The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS)

Over 30 years supporting independent food businesses. Thousands of members trust us to keep them safe, legal, and profitable. Follow us on Instagram @ncass_uk

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

NCASS believe that businesses are facing a cost of operating crisis and are working tirelessly to make the case to all parties and government on behalf of members.

We need your feedback to act to #empowerindependents. Find out more here:
https://t.co/WbxcUBQRLd

[Southside District Birmingham @SouthsideDist]

🚚 Big news for food lovers! 36 West Midlands street food businesses will get free training, mentoring & live trading opps via Mayor Richard Parker’s new Street Food Incubator, delivered by @WestMids_CA, @DigbethDiner & @NCASS_UK 🌮🔥 Apply now 👉 https://t.co/UhoWORPq0S

[Discover Twickenham BID @DiscoverTwick]

This #IndependentHospitalityWeek we're proud to support the brilliant independent hospitality businesses that give our town its unique flavour. From family-run cafés & bistros to pubs & street food gems, these are the places that keep #Twickenham buzzing. #chooseindependent

[Gurt Wings @GurtWings]

CHOOSE INDEPENDENT 🐔🐔🐔

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

What does it really take to start and grow an independent hospitality business? In this episode, we chat with three legends of Birmingham’s food and drink scene — Jack Brabant (@DigbethDiner.), Tom Maher (Original Patty Men), and Henry Poultney (Grace + James).

Whether you’re running a business, starting one, or just passionate about great food — this is the episode for you.
https://t.co/c6QRhIHzhW #IndependentHospitalityWeek

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

It’s Independent Hospitality Week from the 5th – 11th of May.

Independent Hospitality businesses work hard in a challenging economy to open their doors, hatches and hearts to customers every day and bring their brand of hospitality to high streets, events and venues across the country.

These businesses need a boost. We want to make as much noise as possible about how important these wonderful food and drink businesses are, putting the hard-working entrepreneurs who make up the backbone of the UK everyday economy in the spotlight.

From the 5th – 11th of May, join us in celebrating the independent sector. We want you to choose independent over big business this Independent Hospitality Week.

Whether you’re an indie business or someone who loves indies, this is your chance to share why independents in the hospitality sector are so important.
- Share the campaign
- Show you are proud to be an independent business
- Shout about why independents are so important
- Celebrate the independents you love
- Choose Independent
#empowerindependents #chooseindependent #IHW #indendenthospitalityweek

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

In response to the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves Spring Statement today, Alan Fox, Chief Executive of NCASS said:

‘We are disappointed, but not surprised that the Chancellor has offered no supportive measures to help small hospitality and catering businesses across the country.

We believe there is a lack of understanding of the independent hospitality sector across government and that the interests of small and micro businesses that make up the everyday economy are overlooked.

The health of our high streets, local neighbourhoods and the growth and regeneration of the everyday economy hinge on a thriving hospitality sector.  Hardworking and entrepreneurial small businesses that operate at the heart of their communities continue to be ignored at the risk of hollowing out the very fabric of our communities and cultural economy.

NCASS will continue to fight for the interests of small hospitality and catering businesses.  Now, more than ever we must support independent hospitality businesses. That is why we have organised Independent Hospitality Week is a nationwide campaign designed to champion independent and family run bars, cafes, restaurants, pubs, street food vendors, and event traders that enrich local communities with their unique brands of hospitality.’

From the 5th to 11th May 2025, we’re asking people to come together and shout about how much their independent hospitality venues, mobile caterers and street food traders mean to them by eating local, drinking local and supporting independent hospitality venues during Independent Hospitality Week. 

Please help us to raise the profile of these vital businesses who contribute so much to value to our communities.
You can find out more about Independent Hospitality Week and how you can support the campaign on our website https://t.co/zJBUGsTaSB

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

With February imminent, the festival and events season isn't too far off. It's so important to give yourself the best chance of securing a spot with every application you send, but also to be sure of the deal you're walking into.

With our Golden Rules for Tendering at Events and Festivals, we walk through some critical points bound to help you get your applications in the best shape.

Look out for our podcast episode dealing with applying for events coming soon..

https://t.co/WCBRkZ8htP

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

EHO inspection coming up? Not sure what to expect or how best to prepare? Worry not - NCASS has you covered.
During an inspection the EHO will work in accordance with the Food Law Code of Practice and Food Law Practice Guidance. Their aim is to make sure that you are meeting legal food hygiene and safety requirements and that the food you are producing or selling is safe for consumers to eat.
The EHO will talk to you and your staff about the practices and procedures that you use to manage food safety, they will look at your food safety documentation and also examine the structure and cleanliness of your premises. During the course of the inspection, the EHO may take photographs, samples or swabs and if they do, they should explain to you why they are doing this. They should provide you with a summary of their findings, including clear instructions on any legal contraventions detailing what is wrong or why it is wrong and what you need to do to put it right.
Click the link below to read more and help you best prepare:
https://t.co/hZA895qfUH

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

NCASS recently met with Small Business Minister Gareth Thomas MP in Parliament to discuss support for independent hospitality businesses across the UK.

We need the Government to better understand the huge challenges faced by micro and small businesses in our sector. The need for reform in the way VAT is levied was discussed, as well as how real change through a smoothing mechanism and revision of the VAT threshold could stimulate growth in the sector and support small businesses in particular.

Following the disappointing Budget announcement last year, NCASS Director Mark Laurie emphasised the importance of listening to the needs of small and micro businesses who are the entrepreneurs who drive innovation across the hospitality sector and who are often the catalysts for improving our town centres and high streets.

NCASS continues to meet with MPs and elected representatives across the UK. If you are interested in meeting with your local MP to discuss issues affecting your business then please get in touch with our Public Affairs team at [email protected].

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

Oatopia is no simple food business. On a mission to pack a healthy and nutritious punch into every flapjack they produce, Oatopia have found their oat-based crusade proudly displayed on retail supermarket shelves across the country.
Proving that snack foods can be a healthy implement as well as tasting amazing, they have racked up multiple Great Taste Awards and still attend a full calendar of festivals and events with the Oatopia van serving up goodness.

We were curious to find out just what makes this operation tick:
https://t.co/QhQm23qgzy

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

Get ready for the 2025 UK Food & Drink shows, where innovation, inspiration and expertise come together in one place.
Food & Drink Expo, incorporating The Restaurant Show, takes place 7th – 9th April at the NEC, Birmingham and runs alongside Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show and Foodex Manufacturing solutions. One free ticket will provide visitors with access to all four shows.
https://t.co/DKfzcBOMpA

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

Festival stalwarts That’s Nacho Burrito have brought their vibrant brand of Mexican street food to countless hungry mouths over the years they’ve been in business.
The partner-run venture are passionate about being able to provide accessible options to customers without having to sacrifice flavour or taste – foremost components in Mexican cuisine.

We spoke to them to find out more about That’s Nacho Burrito:
https://t.co/JB7Wfy9T2d

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

Merry Christmas and a happy new year from NCASS! We hope everyone has a nice festive period!
The NCASS office will not be open for normal hours during the Christmas break, however, our teams are available to support members from 9am - 1pm on the following dates via phone or email.
Monday 23rd December
Tuesday 24th December
Friday 27th December
Monday 30th December
Tuesday 31st December
You can contact us via 0300 124 6866 or email [email protected]

[Al Carns @AlistairCarns]

It was great to meet last week with representatives from @NCASS_UK (Nationwide Caterers Association), which is the trade association for the independent hospitality sector.

We discussed issues affecting their members, as well as how we can work together to champion independent hospitality businesses across Birmingham. Stirchley in particular is a fantastic example of how independent hospitality businesses have driven forward growth and have contributed positively to place making.

Thanks to representatives from local businesses Chancers Cafe, @corkncage, and Couch Stirchley who provided me with an overview of the state of independent hospitality locally. These guys have my full support. We’re blessed with a number of small and independent hospitality businesses that enrich our community and help our local economy, and it’s so important that we support them throughout the year.

We’ve seen some big hitters in the Birmingham hospitality scene close their doors this year, and we really must use them before we lose them.

#sellyoak #stirchley #independenthospitality #growth #placemaking #community #localeconomy

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

A traditional Caribbean seasoning blend, which for the first time helps families to easily bring the unique flavours of Jamaica to the dinner table, has been recognised as one of the best in the UK.

Seasoned spice blends by Dattie’s Soul Food Academy, in Burton, are handcrafted by mother-of-six Monica Holton to infuse dishes with all the flavours of the Caribbean in one handy packet.

Find out more:
https://t.co/VcJ1a3OPuP

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

The latest episode of the NCASS podcast is live now - listen as we sit down with KitStart to discuss the importance of a website for an independent business: https://t.co/NUskR8SGhi

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

‘Twas the last few nights before Christmas, when all through NCASS House, not a creature was stirring…except, for a jolly little sprout.
Tinkering away, making gifts galore, this cheeky lil green sprout has special gifts to ship out the door.
Meet Russell Sprout!
Our larger-than-life festive mascot is here to sprinkle some good will and fortune on three lucky people this winter season. Our new friend has joined the NCASS team with a very important task to complete; to bring competition cheer & top tips for trading over the Christmas season. https://t.co/1dVpaieCon

[NOEA ⚪ @NOEAnews]

🎉 Redwood Event Solutions & Pride Cymru triumph as the Production Partnership of the Year! 🏆💡 Congratulations on this fantastic accomplishment! 👏 Award sponsored by @NCASS_UK

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

NTIA to Host Europe’s Largest Night Time Economy Summit in Birmingham: Taking place at the Hockley Social Club in  Birmingham on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th of February, this landmark event will shine a spotlight on the global night-time economy, uniting industry leaders, innovators, and visionaries from across the world.

https://t.co/stJ5AuCDou

[The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) @NCASS_UK]

@ukevents_org have published their anticipated UK Events Report 2024.

The report, compiled by Great Potential Consultancy, highlights the industry’s critical role in the economy, generating £61.653 billion annually and affirming its resilience following the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://t.co/yMUzRGVpno