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BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW 23RD SEPTEMBER, NEC

BUTTERFLIES EFFECT w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE w SOUTH WALES

SHOW TIME

MEATY MARGINS

GRAPE EXPECTATIONS

Booker Trade Show returns

Four ways to proﬁt from meat

Expanded wine range launched

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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Rohan Kumar Head of Spend Insights, Barclays “Card spending saw further uplift in June, with both essential and non-essential categories recording stronger growth. Record temperatures, stabilising consumer conﬁdence and the start of the World Cup helped drive a broad-based increase in activity, boosting spending on social occasions.”

Dayne Watkins Butterflies Steakhouse, South Wales “Our relationship with Booker is really good. The butchery team looks after us and the store manager regularly eats here too. The branch experience is always good. The staff are friendly, chatty and interested in how the business is doing. If there's a new product, they'll often encourage me to try it. I nearly always come away with things I didn't realise I needed.”

Molly Pinson, Moko Coffee House & Kitchen, Hinckley “I love visiting the Booker branch when I get the chance, I've picked up ideas from the depot. There was a range called Food to Share which inspired small plates ideas. We also discovered brands like Sidoli and started using more of their products. I always say I'd recommend Booker to a new business in a heartbeat. You just can’t really fault it.”

SHARE YOUR NEWS If you've got news, tips or feature ideas, get in touch, Email:catering@booker. co.uk DISCLAIMER All rights reserved. Prices and information are correct at time of going to press, but may be subject to change.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CONTENTS w SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

TRADE SHOW

Booker Trade Show returns The Booker Foodservice Trade Show 2026 returns on 23rd September for another spectacular event that will inspire, educate and help Booker foodservice customers identify profitable opportunities.

Thousands of attendees are expected, and excitement is building as the biggest and best event in the sector draws near. With more than 200 exhibitors, attendees will be able to find out the very latest developments in everything from coffee and wine to butchery and fresh, beer and cider to own-brand and equipment.

News 9 11 13 15

Spend increases in hospitality thanks to busy, warm summer. Government cuts business rates for hospitality by 20%. October set for Autumn/Spring Budget. Full review of business rates announced by Government

56 65 71

Proﬁles 28 40

Butterflies Steakhouse – South Wales steakhouse takes wings. Moko Coffee House & Kitchen – activity-led business a hit with local ladies.

Features 18

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Trade Show – Booker Foodservice Trade Show returns for another unmissable event.

Burgers – creativity and innovation can help you make more with burgers. Meat – four ways to drive up sales and profits with meat. With or Without – cocktail recipes with or without alcohol. Ice Buckets – speed up service and drive spend with ice buckets. Wine – New Booker wine range unveiled.

Service 81 93

Marketplace – access thousands of additional lines. Booker Networks – LGBTQ+ Network in the spotlight.

BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW RETURNS

DON'T MISS...

The Booker Foodservice Trade Show is set to return to the NEC on 23rd September to once again inspire, educate and help Booker foodservice customers.

 Butchery

 Christmas Zone

Demonstration Area  Chef’s Stage

The industry-leading Booker Foodservice Trade Show returns to the NEC in Birmingham on 23rd September, with thousands of attendees expected and more than 200 supplier exhibitors taking part. Moved to Birmingham for the first time last year, feedback from customers made it clear the central location and excellent travel links make the NEC the perfect venue. As well as being extremely easy to reach by public transport, the NEC also has extensive parking for those arriving by car – and Booker will cover all parking costs for foodservice customers who pre-register for the event. The Show is open to all Booker foodservice customers but will also welcome non-Booker customers, giving them a fantastic opportunity to discover Booker and its exceptional foodservice offer. The Booker Foodservice Trade Show is once again designed to inspire, educate and help customers identify profitable opportunities for their businesses. With more than 200 exhibitors, attendees will be able to

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

 Presentation Zone  Drinks Theatre  Pub Garden  No & Low Bar  World of Wine  Coffee Lounge  Chicken Shop  Booker

Marketplace find out the very latest developments in everything from coffee and wine to butchery and fresh, beer and cider to own-brand and equipment. This year’s Show will also include an upweighted Christmas Zone, a Butchery Demonstration Area, a dedicated Presentation Zone, a Drinks Theatre, a Pub Garden, a Chef’s Stage, a No & Low Bar, a Chicken Shop, a Coffee Lounge and a whole lot more besides. Find out more in our full feature starting on p18 – and reserve your place now using the QR code opposite on this page.

 Farm Fresh  Venus  Planet Stand

Parking FREE for attendees who pre-register. Scan the QR code (above) to Pre-register.

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SPENDING UP 1.9% AS BUSY SUMMER KICKS IN The latest Barclays Consumer Spend Report shows card spending grew 1.9% year-on-year in June, a significant uplift on May’s 0.8% increase. Consumer card spending grew by 1.9% year-on-year (YOY) in June, a marked improvement on May’s 0.8% growth, driven by a combination of stabilising consumer confidence, warm and sunny weather, and the arrival of the World Cup. Those are the findings from the latest Barclays Consumer Spend Report. Three in five (59%) UK adults reported tuning into the World Cup this year. However, 47% said they watched more matches at home than they normally would, due to late kick-off times. Despite this, Barclays merchant-side data shows pubs have enjoyed substantial boosts on England match days, helped by extended opening hours. Pub transactions hit a 2026 peak on Saturday 27 June, when England faced Panama, at five times the year’s daily average (up 389.9%), representing a 161.7% YOY uplift. Combined figures for Sunday 5 July and Monday 6 July, when the England-Mexico kick-off was delayed

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

WORLD CUP FEVER Global payments company Square has published hospitality data showing how UK pubs and bars performed during the group stages of the recent World Cup. Square transaction data from the group stages, 1127 June, showed:  Pubs and bars saw

revenue up 90% during match periods.  Late-night transactions,

10pm-1am, rose 121% during primetime matches, as later kick-offs extended the evening economy. until 2am BST due to the weather, show that payments tripled, up 201.5% YOY. Similarly, England’s draw against Ghana resulted in an unusually busy Tuesday, 23 June, for the sector, with payments processed up 244.3% YOY. Rohan Kumar, Head of Spend Insights at Barclays, said: “Card spending saw further uplift in June, with both essential and non-essential categories recording stronger growth. Record temperatures, stabilising consumer confidence and the start of the World Cup helped drive a broadbased increase in activity, boosting spending on social occasions.”

 England vs Croatia, 17

June, drove a 57% lift in daily sales nationally.  England vs Ghana, 23

June, drove a 91% lift.  Steak (+9%), pizza

(+7%), crisps (+4%) and scampi fries (+3%) all saw an uptick in orders at pubs and bars.  Restaurant reservations

were up 6% versus normal periods, as venues prepared for crowds.

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BUSINESS RATES FOR HOSPITALITY VENUES SLASHED New Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to cut business rates bills for pubs, social clubs and live music venues across England from April next year.

Pubs, clubs and live music venues are set to receive a 20% cut to their business rates bills from April next year, saving the typical pub an estimated £1,100. The move will benefit nearly 32,000 businesses, providing much-needed certainty for operators looking to invest, grow and create jobs. New Prime Minister Andy Burnham has made the move as part of his drive to “build an economy that works for every postcode”. He added: “For

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

too long, governments have stood by while cherished venues have disappeared from our local high streets. So today I am changing that. “This government will back the businesses that people want to see in their communities. I said I would protect pubs and local high streets – the beating heart of our communities – and that’s what we will do. What we’re announcing is just the start as we work to bring back hope across the country.”

SUPPORT PACKAGE The Government said the rates support formed part of a package worth around £100m a year. This government has already begun the work to reform the business rates system throughout this Parliament. At Budget 2025, Rachel Reeves announced a permanent 5p cut in the business rates multipliers for over 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure properties, funded by a higher multiplier for the most expensive 1% of properties. At the same time, the government announced £4.3bn of support to help keep bills down for those seeing increases in their rateable values at the revaluation. This meant capping bill increases at 15% for most businesses from April earlier this year, or £800 for the smallest, as pandemic-era reliefs came to an end and new revaluations took effect. In recognition of the pressures pubs and live music venues have been under, a 15% relief off their 2026/27 bill was announced in January, with bills frozen in real terms for a further two years.

HEALEY CONFIRMS OCTOBER DATE FOR AUTUMN BUDGET New Chancellor John Healey has confirmed that the 2026 Autumn Budget will take place on Wednesday 28 October.

NINE OUT OF 10 ‘MODERATING CONSUMPTION' New data from Government-funded alcohol charity Drinkaware shows that more than nine out of 10 drinkers are using at least one method to help them moderate their alcohol consumption. A record 91% of adult drinkers - equivalent to about 42 million people said they are using various techniques to aid them in a drive to manage their alcohol intake.

New Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey has announced that the eagerly anticipated 2026 Autumn Budget will take place on Wednesday 28 October.

need to plan for the future” and referenced the recent announcement that business rates will be cut by 20% for clubs and live music venues from April next year.

The Labour MP for Rawmarsh and Conisbrough said his first Budget will “move money and power out of Westminster, and into every postcode around Britain”. Healey also promised to “give businesses and families some of the stability they

Of keen interest to foodservice operators will be whether the government responds to industry demands to cut hospitality VAT to 10% ahead of applying a visitor levy on overnight accommodation across England.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

This represents a significant 4% increase on last year. The most common tactic is having drink-free days during the week with 71% of respondents stating that this was their preferred method. This presents a clear opportunity for operators to retain customers and grow spend by enhancing and expanding their range of low and no alcohol beers, ciders, wines and spirits. confidence of businesses and consumers alike.”

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FULL REVIEW OF BUSINESS RATES ANNOUNCED Following a 20% cut in business rates announced by the Prime Minister in July, the Treasury has confirmed that a full review is being launched into the way business rates are calculated for pubs. The Treasury has announced that a full review into the way business rates are calculated for pubs and hotels in England and Wales is being launched. This could lead to major reform of the system. Business rates specialist Jerry Schurder will lead the review, which will look closely at valuations and is expected to report back in March next year. The review will include a consultation with landlords, hoteliers and business owners and comes in the wake of new Prime Minister Andy Burnham's announcement in July of a 20% cut in business rates for pubs, social clubs and live music venues in England, which will come into effect in April next year. Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

the British Beer & Pubs Association, said: "For years, pubs have paid a disproportionately higher business rates bill, so this review is sorely needed and hugely welcome." Pubs are currently valued differently for rates than other retail venues. Rather than being based solely on floor area, they are judged by a measure called Fair Maintainable Trade (FMT), which means that when a pub's turnover increases, so does its rates bill, effectively punishing pubs for success in the eyes of the BBPA.

COALITION AGAINST 'HOLIDAY TAX' A coalition of business, hospitality, tourism, countryside and travel groups is urging the Government to stop the so-called 'holiday tax'. The City of Edinburgh became the first city in the UK to introduce a holiday tax. Business groups have now written to the new Chancellor to warn of the "devastating impacts a holiday tax will have on families, jobs, tourism and the economy at large". Signatories, including UKHospitality, the National Farmers' Union, Airlines UK, UKinbound, UKEVENTS and the British Independent Retailers Association, said the Government's proposed tax would be "economically and socially damaging". Analysis from Oxford Economics estimates that there will be a clear negative impact on businesses and employment across the whole economy, with 33,000 fewer jobs, a hit of £2.2 billion to GDP and a £1.6 billion tax hike during a cost-of-living crisis.

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LEAD FEATURE w BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW 2026

IT'S ALMOST SHOWTIME! The Booker Foodservice Trade Show 2026 returns on 23rd September for another spectacular event that will inspire, educate and help Booker foodservice customers identify profitable opportunities. All roads lead to Birmingham on 23 September as thousands of attendees are set to return to the NEC for what promises to be another spectacular Booker Foodservice Trade Show. More than 200 supplier exhibitors are booked to take part in the Show and excitement is building as the biggest and best event in the sector draws near. The Show was moved to the NEC for the first time last year and the overwhelmingly positive response from Booker foodservice customers and suppliers demonstrated clearly that the central location and fantastic travel links make the NEC the perfect venue. As well as being extremely easy to reach by public transport, the

SEPTEMBER NEC, BIRMINGHAM

NEC also has extensive parking for those arriving by car – and Booker will cover all parking costs for foodservice customers who preregister for the event. The Show is open to all Booker foodservice customers but will also welcome non-Booker customers, giving them a fantastic opportunity to discover Booker and its exceptional foodservice offer.

Inspire and educate The Booker Foodservice Trade Show is once again designed to inspire, educate and help customers identify profitable opportunities for their businesses. With this year featuring more than 200 exhibitors, attendees will be able to find out the very latest

developments in everything from coffee and wine to butchery and fresh, beer and cider to own-brand and equipment. Whatever you’re interested in learning more about, you’ll find it at the Show.

Christmas Zone Returning for 2026 is the everpopular Christmas Zone, right at the front of the Show this year, where you will find everything you need to help make sure you have a strong and profitable festive period this year. Booker is your perfect partner for a perfect Christmas and a visit to the Zone will ensure you are ready in good time for one of the biggest seasonal opportunities of the year.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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LEAD FEATURE w BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW 2026

trends, explore the commercial benefits and discover opportunities to drive spend . Own Brand Proposition Launches Find out the more about the latest own-brand product launches and hear how they can strengthen your overall proposition. Learning from Hospitality Operators & Industry Trends & Services Proposition - Hear how operators are responding to rising costs and managing margins in the current market and learn first-hand how Booker can help.

Booker Marketplace

Butchery Demonstration Area One of the highlights of the Show every year is undoubtedly the Butchery Demonstration Area, where Booker chefs will give attendees first-hand experience of Booker's expertise and partnership with the butchery industry. The chefs will showcase the quality products and profitable solutions available to Booker customers and will demonstrate their industryleading expertise in breaking down carcasses into primals, making use of alternative and commercially viable cuts and maximising profitability while maintaining quality.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Meet the Experts Our Meet the Experts Zone gives attendees the chance to hear from a range of experts specialising in key opportunity areas including: Coffee & Breakfast - Review current customer trends and market opportunities within the breakfast mission. Butchery Proposition - Learn more about our premium Blackgate butchery offering which consistently delivers fantastic product quality, provenance and versatility. Alcohol & Venus Proposition - Take a deep dive into our huge drinks portfolio, learn about the latest

Booker Marketplace will feature heavily at the Show, highlighting to attendees the fantastic range of alcohol and equipment products that Booker can provide via its website. These products are not typically available in Booker branches and allow foodservice customers access to a much wider range, helping them set their business apart from the competition.

Farm Fresh The Farm Fresh own-brand from Booker is renowned for delivering excellent freshness and outstanding quality. Visitors to this area of the Show can learn more about these benefits of the Farm Fresh range, as well as learning about the many time-saving, prepared product solutions in the range that improve operational efficiency.

LEAD FEATURE w BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW 2026

food operators. The Stage will demonstrate how Booker products and expertise can help solve these challenges.

Venus Back again for another year, the ever-popular Venus area will showcase the utterly exceptional, carefully curated drinks range available from the Booker business, as well as discussing the latest relevant consumer trends, the continued shift to premiumisation and valuable route-to-market opportunities.

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PRE REGISTER

Drinks Theatre

No & Low Bar

Visit the Drinks Theatre if you want to level up your offer and make more from drinks. Interactive and openformat sessions taking place in the Theatre include supplier tastings, cocktail-making demonstrations, showmanship sessions and food and drink pairing experiences.

With low- and no-alcohol products continuing to grow in popularity, the No & Low Bar area of the Show will shine a light on the opportunities presented by this consistent shift in consumer behaviour. From alcoholfree and low-alcohol drink trends to the latest NPD, visitors to the Bar will be able to learn all they need to know in order to tap into this increasingly important market.

Pub Garden Pub gardens and outdoor areas offer the perfect opportunity to maximise footfall, sales and profits – and Booker’s dedicated Pub Garden area at the Show will offer advice, tips and information on how to really work that area of your business hard.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Chef’s Stage The Chef’s Stage will offer hands-on, practical, solutionled content designed around the key challenges most commonly faced by pub, hotel and fast-

The World of Wine zone brings together the best of a global world of wine to help Booker foodservice customers elevate their offer. Visitors to the zone will be able to sample wines, meet producers and explore food and wine pairing opportunities.

Coffee Lounge The Coffee Lounge has been expanded this year to help visitors learn how to make more of this category. Self-service coffee solutions will be on display, as will barista stations, and the opportunities presented by the growing iced coffee trend will be explored. There will also be coffee skills demonstrations – including latte art – and the chance to see and sample a range of accompanying products.

LEAD FEATURE w BOOKER FOODSERVICE TRADE SHOW 2026

Scan the QR code to pre register for this year's exhibition.

Highlights  Christmas Zone  Butchery Demonstration

Area  Chef’s Stage  Presentation Zone  Drinks Theatre  Pub Garden  No & Low Bar  World of Wine  Coffee Lounge  Chicken Shop  Booker Marketplace  Farm Fresh  Venus  Planet Stand

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Chicken Shop New for this year’s Show is the Chicken Shop, a specially created area for existing chicken shop operators, those with fryer-led menus or operators looking to introduce chicken concepts into wider menus.

Planet Stand Booker’s Planet team will be on hand to discuss the business’s deepseated commitment to sustainability and the environment. Visitors will be able to learn more about the progress that Booker is making, as well as learning how they can make positive differences in their own businesses.

Clubs & Support Programmes This area is dedicated to educating visitors about the fantastic financial and operational benefits that are available to operators who join Booker’s On Trade and Fast Food Clubs. Booker team members will also be able to discuss the many ways that Booker can help its foodservice customers through its Added Value Services programme. The Booker Foodservice Show 2026 is once again set to be a true highlight of the annual calendar and is an event not to be missed. If you haven’t registered yet, you can do so using the QR code in this feature or by talking to your CDM.

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PROFILE w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE

The Lowdown Venue Butterﬂies Steakhouse Location Blaenavon, South Wales Format Restaurant Caterer Dayne Watkins Opening hours Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-11.30pm; Sunday 12pm-5pm Staff 10 full-time; 15 part-time and casual workers Covers 100

THE BUTTERFLIES EFFECT

PROFILE w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE

Since Dayne Watkins took over 20 years ago, Butterflies Steakhouse has spread its wings and reached heady heights. In the heart of the former mining town of Blaenavon in South Wales sits Butterflies Steakhouse. Originally established in 1832 as a pub serving local miners, the venue has evolved into a destination restaurant that attracts diners from across the region and beyond. Dayne Watkins got his first job at Butterflies two decades ago at the age of 15 while he was still at school. “I started as a waiter with the previous owners,” he says. “I did the bar when I got a little bit older. Then I became restaurant manager and then we had some trainee chefs who weren't showing up for work, and I thought I could have a go at that.” In his early 20s, he began cooking at Butterflies. He embarked on a cookery course but found he was learning more on the job, so quit the course after a couple of weeks. “They were teaching me how to cut vegetables when I was already cooking steaks, making pies and baking lasagnes in the restaurant. I learned the basics of cooking from the previous owner, though the menu back then wasn't as progressive as it is now. It was more basic pub food.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

PROFILE w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE

A SMART SOLUTION With the restaurant bursting at the seams, Dayne came up with a clever idea. “We originally used the garden for walk-ins, but the main kitchen struggled with the extra demand, so before summer we bought a catering pod for the garden, which acts like a second kitchen,” he explains. “We've used it to serve gyros and Mexicanthemed food like tacos and nachos. It's been really popular. “On Sundays we're also doing takeaway Yorkshire puddings filled with roast dinner ingredients. We'll continue takeaway service through winter. The food pod has been a great solution – it brings back local customers who want something more casual.”

Dayne decided to hone the offer and saw a gap in the market for “a really good steakhouse”. He originally chose Booker to supply his steaks but switched to a nearby butcher in a bid to support local business. However, the supplier failed to communicate price increases. “They wouldn't always tell me when prices were changing, and it just added up. If steak prices go up by a couple of pounds, I need time to change menus and pricing.”

Booker too. “Our relationship with Booker is really good. The butchery team looks after us and the store manager regularly eats here too.” Butterflies receives deliveries twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“I also go to branch myself because we're short on storage space,” says Dayne. “The branch experience is always good. The staff are friendly, chatty and interested in how the business is doing. If there's a new product they'll often encourage me to try it. I nearly always come away with things I didn't realise I needed.” What's more, the meat quality is second to none. “We only buy Blackgate beef. It's really high quality. It's aged for at least 28 days and dry-aged on the bone for seven days. We push that in all of our marketing and on our menus. The provenance of the meat is something we promote heavily.” In combination with Dayne’s finesse in the kitchen, the restaurant has become renowned for its steaks. “In one week alone, we sold 450 steaks!” he beams.

He returned to Booker and says the relationship has remained strong ever since. “The transparency with pricing is much better, and they give notice of any changes so I can adjust menus.” The restaurant also sources dry goods, spirits, soft drink syrups, ice cream and some of its cheeses from

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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The 10oz Rib-eye Steak is Butterflies’ most popular dish. “It's my favourite steak, and on the menu it's marked as the chef's favourite - that probably helps sales.” The restaurant also serves fillet, sirloin, T-bone, rump and Tomahawk, which is a 35oz thickcut rib-eye served on the bone. Every steak on the menu includes a description so customers understand the cut. “I added those descriptions to help explain what people are ordering and encourage them to try something different,” says Dayne. “We also use them to discourage

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

ordering certain cuts well done. I won't cook a fillet steak well done. We use hot stones so customers can continue cooking it themselves if they want.” They are served with new potatoes, garlic mash or hand-peeled and hand-cut triple-cooked chips. But it isn’t all about steak. “We also offer Welsh lamb, chicken, duck breast and cod,” he says. “With our à la carte dishes we try new local produce wherever we can – we like to support local suppliers.” Meanwhile, herbs, courgettes and lettuce are sourced direct from the venue’s stunning garden area, which is positively blooming.

The restaurant has come a long way from its days as the miners’ watering hole, but Dayne remains mindful of its roots. Blaenavon Miners’ Pie, made with steak and Snowdonia Black Bomber extra mature cheddar, takes pride of place on the menu. He is also careful to ensure that the venue still appeals to locals. “The location itself is a little deprived because of the closure of the mines; people in the valleys are looking for value for money,” he says. “We're known for serving good, hearty portions. A lot of people take leftover food home with them, especially Sunday lunch. You probably get two

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PROFILE w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE

meals for the price of one!” Dayne is supported by his partner, Curtis, who has been involved in the business for the last 10 years. “He's basically our manager and handles payroll and a lot of the back-office work. He once worked in the bars and clubs in Cardiff, so he’s always had strong bar knowledge.” Dayne concedes to being hotheaded at times, so being backed by a good team is essential as the demand rarely lets up. “During service I can be quite intense, but it's never personal,” he says. “Afterwards we sit down, have a drink and chat. We're like a family. We all look out for each other.” Since Covid, the restaurant has become more popular than ever. “Every weeknight is fully booked, and Sunday lunch has a waiting list of around 12 months. Friday and Saturday bookings are often six months in advance. We have a massive waiting list.” This is partly down to the restaurant’s high profile, having picked up a number of impressive accolades. It has achieved Traveller’s Choice status on TripAdvisor thanks to its superb reviews and was the only restaurant in Wales to make the OpenTable Top 100. “We've won plenty of awards, but featuring on the OpenTable Top 100 was probably one of the biggest because it's based on real diner data,” he says. “OpenTable uses reviews, ratings and review wording to analyse feedback.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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PROFILE w BUTTERFLIES STEAKHOUSE

Despite its success, Dayne has rejected the idea of moving to a bigger venue. “It would be nice, but the overheads would increase dramatically,” he explains. “I'm happy with what we do. Every night is full. The bills are manageable because of the size of the building. Everything is relative. If we moved, costs could easily double.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

He bought the freehold for the premises three years ago, which put him in a much stronger position and saves £1,000 a month in rent. He is eager to reinvest any profits back into the business. “We're always making improvements. We've upgraded the seating, installed new windows, added air conditioning, repainted the outside, and rebranded and updated our logo. “We changed

from Butterflies Bar & Kitchen to Butterflies Steakhouse,” he says. “We're not really a bar anymore, and the new name better reflects our main offering.” With its metamorphosis complete, Butterflies can bask in the sunlight of its success. Blaenavon might be famed for coal mining, but they struck gold with this place.

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COFFEE, COCKTAILS & COMMUNITY

PROFILE w MOKO COFFEE HOUSE AND KITCHEN

A calendar bursting with activities and a menu packed with tasty, affordable dishes has made Moko in Hinckley a hub for local ladies.

The Lowdown Venue Moko Coffee House & Kitchen Location Hinckley, Leicestershire Format Café Caterer Molly Pinson

When the Mexican restaurant that Molly Pinson and her friend worked at closed down, the pair of them teamed up with her former boss to launch Moko Coffee House & Kitchen. “I really jumped at the opportunity to become more independent and took a lot that I knew from big chains and put it into my own business,” she says. She also channelled her own interests. “When we opened Moko [in November 2022], I remember saying to my best friend: ‘What do we like doing? We like going out, going for coffee, taking the dogs out, but we also like cocktails’. Once we saw the clientele was predominantly women, we realised there was a market there.” Not long after opening, Molly became pregnant. “I just scraped one year before I went on maternity leave,” she says.

Opening hours Mon-Sun: 9am-3pm Staff 27 Seats 50

with other local businesses to drive activity-led events at the café. “We're known for doing all these events in town and it's just nonstop,” she says. “Our diary is basically a social calendar. We’ve run yoga mornings, themed bottomless brunches, craft workshops, canvas painting, candle painting, glass painting and jewellery making. Then we looked at the kids' audience and started doing kids' parties for birthdays, Halloween, Christmas and even Santa events.

“We've hosted networking mornings, kids’ clubs, book clubs. We do a kids’ morning every Monday with our own soft play. It's a bit of everything that I would want now as a parent and as a 28-year-old. At one point we were doing around 40 collaborations. We've worked with yoga studios, hairdressers, photographers and more. Bringing experiences to Moko was a really important thing for us. It keeps every week different, which the team enjoy too.” Molly regularly highlights upcoming events on social media and also posts cute photos of the café’s fourlegged customers to remind followers that the café is dog friendly. Moko recently launched Girls’ Night. “We provided five or six different activities like glass painting, tote bag decorating and paint by numbers,” Molly explains. “We did picky teas and loads of small plates. You could come in and have a drink if you wanted, or not. You could do an activity or not. There was no

When she came back to work after having her daughter, Dotty, Molly’s business partners decided to exit, but she was determined to power on. She explains that Moko is much more than a coffee house and kitchen because she frequently links up

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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PROFILE w MOKO COFFEE HOUSE AND KITCHEN

BUSINESS BRAINS A qualified accountant, Molly has always had a good head for figures. “My brain was always torn between the maths side and the hospitality side,” she says. She did Business Studies at college while working part-time in hospitality but says she is pretty much self-taught. “I always say that when you're at school, you're never taught how to run a business,” she says. “It takes lots of research, lots of reading and staying up to date with trends.” Molly is also an active board member for the Hinckley Business Improvement District (BID). “We sponsored the Hinckley Garden Show. We created cocktails and mocktails based around flowers and plants.

pressure. We launched it in May and put five dates out and they all sold out within 72 hours.” The business is shaped around its customers’ wants and needs. “We always welcome feedback;

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

we couldn't achieve what we want without listening to people.” Molly changed the company’s opening hours to better suit customer habits. “We noticed people don't have as much money as they used

to and breakfast is a lot cheaper than dinner, so we stopped regular evening opening and instead focused on calendar-based events.” The café offers breakfast, lunch, brunch and teas. “We try to do a lot of fresh food,” she says. “So pancakes, sandwiches, hearty salads and English breakfasts. For drinks, we've got teas, coffees, mocktails, cocktails, wine, beer, milkshakes. Then you've got the kids’ menu and seasonal specials as well.” Chef Max (main picture) has been preparing meals at Moko since day one. “We've got a bit of a brother and sister relationship,” says Molly. “He's been a massive part of the quality in that kitchen. His standards are incredibly high and he works so hard.” Brunch wraps, which incorporate

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PROFILE w MOKO COFFEE HOUSE AND KITCHEN

Around 80% to 85% of her stock is sourced from Booker.

All of the café’s alcohol comes from Booker, along with most of its meat, vegetables, pancake mixes and syrups. “We spend about £8,000 a month with Booker,” she says. “We buy a lot in bulk. We're ordering boxes and boxes of bacon and sausages every week.”

“The Mexican used some very expensive suppliers, and I remember comparing prices and realising we could save a fortune using Booker!” grins Molly.

The venue receives deliveries on Monday and Thursday. “I love visiting the Booker branch when I get the chance, I've picked up ideas from the depot,” says Molly.

“I genuinely think there's a bit of snobbery around Booker. We still care about quality, but there's no point paying far more for the same products.”

“There was a range called Food to Share which inspired small plates ideas. We also discovered brands like Sidoli and started using more of their products.”

a full English breakfast inside a toasted wrap, are huge sellers and pancakes are another crowd pleaser. “Kids often order adult portions because they love them.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

She has strong relationships with the Booker team. “Our account manager, Amandeep, has been amazing. He gets to know everybody and keeps in touch. “He is very supportive. When a delivery couldn’t come, Amandeep loaded things into his car and drove them over himself,” she recalls, “and when my business partner left, he brought in a bottle of Prosecco. "Little things like that mean a lot. “I always say I'd recommend Booker to a new business in a heartbeat. "You just can’t really fault it.”

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PROFILE w MOKO COFFEE HOUSE AND KITCHEN

Molly also makes good use of the rebate system and the fact that you can return unopened alcohol. “That's really useful for private hire events.” She claims that customer service is what keeps bringing customers back. “We've got an amazing team and many have been there for years. We're very female-dominated… we've worked hard to create a safe space.” The café’s interior has been carefully thought out, offering a dedicated kids’ play area and cosy armchairs, while stylish vintage-style prints add plenty of sophistication for cocktail lovers. Molly recently refreshed the décor, opting for a calmer aesthetic and personal touches. “Some of the pictures are actually team members' family photos, dogs and even chickens!” she beams. “We wanted little stories behind things.” She loves a good bargain too. “Some of the bird pictures came from TK Maxx. I love TK Maxx and always end up buying things.” She’s keen to deliver value for her customers too. “We've always run offers and promotions because people need an excuse to come in. We do Two Tuesday where two people can get brunch dishes and drinks for £22. We also do a Midweek Moko Fix where people can get lunch and a drink for £10. It's bringing people in at a nice round price point.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

PROFILE w MOKO COFFEE HOUSE AND KITCHEN

Business is booming at present, so much so that Molly has taken the leap and opened a second venue. The run-up to the opening of her second café has been “super mental” and not what she had originally planned. “This time last year, we were looking at moving [the original café] to a much bigger location in Hinckley and then it kind of got pulled away from underneath us… and then I got pregnant!”

Another property came up in nearby Earl Shilton and Molly realised a second site was the way forward. “It was the easiest way for us to expand without it being too much work,” she states. “We may relocate the Hinckley site in the future, but for now we're keeping things as they are.” It was a race against the clock to get the second café up and running before going on her second maternity leave, but at 38 weeks pregnant, Molly and her team managed it in style.

“Just four weeks after getting the keys, my incredible team turned my vision into reality, and I couldn’t be prouder of every single one of them,” she says. “Their hard work, dedication and attention to every little detail have created such a beautiful space, and I’m so grateful.” Having navigated maternity leave and motherhood, the departure of her business partners, and the launch of a second venue, Molly has shown that adaptability is just as important as ambition.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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CHOICE w BURGERS

GO BIG WITH BURGERS

From classic to plant-powered, there’s a burger to suit every taste.

As the series of summer heatwaves draws to a close, it might be the right time to refresh your menu for the months ahead – and nothing ticks every box quite like a burger. Creating a dedicated burger menu can be a fantastic way to appeal to as broad an audience of customers as possible. After all, who doesn’t love a tasty burger? From super-indulgent masterpieces to more traditional versions, from Asian-inspired to plant-powered, there’s a burger for everyone. Just as important, they’re quick and simple to prepare for your kitchen team and they’re guaranteed to keep your customers happy.

Make a menu If you are interested in building a dedicated burger menu, it all comes down to exactly what your particular customer base is looking for – and nobody knows that better than you. But it’s generally a good idea to ensure that your burger range appeals to as many of your customers as possible, from kids to adults, from traditionalists to vegans. That way no one is left out and groups of friends or family can get tucked into a delicious, satisfying burger that’s just right for them. A great place to start is with an all-time classic Beef Burger. Booker’s exclusive Blackgate Aberdeen Angus Burgers are the perfect foundation for classic done right: bold, beefy and perfectly balanced. Add some lettuce, a slice or two of tomato, some relish and maybe some smashed avocado in a brioche bun and you have a cast iron crowd pleaser.

Exotic influence To begin expanding your burger range, it makes sense to tap into the long-standing trend around global cuisines. How about a Wagyu Burger, for example? Booker’s Blackgate Wagyu Burgers help transform a standard burger into something truly rich, indulgent and melt in the mouth. Top with some friend onions and serve with a side of onion rings and you have a dish that’s as visually appealing and TikTok-worthy as it is tasty and satisfying. Broaden your appeal even further with a halal Ihsaan Smash Beef Burger. This modern take on a classic favourite is an easy way to refresh your menu and give customers something new to try.

Vegan victory Don’t forget too that burgers are as popular with vegan customers as they are with everyone else, so it’s a good idea to include a vegan option in your new burger menu. The Moving Mountains Burger is the perfect solution, delivering a plant-based, flavour-packed burger that is seriously satisfying. There is no limit to the creativity your kitchen team can bring to levellingup their burger game and driving fresh excitement as well as growing footfall, sales and profits. Wherever their creativity takes them, Booker has everything you need to create top quality, fantastic value burgers that will help grow your bottom line.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CHOICE w BURGERS

PREMIUM BEEF BURGER A classic done right: bold, beefy, and perfectly balanced. Blackgate Aberdeen Angus Burgers M297744 10x113g

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CHOICE w BURGERS

SMASH BURGER Buttery, luxuriant and delicious, the ultimate in burger satisfaction. Ihsaan Fresh Classic Smash Beef Burger M310783 24x85g

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VEGAN BURGER Plant-based, packed with ﬂavour, and seriously satisfying. Moving Mountains Burger M247898 20x113g

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CHOICE w MEAT

A CUT ABOVE:

FOUR PROFITABLE WAYS WITH MEAT Taking a fresh look at your meat offering to provide exciting new options and make more use of great value cuts could be a fantastic way to grow sales and profits as well as enhancing the choice you offer your customers.

Times may change and customer behaviours may evolve but there’s no question that meat remains at the heart of the dining experience in many bars, clubs and restaurants. In changing times, however, it’s important to stay ahead of the game by continuing to innovate and keeping your menu fresh and relevant.

getting a little more creative with value meat cuts to boost your bottom line, there are plenty of opportunities available – and Booker is here to help you on that journey. Booker employs more Master Butchers than anyone else in the UK, making it perfectly placed to offer the expert, experienced advice you need to make the most of meat. With that in mind, here are four ideas to help get you started on the journey towards satisfied customers and bigger profits.

And it’s never been more important to pay particular attention to your meat-based dishes to ensure that not only are you maximising the enjoyment your customers get when they visit you but are also maximising the sales and profits you make on every dish served.

Whether it’s simply adding new and interesting cuts to your offering or

A fantastic way to drive down cost and increase profits without sacrificing anything in terms of

Make more of great value cuts

quality or the customer’s dining experience is to focus on making more of value cuts of meat. They’re less expensive to buy but can with a little thought and planning can be turned into exquisite dishes that can still command a premium price, driving up your margins in the process. A fine example is pork collar which is available from Booker at just £5.49 a kilo. It’s a rich, juicy and very versatile cut taken from the neck of the pig. It’s traditionally prized for its deep flavour and natural marbling. Slow-cook it, grill it, or roast it low and long, and the result will be dishes with melting tenderness and bold, savoury taste every time.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

MASTER BUTCHERS Did you know that Booker employs more Master Butchers than any other organisation in the UK? This means when you buy from Booker, you’re gaining direct access to a team of Master and Craft Butchers who are all here to help you get the most from your meat purchases.  Full range of fresh/

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Jack Links Mr Beast Beef Jerky Original 12x25g M317844 Jack Links Mr Beast Beef Jerky Sweet & Hot 12x25g M317845 Jack Links Mr Beast Beef Jerky Teriyaki 12x25g M317843

CHOICE w MEAT

Pork Collar M176428

£5.49/kg Pork collar is a cost effective but rich, juicy cut taken from the neck of the pig, prized for its deep flavour and natural marbling. Slow-cook it, grill it, or roast it low and long, and it rewards you with melting tenderness and bold, savoury taste every time.

Try a Picanha

Nothing excites customers quite like a brand-new cut of meat on the menu that they may never have come across before.

Buy into Best Ends

Cutting costs by using value cuts is a good way to go, but driving up sales and profits with premium cuts is also a great option.

Step up the Picanha! It is a bold, flavour-packed cut of beef known for its thick, juicy layer of fat that melts into the meat as it cooks.

Take lamb best ends, a premium quality cut taken from the rib and rightly prized for their delicate flavour and their natural elegance.

It’s a massive favourite in Brazilian cooking and it’s all about big flavour, simple seasoning, and irresistible tenderness. When it's cooked properly, beef Picanha delivers a rich, succulent bite every time – and it’s available from Booker for just £15.99 a kilo.

Whether roasted or grilled, they are highly valued for their tenderness, appealing marbling and rich flavour, making them a premium choice for the BBQ or for show-stopping mains. At just £19.99 a kilo, Blackgate Best Ends are available exclusively from Booker.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Steak your claim

A fantastic sirloin or rump steak is a must on many menus, so why not take yours to the next level with a stunning On The Bone Tomahawk Steak? At £20.99 a kilo, it’s one of those dishes that has everyone gasping as it's served – and also has other customers deciding that’s exactly what they want when they see it. Booker’s premium steaks are all about big flavour, quality cuts, and expert cooking. From the richness of a tomahawk to the tenderness of a sirloin, each steak is carefully chosen to deliver an unforgettable taste.

CHOICE w MEAT

Beef Picanha M090081

£15.99/kg Picanha is a bold, flavour-packed cut of beef known for its thick, juicy layer of fat that melts into the meat as it cooks. A favourite in Brazilian cooking, it’s all about big flavour, simple seasoning, and irresistible tenderness. Cooked right, Picanha delivers a rich, succulent bite every time.

Blackgate Lamb Best Ends M229159

£19.99/kg Lamb best ends are a premium cut taken from the rib, prized for their delicate flavour and beautiful presentation. Whether roasted or grilled, they are highly valued for their tenderness, appealing marbling and rich flavour, making them a premium choice.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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CHOICE w WITH OR WITHOUT

WITH OR WITHOUT: HAVE IT YOUR WAY As demand for low- and no-alcohol drinks continues to grow, why not take the hassle out of building your drinks menu with some options that can be served with or without alcohol? Almost half of all adult UK drinkers – 44% – now use low- and noalcohol products to help moderate their intake, according to KAM Insight research, which means that there’s a huge audience of people out there looking for full-flavoured, tasty drinks but without the alcohol. Stocking a range of low- and noalcohol drinks from Booker is of course a fantastic way of tapping into this demand, but why not take it one step further and create a list of delicious drinks that customers can order with or without alcohol? It’s a great way to minimise the workload of your bar team while

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 67 2026

also ensuring that customers looking for an alcohol-free drink have some fantastic options.

Inspiration station To help you do just that, the team at Booker has created some examples of popular drinks that work equally well with or without alcohol. Each drink can be crafted with alcohol or made alcohol-free, delivering the same bold flavours, fresh ingredients and perfect serve every time. It’s up to you whether you copy these directly or use them as inspiration to create your own

drinks. From a Mango Daiquiri or a Peach Spritz to a Simply Piña Colada or an Elderflower Lime, these drinks look and taste just as fantastic whether they contain a spirit or not.

MANGO DAIQUIRI Mango purée topped with a lime and sugar syrup shot, topped with either rum or Ting Soda. WITHOUT ALCOHOL

78P

PER SERVING

WITHOUT ALCOHOL

£1.30 PER SERVING

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CHOICE w WITH OR WITHOUT

SIMPLY PINA COLADA

PEACH SPRITZ Funkin peach purée topped with either Prosecco or lemonade.

Simply Funkin ready to use Piña Colada with either rum, or pineapple juice or without.

WITHOUT ALCOHOL

PER SERVING

48P

95P

69 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

80P

WITHOUT ALCOHOL

£1.29 PER SERVING

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CHOICE w WITH OR WITHOUT

RUM PUNCH A blend of juices, equal parts of orange and pineapple with a shot of lime and grenadine, finished with ginger ale to create a great pitcher. WITHOUT ALCOHOL

£2.08 PER SERVING

WITHOUT ALCOHOL

£3.64 PER SERVING

ELDERFLOWER LIME Fever-Tree elderflower, mixed with a shot of Funkin lime purée and topped with lemonade or vodka. WITHOUT ALCOHOL

96P

PER SERVING

WITHOUT ALCOHOL

£1.68 PER SERVING

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 71 63

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M132047 Galaxy Sticks 50x25g

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SERVICE w BUCKETS

PUT IT ON ICE xxxx xxxx xxxxx xx xxxxxx xxxxx

You can’t beat buckets for speed, simplicity and standout sales – so why not try putting it on ice? When it comes to maximising sales with optimum speed and major visual impact as well as minimum fuss for your serving team, nothing beats an ice bucket packed with delicious, refreshing options served on a mound of fresh ice. It’s the ideal solution for efficiency, simplicity, and standout sales whether we’re talking chilled beers, crisp ciders or tasty ready-to-drink cocktails. It’s even worth considering adding a new section to your drinks list to help drive participation and inspire other customers to request ‘one of those’ when they see an over-flowing

bucket sitting in the middle of a nearby table. Buckets are particularly effective for large groups and for sporting events where large numbers of thirsty customers all arrive at once and all want an ice-cold drink as quickly as your service team can manage.

Cocktails quick With ready-to-drink cocktails more popular than ever, why not take all of the hassle out of providing choice and quality to your customers by offering a Moth

MOTH COCKTAILS BUCKET

BUZZ BALLS COCKTAIL BUCKET

Moth Margarita M286756 12x125ml Moth Passionfruit Martini M310206 12x125ml Moth Strawberry Daiquiri M319424 12x125ml Moth Espresso Martini M286755 12x125ml

BuzzBallz Strawberry ‘Rita M296712 12x200ml BuzzBallz Lime ‘Rita M296678 12x200ml BuzzBallz Berry Cherry Limeade M314882 12x200ml BuzzBallz Choc Tease M296679 12x200ml BuzzBallz Passionfruit Martini M304891 12x200ml BuzzBallz Lotta Colada M304893 12x200ml BuzzBallz Chilli Mango M296713 12x200ml

SELL PRICE £25.00 % PROFIT 52% CASH PROFIT £10.84

4 FOR

£25

BUCKET

£10

per serving

SELL PRICE £25.00 % PROFIT 46% CASH PROFIT £9.57

4 FOR

£25

BUCKET

£11.26 per serving

Prices and products are correct at time of going to print and are not guaranteed unless stated, errors expected. Subject to change without prior consultation. Recipes and serves are suggestions only and for illustration purposes, subject to price and detail change without consultation. Please note all products will be subject to local listing and availability, please check with your local branch for full details.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

SERVICE w BUCKETS

£12 BEER BUCKET

£14 BEER BUCKET

Becks NRB M258676 24x275ml Amstel M301527 12x300ml Mahou M292725 12x330ml Sol M301528 12x330ml Coors M302594 12x330ml

Budweiser M234022 24x330ml Birrificio Angelo Poretti M295594 12x330ml Cruzcampo M289379 12x330ml Estrella Damm M259455 12x330ml

SELL PRICE £12.00 % PROFIT 56% CASH PROFIT £5.60

SELL PRICE £14.00 % PROFIT 52% CASH PROFIT £6.07 SERVE 5 BOTTLES OF EITHER MIXED OR THE SAME BOTTLE

SERVE 5 BOTTLES OF EITHER MIXED OR THE SAME BOTTLE

Cocktails Bucket or a Buzz Balls Cocktail Bucket? Offer four different Moth Cocktail cans for £25, nestled on a mountain of ice, and u will clear a 52% profit, which means £10.84 in cash profit.

single serve options. Perhaps a couple of whites, a rosé, a Prosecco and an Aperol Spritz RTD for good measure? Serve in a classic Champagne bucket packed with ice and watch your sales fizz.

Likewise on a Buzzballs bucket, you have a host of flavour variants to offer on that same four for £25 deal and you’ll make £9.57 in cash profit.

Beer buckets

Best of all, the buckets take seconds to prepare and serve for your team and add some fantastic theatre that will hopefully inspire other customers to follow suit. Or, with Au Vodka continuing to be hugely popular with many consumers, you could try an Au Vodka can bucket at just £20 for four. Cash profit on this one is £9.84.

Sparkling sales If your customer base is more of a spritz and fizz type of gang, why not create a Spritz & Sparkling Bucket of

If the majority of your customers prefer a beer, of course, it’s equally easy to build some great bucket options to meet their needs – and deliver big sales and profits. It’s simplest to offer buckets by price – a five for £12 bucket, for example, or a £16 bucket for premium beers – then advertise them at the bar and in your drinks menu. Enhance the choice you provide by offering five mixed bottles or five exactly the same. It’s entirely up to your customer. Whatever option they go for, you can serve them quickly and make cash profits of up to £7.20 per serve.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

STOCK UP NOW

stock the #no1 water brand in away from home * CLAIM YOUR FREE OUTLET POS

STILL 500ML

*Circana wholesale. Foodservice. Water. L13W Value Sales. Data w/e 22.02.2026

SERVICE w BUCKETS

£16 BEER BUCKET Mythos Hellenic Lager Beer M279326 24x330ml Corona Extra NRB 4.5% M135253 24x330ml Peroni Nastro Azzurro M279322 24x330ml Birra Moretti M232387 24x330ml Heineken M249725 12x330ml Cobra M307914 12x330ml Madri Excepcionale M279544 12x330ml Brewdog Punk IPA M261634 12x330ml Asahi Super Dry M285089 12x330ml SELL PRICE £16.00 % PROFIT 54% CASH PROFIT £7.20

£12 ALCOHOL FREE BEER BUCKET Asahi 0% M308266 24x330ml Heineken 0% M252278 24x330ml Birra Moretti 0% M294482 6x4x330ml Peroni 0.0% M276895 12x330ml Corona Cero NRB M319437 12x330ml Brewdog Punk AF M251964 12x330ml Budweiser 0% M319216 12x330ml SELL PRICE £12.00 % PROFIT 52% CASH PROFIT £5.20 SERVE 5 BOTTLES OF EITHER MIXED OR THE SAME BOTTLE

AU VODKA CAN BUCKET Au Vodka Blue Raspberry RTD M280463 12x330ml Au Vodka Black Grape RTD M281757 12x330ml Au Vodka Cherryade M289674 12x330ml Au Vodka Pink Lemonade M296658 12x330ml Au Vodka Apple Tango M317892 12x330ml Au Vodka Orange Tango M317877 12x330ml SELL PRICE £20.00 % PROFIT 59% CASH PROFIT £9.84

SERVE 5 BOTTLES OF EITHER MIXED OR THE SAME BOTTLE

SPRITZ & SPARKLING SINGLE SERVE

£20

Aperol Spritz RTS M302633 6x4x200ml Prosecco Single Serve M191002 12x200ml Most Wanted Sauvignon Blanc M283228 12x187ml Most Wanted Pale Rosé M286398 12x187ml Most Wanted Malbec M283229 12x187ml

£6.83

SELL PRICE £? % PROFIT ?% CASH PROFIT £?

4 FOR

BUCKET

per serving

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CHOICE w MARKETPLACE

FIND MORE OF WHAT YOU NEED ON

MARKETPLACE Booker Marketplace offers access to thousands of lines not available in-branch, delivered within days by free courier service.

As the largest wholesaler in the UK, Booker already offers you a fantastic range of products in every branch – but did you know that Booker also offers a vastly extended range via its Marketplace platform? You can find thousands of additional lines, including non-food and equipment, that are not routinely

available in-branch, all delivered free of charge within days. Simply browse on the Booker website and look out for Marketplace tagged lines which you can then order and pay for online. It couldn’t be simpler. Marketplace provides you with access to a massive range of lines that can help you elevate your business and drive up footfall, sales and profits.

AIR0 BY LINCAT

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Whether you are looking for picnic tables, bottle coolers, crockery, cutlery, air fryers or pretty much anything else, you’ll find it all on Marketplace. It really is your quick and simple one-stop-shop. So why not check it out today?

NEW

1025591

A serious air fryer made for busy kitchens. Compact and bar/counter mountable, perfect for space-starved kitchens. Expand your menu, serve healthier food and cut oil costs to zero. Support your allergen compliance by segregating your fried menu items. Thirteen amp plug and play. Simple & intuitive with a 7” touchscreen with icons. Ventless operation, no extraction system needed. A catalytic converter removes airborne fats. Quick to clean and built to last, removable gN 2/3 cavity for fast deep cleaning.

Fully equipped

£2,530 Fast and consistent cook times: Fries 500g: 4.30 | 800g: 8.30 (shake halfway)

Chicken Goujons 400g: 4.30 Nuggets (12 pieces): 5.30 Fish Fingers (16 pieces): 5.30 Hash Browns (8 pieces): 6.30

KitKat® 2 Finger catering bulk pack 72

Individually wrapped bars for resale

M204189 WSP: £26.39 POR: 25.5%

Why choose KitKat? • 98%+ Shopper Awareness • 15M+ KitKat® Buyers in UK1 • KitKat® #2 Chocolate Brand in Foodservice2 • KitKat® 2 finger is the most consumed chocolate biscuit bar with a hot drink3 For Illustrative Purposes only. ®Reg Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A

1. Kantar 52we 17.05.26 KitKat Buvers, Total Market 2. Circana OneView YTDwe 24.05.26 KitKat Foodservice, Total Wholesale, Confectionery. Total Wholesale 3. Worldpanel by Numerator, Usage, Total In Home / Carried Out, otal CBBs (Branded / PL) consumed alongside hot drinks, Occasions %, 52 w/e 14th June 2026)

CHOICE w MARKETPLACE

HALLCO HC2BK BOTTLE COOLER 1019918

Double-door bottle cooler with a 166 bottle capacity. Self-closing hinged doors, with two shelves per door. Digital controller, 1-10°C temperature range. Black exterior with aluminium interior. External dimensions: 905W x 515D x 900H Interior dimensions 800W x 345D x 750H. (Contents not included)

£495

NEW ARCOROC WILLI BECHER BEER GLASSES 12S Varieties as stocked

The Willi Becher is a well-known and popular glass in Germany. The inverse conical shape is ideal for pouring the perfect beer and sits nicely in the hand. The diverse range of capacities makes this range suitable for a wide array of drinks.

FROM

£33.99

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

M221933

M296263

CHOICE w MARKETPLACE

AMEFA ‘CARLTON’ CUTLERY 12S Varieties as stocked.

Uber modern and at home on the coolest tables, Carlton is one of the most popular patterns that feels as good as it looks.

FROM

£16.00

‘FUSION BY ACADEMY’

NEW

MODERN CLASSICS PIZZA & PASTA PLATES Varieties as stocked

Introducing Amalfi, Taverna, Garland, Renaissance and Neo. Perfect for showcasing Pizza, Pasta and Mediterranean cuisines. Five mix and match ranges featuring motifs while displaying a classical decoration to elevate food and mood simultaneously.

FROM

£51.09

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CHOICE w NEW WINES

FRESH NEW WINES Canto do Artista Tinto This wine displays ripe red fruits and a medium body, with a pleasing freshness on the ﬁnish. Smooth tannins contribute to a velvety texture whilst balancing fresh berry character. A perfect pairing for grilled red meats, tomato pasta, or spicy dishes.

B’aixa Vinho Verde Discover crisp green apple, zippy lemon zest, and passionfruit, accompanied by a light effervescence and refreshing acidity. Enjoy with light seafood or as an aperitif.

B’aixa Vinho Verde Rosé Discover vibrant red berry aromas with hints of lime and white ﬂowers, accompanied by a light effervescence and mouthwatering acidity. A brilliant partner for light summer dishes.

M319312 6x75cl £47.99

M318843 6x75cl £38.99

M318846 6x75cl £38.99

Driving maximum footfall, sales and profits from your wine list means keeping your range fresh and inspiring for your customers. To help you do just that, the wine buying team at Booker has recently refreshed the range of wines available to you, bringing in an exciting new selection of wines that will bring fresh energy to your range

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

with a vibrant, contemporary styles as well as proven performers. The range has been carefully designed to help you inspire your customers and unlock new sales opportunities – and you can check out the full Booker On Trade Wine List for 2026 by scanning the QR code in this feature.

CHOICE w NEW WINES

Côte Lavande Rosé Delicate pale pink in colour, this rosé showcases aromas of fresh strawberries and raspberries. Juicy and generous on the palate, it bursts with bright fruit and refreshing acidity through to a crisp ﬁnish.

Côte Lavande Sauvignon Blanc This wine will take you back to those late 1920s days of sunshine, travel, and carefree decadence. Crisp and refreshing, delivering bright fruit, zesty acidity and a subtle minerality on the ﬁnish.

Côte Lavande Merlot Bright ruby in colour, with inviting aromas of black cherry and ripe strawberry, coupled with gentle tannins and an elegant ﬁnish. A versatile choice.

M318282 6x75cl £44.99

M318286 6x75cl £44.99

M318282 6x75cl £44.99

New news The new range features something for every taste and every customer, from the most modern explorer to the most classic traditionalist. Take the Côte Lavande range: from the classic, heritage labelling to the wines themselves, customers will be taken back to those late 1920s days of sunshine, travel and carefree decadence. Featuring a Sauvignon Blanc, a Merlot and a Rosé, these inviting wines provide the perfect accompaniment to a

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

range of popular dishes – and those fantastic labels add a certain traditional allure to the table. All three wines are available at just £44.99 per case.

Green and organic With more customers than ever keen to minimise their impact on the environment, the new Sea Change Pacific range might help you unlock some new sales. Created using minimised packaging to reduce waste and

SIP INTO SOMETHING FRESHER TASTING

Best Selling Liqueur*

Fill a glass with ice then add 75ml of prosecco and 75ml of soda water

Add 50ml St~Germain Elderflower Liqueur

Garnish with a fresh lime wedge and a sprig of mint

BREEZER ORANGE

M305932

BREEZER LIME

M306341

BREEZER WATERMELON

M305933

BREEZER PASSIONFRUIT

M317895

M144432

St~Germain 70cl x 6

M144433

St~Germain 70cl x 1

E H T T E L

FLAVOUR

PLAY

GRAB YOURS NOW!

CHOICE w NEW WINES

Sea Change Pacific Trebbiano-Pinot Grigio Sea Change Wines utilise minimised packaging to reduce waste and environmental impact. Offering vibrant aromas of tropical white fruit and subtle floral notes. Bright fruit is complemented by a medium body and clean finish.

Sea Change Pacific Spumante Extra Dry This Spumante highlights delicate aromas of white flowers, crisp orchard fruit, peach, and a touch of citrus. A refreshing palate is accompanied by elegant bubbles and an easy-drinking finish. Enjoy as an aperitif.

M318316 6x75cl £38.99

M318317 6x75cl £38.99

Cielo Organico Macabeo Sauvignon Blanc Discover fresh green apple and lemon zest aromas, accompanied by subtle ﬂoral hints, crisp acidity, and a refreshing ﬁnish. Brilliant with seafood, spring vegetables and goat’s cheese.

Cielo Organico Tempranillo Discover fresh cherry and red berry aromas, accompanied by juicy acidity, soft tannins, and ample length. Pairs beautifully with classic British dishes like roast chicken and mild cheddar cheese.

M318292 6x75cl £38.99

M318285 6x75cl £38.99

environmental impact, these vibrant and refreshing wines provide an elegant partner to autumn dishes. The range includes a Trebbiano-Pinot Grigio and a sparkling Spumante Extra Dry, both available at just £38.99 a case. Also ideal is a new range of two organic wines from Cielo: a Macabeo Sauvignon Blanc and a Tempranillo. Bursting with flavour and vibrantly fresh, these wines can help add something a little different to your wine menu. Prices and products are correct at time of going to print and are not guaranteed unless stated, errors expected. Subject to change without prior consultation. Recipes and serves are suggestions only and for illustration purposes, subject to price and detail change without consultation. Please note all products will be subject to local listing and availability, please check with your local branch for full details

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Moulded Fibre Cutlery To compliment our moulded fibre takeaway food packaging.

New product launching in October 2026

Purchase online and in-store from October! www.booker.co.uk @gopakgroup

BOOKER NETWORKS w UPDATE

PRIDE OF PLACE In our latest update on Booker’s four inspirational Colleague Networks, we turn the spotlight back onto the powerful work of LGBTQ+ at Booker.

In recent months, we’ve been updating you on the many inspiring developments that have taken place within Booker’s four Colleague Networks – the pistons of progress that power the common goal of ensuring everyone feels welcome at Booker.

Since then, LGBTQ+ at Booker has continued to grow both its reach and impact across the business – learning every step of the way and leaning into those learnings with the creation of more structured approaches and new initiatives that seek to drive improvement and lasting change.

In this issue, we return the spotlight to the LGBTQ+ at Booker Colleague Network which, it’s fair to say, is shining brighter than ever before – having undergone quite the evolution since it was first launched in 2023 and even since it was last profiled on these pages back in late 2025.

Initiatives include executive mentoring through Trans in the City – the UK-based organisation founded by LGBTQ+ advocate Bobbi Pickard – which helps businesses create environments where all employees feel safe and supported.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

M210762

M213428

Choose the

perfect pair

Now available in Booker in 500ml format

*Source: Circana (UK) Ltd, All Outlets, UK, San Pellegrino Plain Sparkling Glass Water Products, Unit Sales, 52 WE 24 Jan 2026. †Calculation Based On: Total Units Sold Per Year/ 365 Days in Year/ 24 Hours per Day / 60 Minutes per Hour/ 60 Seconds per Minute = Total Units Sold per Second ®Reg Trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

BOOKER COLLEAGUE NETWORKS w UPDATE

The Network has also strengthened its approach to gathering feedback – enabling it to better understand colleague experiences and prioritise the actions that will have the greatest impact. Feedback gathered from colleagues has also led to the creation of a cross-functional working group focused on identifying and prioritising areas for improvement across the business. The Network has also strengthened the involvement of senior leaders within it, ensuring that LGBTQ+ inclusion remains a visible priority and that colleagues have advocates at every level of the organisation. However, one of the biggest learnings the Network has made is just how valuable listening can be. Conversations held at Pride events and ongoing colleague engagement revealed that colleagues wanted practical ways to celebrate and support LGBTQ+ inclusion in their own locations.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

THE LGBTQ+ AT BOOKER COLLEAGUE NETWORK Created in 2023, LGBTQ+ at Booker has the overriding aim of making sure that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels welcome at Booker and that Booker is a place where all LGBTQ+ colleagues can thrive. Run by members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, the Network offers a dedicated space for LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies to come together, share experiences and learn from each other.

BOOKER COLLEAGUE NETWORKS w UPDATE

So what are those priorities? Above all, LGBTQ+ at Booker’s driving ambition is to continue creating an environment where every colleague feels safe, respected and able to bring their whole self to work – building on its strong foundations and ensuring that LGBTQ+ inclusion becomes increasingly embedded in the business’s culture, leadership and ways of working. Increasing visibility, strengthening allyship and providing opportunities for colleagues to learn from one another also remain key. And with a packed schedule of activity designed to connect colleagues from across the business coming up, they will certainly have a great many opportunities to do just that.

This directly influenced the development of the Network’s ‘Pride in a Box’ initiative, which provides Pride resources, flags, decorations and educational materials to branches and distribution centres across the Booker network. The incredibly well-received initiative, which was expanded again in 2026, enables local teams to celebrate Pride in ways that feel meaningful to them – while raising awareness of why Pride remains important today. Listening has also enabled the Network to learn that while awareness is important, colleagues increasingly want to see tangible action. As such, by combining colleague feedback with insights from the UN Gap Analysis Tool, it’s been able to move beyond discussion and into developing clearer priorities for the future.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Planned activity for the months ahead includes support for important awareness dates, such as Bi Visibility Day, World AIDS Day, LGBTQ+ History Month and Lesbian Visibility Day. LGBTQ+ at Booker will also continue to collaborate with Booker’s other Colleague Networks and with Tesco Group to share learnings, make LGBTQ+ voices heard and ensure that allyship continues to grow across the business. Doing this will help to ensure that inclusion remains everyone’s responsibility. Because meaningful change only really happens when colleagues, networks and leaders all work together to create a culture where people can thrive – and everyone feels that they belong.

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BOOKER COLLEAGUE NETWORKS w UPDATE

EVENTS TO BE PROUD OF

One of LGBTQ+ at Booker’s standout moments was its Pride event in London on 4 July 2026, which brought together more than 200 colleagues from across Booker. The event celebrated Pride as both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of visibility, inclusion, mental wellbeing and identity. Importantly, it also gave colleagues the opportunity to share their lived experiences and ideas on how Booker could further support LGBTQ+ colleagues. These discussions became a valuable source of insight for the Network and wider business. Alongside this, the Network also continued to host its learning and awareness sessions – covering topics such as intersectionality, HIV awareness and Trans+ inclusion. Other proud highlights included a virtual fireside chat with LGBTQ+ advocate Bobbi Pickard and its continued support of mentoring opportunities through Trans in the City – helping senior leaders to strengthen their understanding and allyship.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 99 2026

Booker’s fab four Colleague Networks are open to all and include:    

The Gender Equality Network Race and Ethnicity at Booker LGBTQ+ at Booker Disability at Booker