I have been around long enough to remember when a good restaurant could still turn a profit on a 15% food cost and a 25% wage bill. Nearly fifty years in, from scrubbing pans as a young commis to building

Staffing Is Still the Core Issue Many hospitality businesses cannot find the people they need. The issue is not just numbers. It is about skills, experience, and stability. Workers who left during the pandemic or after Brexit have not returned.

In a market where many claim to stand for something, Houston and Hawkes have shown what it really means to operate with purpose. Their 2025 Impact Report is not just a summary of progress. It is a clear example of

At Uncommon Sense, we believe one truth stands above the rest: success is a product of mindset, not circumstance. The phrase “Weakness is a choice, Winning is a mindset” captures something essential. It reminds us that resilience, determination and growth

In business, people often credit success to “luck”. But scratch the surface, and you’ll find something very different. Whether you’re selling consultancy, hospitality, property services or technology, real wins come from a powerful combination of training, planning, preparation, and execution.

 This past week, I had the immense honour of serving as a judge for the Contract Catering Awards 2025—an evening dedicated to celebrating the very best in our industry. Hosted in London, this prestigious event brought together the brightest talents,

Connecting You with the Right Talent to Drive Your Business Forward Due to growing demand from our clients, Uncommon Sense Ltd is excited to introduce tailored recruitment services designed to help businesses connect with exceptional talent. We understand that hiring the

 Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting The Fisheries in Hackney, where I was given a private tour by its founder, Hugo Warner. Just seven minutes from Liverpool Street Station by train, 13 minutes by bicycle, or just over half

In hospitality and facilities management, where success is driven by teamwork, client satisfaction, and operational efficiency, empathy is the hidden ingredient that can help you stand out. It’s not just about being kind—it’s about understanding people, building trust, and creating meaningful connections that

As we step into the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac, it’s worth exploring what this ancient symbol stands for and how its traits resonate with business strategy, leadership, and the philosophy of Uncommon Sense. The Snake in