Tue 11th Apr 2017 - Wagamama, PizzaExpress, Itsu, Wahaca and Leon join ALMR Wagamama, PizzaExpress, Itsu, Wahaca and Leon join ALMR: The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) has strengthened its position as the leading voice for the out-of-home foodservice market by adding Wagamama, PizzaExpress, Itsu, Wahaca and Leon to its membership. The latest membership additions mean the ALMR now represents well over 90% of all casual dining brands, managed pubs as well as leading nightclubs and bar operators. Its 220 operating company members account for more than 26,000 outlets and 650,000 employees. John Vincent, co-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.” Chris Hill, chief executive of New World Trading Company, which has also joined, said: “The ALMR is an organisation that I have always hugely admired. Despite a diverse membership base, the association is able to make a difference by focusing on the main issues that affect our industry as a whole. They have a strategic, targeted approach and achieve some great results.” Other companies that have signed up include Artist Residence, Bone Daddies, Busaba Eathai, Mighty Local Pubs, Real Eating Company, Urban Pubs & Bars and Windmill Taverns. Commenting on the latest companies to see the benefits of ALMR membership, 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 graphically illustrates our position as the pre-eminent voice for the UK’s eating-out and drinking-out market.” News of the ALMR’s latest members comes on the back of a high-profile and successful campaign on business rates in the run up to this year’s Budget statement. Nicholls added: “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 £60bn, employing more than 1.5 million people.”