Two-thirds of Brits would boycott brands that ‘lack ethical conscience’: Two-thirds (67%) of UK consumers would boycott brands that lack an ethical conscience, according to research by Fourth, the software partner to the hospitality industry. The survey, which questioned more than 1,500 consumers, revealed 90% believe they are “ethical consumers”, with their motivation driven by media coverage of marine pollution (53%) and the 5p carrier bag charge (47%). Fourth said the rise of ethical consumerism was having an impact on the wider industry, with more than a quarter of all UK evening meals eaten at home now vegan or vegetarian. Regarding the hospitality industry’s efforts to ban plastic straws, 90% viewed it as a positive move. A further four-fifths (80%) of respondents said they wanted to reduce waste, with Fourth highlighting a great opportunity for brands to increase efficiency and drive customer advocacy by reducing food waste across their estate. Fourth chief operating officer Simon Bocca said: “We are seeing the rise of the ethical consumer with people becoming increasingly concerned about what they eat and drink, where it comes from, how it was made and what impact it has on the environment. This presents big risks for unethical businesses – as consumers are clearly willing to boycott brands – but also big rewards for operators with conscientious policies and procedures. Cutting food waste is just one way in which operators can not only make their business ‘greener’ but also mitigate well-documented cost inflation across the industry. By doing so, they are safeguarding their reputation, saving money through increased efficiency, driving customer advocacy and, most importantly, doing their bit for the future of the planet.”
Turkish brand Bunco secures debut site: Property agent Shelley Sandzer has secured a debut London location for bao concept BunCo, in the City of London. The new outlet is due to open later this year. The brand will take a 1,000 square foot unit spread across ground floor and mezzanine levels. Originating in Istanbul the new site, located at 22 Monument Street, will be the brand’s first in the UK. BunCo’s primary offer will be steamed Asian buns known as “bao” made with natural ingredients and combined with non-traditional fillings such as falafel, fried chicken and tuna. Baran Dumanoglu, managing partner at BunCo, said: “BunCo was founded with the intention of bringing a unique interpretation to bao buns. People are bored of eating the same things so, using quality and tasty ingredients, we have revolutionised the street food culture in Istanbul and can’t wait to share this with our new customers in London. Opening our second outlet in a new country is a big step but Shelley Sandzer have been brilliant advisors throughout this process and secured the perfect City of London location.”
