Baton Berisha swaps D&D London for The Wolseley Hospitality Group after just three months

D&D London announced last night that Berisha, who was previously chief executive of The Ivy Collection, had left the group to 'take up a position as CEO of a rival restaurant group', with The Times​ later reporting​​ that he is set to take the reins of the group formerly known as Corbin & King.

Berisha was only announced as managing director of D&D back in April​​, and took over the role in May, meaning his tenure at the group lasted just three months.

Des Gunewardena, Chairman and CEO of D&D, commented: “Well that was a whirlwind romance!

“We certainly didn’t fall out of love with one another. But Baton was offered a position which he felt he could not refuse. And we understand and respect that. He leaves with our blessing and best wishes.

“Following his departure David Loewi will revert to his role overseeing the group’s operations as COO.”

The news comes as D&D reported that total group revenues were at 90% of pre-Covid levels, and 91% in the UK for the 15 months since reopening post lockdown in April 2021.

Total revenue was the group was £163m for the period to June 2022, with UK revenues of £143m. However, group earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization was above 2019 levels at £17m – 122% above pre-Covid.

The London-based restaurant group said that its earnings benefited from a lower cost base upon reopening after the pandemic.