Mandarin Oriental in the red
The Sars epidemic and economic uncertainty have pushed Hong Kong-based hotel group Mandarin Oriental into the red. In the six months to 30 June, the group recorded a pre-tax loss of US$6.1m (£3.7m), compared with a profit of more than $15m (£9.2m) a year earlier. Turnover dropped by 19% to $90.6m (£55.7m), against $111.8m (£68.8m) in 2002. Chairman Simon Keswick said that, although occupancy levels in Asia were beginning to improve, the uncertain economic environment meant it was difficult to predict the timing and extent of any sustained recovery for the group.
Eurest in 10-year army training deal
Eurest Defence Support Services, part of Compass Group, has won a 10-year contract to provide catering to army training facilities across the UK. The deal will turn over a total of £110m during the 10-year period and could be extended for a further five years. Eurest Defence is a subcontractor to Landmarc Support Services, which has just been awarded the £600m facilities management and range operations contract for the Army. The Compass subsidiary will serve up about 7.8 million meals a year at 130 army training sites.
Target banqueting
Have you got an autumn banqueting menu programme that offers innovation rather than the predictable? Caterer's annual look at the busy autumn social season, Target Banqueting, is looking to showcase chefs and conference and banqueting managers who can surprise guests with dinner menus but still meet the price points and production processes of busy banqueting.
To be considered for inclusion of our pick of the best banqueting menus, send a copy of your current or autumn banqueting menus to Emmajane North, Caterer & Hotelkeeper, Quadrant House, The Quadrant, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5AS or e-mail gledhillbo@aol.com.