, set menu, voucher or discount code, and unfortunately, locations Center Parcs, London Paddington, Leicester Wigston and Dover, are not included in this deal.

Las Iguanas Heats Up September with FREE Weekly Tapas Giveaway

The leading Mexican and South American cuisine establishment, Las Iguanas, have announced an exclusive app-only perk throughout the whole of September.

With the horrid weather that has now struck the UK, Las Iguanas are hoping to keep the fiesta alive by offering free tapas every week, all month long now.

Until Wednesday 1st October, app-using customers can enjoy a rotating line-up of tapas favourites, worth up to £10.25, completely free with the purchase of any drinks from the Main Drinks Menu.

Guests can look forward to a mix of the most-loved tapas in their local restaurant -from crispy chicken wings and indulgent hot halloumi, to cheesy quesadillas, nachos and golden empanadas.

A new dish will be unlocked every Monday, redeemable until Wednesday of that week, where diners will have lots of opportunities to tuck into a different Latin classic, on the house.

A spokesperson for Las Iguanas said: “September can be a challenging month for customers, so we wanted to create something simple, exciting, and genuinely rewarding. Free tapas every week is a thank-you to our loyal guests and a warm invitation to those who haven’t joined The Iguana Club yet. We’re all about bold flavours, vibrant experiences, and bringing people together, this offer does exactly that.”

So how do you get your hands on this offer?

To qualify for this free grub, all customers need to do is download The Iguana Club, Las Iguanas’ loyalty programme, where the free tapas perk will appear directly in the app each Monday under “Perks,” ready to be redeemed in-restaurant by simply scanning the QR code.

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