The top 5 stories in hospitality this week 09/01 - 13/01

Who will be the next Ed's Easy Diner?​

Property firm Christie & Co has warned that more than one established chain​ restaurant group could fail in 2017 due to the rising cost of sites. According to a company report restaurant prices rose by 14 per cent in 2016, while the cost of pub sites was up 4 per cent.

Bed tax nightmare​

Proposals to introduce a 'bed tax' on hotels in Bath to counter £37m of local council cuts have been heavily criticised by industry​. The British Hospitality Association (BHA) warned that such a levy would be 'hugely detrimental' to businesses and damage the tourist economy of the area.

Bluebird spreads its wings​

D&D London is to open a second site of its Chelsea restaurant Bluebird​ at the former BBC Television Centre building in London. The group, which said it had been approached 'countless' times to expand, will launch a 5,000 sq.ft cafe, bar and deli later this year.

Accor goes for Gen Y​

AccorHotels has reaffirmed its aim to develop its millennial-targeted brands by appointing former Club Med North America CEO Cedric Gobillard to head up a new lifestyle division​. He will oversee Accor's upcoming Jo&Joe brand and the company's stakes in Germany's 25hours Hotels and French firm Mama Shelter. 

Exciting new opening​

Former Burnt Truffle chef James Allcock is to launch his first solo restaurant The Pig & Whistle​ in Beverley, Yorkshire, later this year. Allcock - who helped put 1884 Dock Street Kitchen in the Michelin Guide - said the restaurant would be a 'pint-sized' neighbourhood bistro serving small plates, cheese boards and British charcuterie.

For a full rundown of this week's news click here.​