1. Hewitt & Walker

Based in York

Hewitt & Walker is a York-based video production company established in 2014. They describe their work as combining strong creative ideas with clear strategic purpose, and their portfolio reflects that ambition – spanning brand films, corporate video, animation, heritage storytelling, and educational content.

What stands out about Hewitt & Walker is the breadth of their client roster alongside the specificity of their niche work. On the commercial side, they’ve produced content for brands including Mercedes-Benz, Adidas, Just Eat, and Whitby Gin. On the heritage and tourism side, they’ve worked with English Heritage, York Minster, the North York Moors National Park, the National Railway Museum, and Visit York – a strong indication of genuine expertise in that sector, which is a niche that demands a particular sensitivity and understanding of the audience.

Their video production services in Yorkshire cover the full production pipeline: creative development, scriptwriting, storyboarding, filming, editing, animation, and post-production delivery across digital, broadcast, and social platforms. They also carry television production credits, having contributed cinematography and post-production work to BBC Three’s Brickies.

Animation is an area they appear to invest in seriously, with a dedicated animation showreel and projects for clients including BT, What3Words, and the University of York.

Their studio is based at the York Eco Business Centre, and they describe themselves as working with “bold startups and global names” – language that’s a fair summary of what their portfolio actually shows. For businesses based in or around Yorkshire, particularly those with heritage, tourism, or public sector angles, Hewitt & Walker is a production company worth shortlisting.

2. Inkblot Films

Based in York

Inkblot Films is another York-based studio, founded in 2011 and built around a distinctly creative, community-oriented philosophy. They describe themselves as working in partnership with agencies and marketing professionals, and their focus on what they call “unconventional lenses” – interpreting briefs through an artistic background rather than a purely commercial one – gives their work a particular character.

The Inkblot team has worked with clients including Amazon and the JORVIK Viking Centre, alongside arts organisations. Their case studies include work on videos, stop-motion animation, corporate films, and heritage content. They also produce short films alongside their commercial output, which reflects the breadth of their interests.

Services include creative video production, animated video production, and short film work. Their background in arts and community projects is evident in the kind of briefs they’re drawn to, and if your project calls for something visually distinctive rather than conventionally polished, they’re worth a conversation.

3. Seven Video Productions

Based in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire

Seven Video Productions was started by three brothers – Joe, Paul, and William Sherwood – originally out of a York basement, and has grown into a full production team operating from Tadcaster Enterprise Park in North Yorkshire. Their stated focus is on crafted, high-impact video content: case studies, event coverage, and internal communications are described as their core strengths.

Their client list includes some notable names – Heineken, CityFibre, First Bus, KP Snacks – and testimonials on their website come from senior communications and marketing managers at those organisations. The company positions itself as particularly strong on case studies, with a clear methodology around turning client success stories into new business tools.

The team includes dedicated roles across creative direction, video direction, production, editing, and client success management, which suggests a structured operation rather than a small generalist outfit. For businesses looking for case study or internal comms video work with Yorkshire roots but national reach, Seven is a company that comes up in the conversation.

4. Nova Studios

Based in Hull, East Yorkshire

Nova Studios describes itself as an award-winning, independent, full-service film production company. Based at 10 Ella Street in Hull, they operate across commercial, arts, tourism and heritage, education, content marketing, scripted, and campaign and TV ad categories – a broad scope that reflects a well-resourced in-house crew.

Their positioning centres on story: they describe their approach as “we look, we listen, we tell stories” – which aligns with their client base in schools and universities, museums and galleries, civil engineering, arts organisations, charities, and local authorities. They’ve also produced content in partnership with the Yorkshire Post.

Nova is transparent about their capabilities – they describe an experienced in-house crew that plans, directs, shoots, edits, and grades every frame, and emphasizes delivering work on time and on budget. For organisations in Hull or East Yorkshire, or those working in the heritage, education, or public sector space, Nova Studios has a solid track record and a wide range of output.

5. Reel Film

Based in Wetherby, West Yorkshire

Reel Film is an award-winning video production and animation company based in Wetherby, founded by Adam Chandler. They’ve built a substantial body of work across the UK and Europe, covering sectors including manufacturing, technology, tourism, healthcare, education, and charity.

Their in-house team spans producers, editors, camera operators, motion designers, and drone pilots, handling everything from 2D and 3D animation and motion graphics to live-action brand films, event coverage, internal communications, and mini-documentaries. They describe over 80% of their work as coming from repeat clients or recommendations – a figure that speaks to the consistency of their delivery.

Award recognition includes a Best Small Business national award. Recent work includes an animated charity film for Simon on the Streets, which received a Silver award at the 2025 Charity Film Awards.

For businesses in West Yorkshire and beyond looking for a dependable, full-service production partner with a broad sectoral range and a strong track record, Reel Film is one of the more established names in the region.

How to Choose a Video Production Company in Yorkshire

What this list hopefully demonstrates is that Yorkshire’s video production landscape is genuinely varied. Hewitt & Walker and Inkblot Films both sit in York and bring very different creative characters to similar-sized briefs. Seven Video Productions offers a clear specialism in B2B content. Nova Studios is a strong full-service option for organisations based in Hull and East Yorkshire. Reel Film brings scale, consistency, and a wide sectoral range from their Wetherby base.

The right choice depends almost entirely on what you’re trying to achieve. Portfolio, sector experience, and the working relationship all matter – and the answers to a few common questions are worth thinking through before you reach out to anyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a video production company in Yorkshire?

Start with their portfolio – not just production quality, but whether they’ve worked in your sector or on your type of brief. A company with strong heritage and tourism credits will approach a brand film very differently from one whose background is B2B case studies or corporate communications. Beyond the work itself, it’s worth considering how structured their process is, whether they handle the full pipeline from concept to delivery, and how they approach collaboration. The best working relationships tend to come from companies that ask good questions before they pick up a camera.

Is it worth using a local Yorkshire video production company rather than a national agency?

For many briefs, yes. A Yorkshire-based company will have practical advantages – easier location scouting, lower travel costs, and often a genuine familiarity with the region’s landscape, institutions, and tone. For briefs with a strong local or regional dimension, that knowledge can show in the work. That said, location matters less than fit, and several of the companies on this list work nationally and internationally regardless of where they’re based. The more useful question is whether the company’s creative character matches what you’re trying to make.

How much does video production cost in Yorkshire?

Costs vary considerably depending on the scope, length, and complexity of the project. A straightforward talking-head corporate video will sit at a very different price point from a cinematic brand film with multiple locations, actors, and a full post-production grade. Most reputable companies will provide a tailored quote following an initial conversation, which is worth having before making any assumptions about budget.

Final Thoughts

Yorkshire’s video production scene is in good shape, and the companies on this list are a fair reflection of why – each brings something genuinely different to the table, whether that’s sector expertise, a particular creative sensibility, or simply a strong body of work in the kind of video you need to make.

Take the time to have an honest conversation about what you’re trying to achieve, and don’t be afraid to approach more than one company before committing. The right creative partner makes a real difference to the finished work – and in Yorkshire, there’s no shortage of options worth considering.

Wynn Mayfair — America’s Casino Giant Plants Its Flag in London

When Wynn Resorts acquired the Mayfair property formerly known as Crown London — and before that, the celebrated Aspinall’s — in 2025, it marked the brand’s formal entry into the UK market. The venue retains its private members-only format and operates with approximately 16 gaming tables across its VIP rooms, a deliberately intimate scale that reflects the Mayfair clientele’s preference for exclusivity over volume. Aspinall’s legacy of attracting royalty and serious players has carried through every rebrand, and Wynn’s international prestige only reinforces that heritage. For a global operator known for properties like Wynn Las Vegas and Encore, the small London footprint is less about scale and more about establishing a premium British address.

Grosvenor Casino at Park Tower Knightsbridge — Gaming Meets Five-Star Hospitality

The Park Tower Knightsbridge Hotel offers one of London’s most seamless casino-hotel integrations, with a Grosvenor Casino operating on-site within the property. Guests can move directly from their suite to the gaming floor without stepping outside — a convenience that suits the affluent international traveller for whom a casino visit is a natural leisure option. Grosvenor is one of the UK’s most established casino brands, and its presence in a Knightsbridge five-star context elevates both properties, giving the hotel a rare amenity and giving the casino access to a premium captive audience. The partnership model here is one that other operators across the country are watching closely.

Resorts World Birmingham — The UK’s Closest Answer to an Integrated Resort

Operated by the Genting Group, Resorts World Birmingham is the UK’s first Resorts World-branded property and houses the largest casino in the country. Built near Birmingham as a genuine destination rather than a casino with a car park, the complex combines a full casino with a hotel, spa, shopping outlets, multiple restaurants, and a cinema — the kind of multi-amenity ecosystem more commonly associated with properties in Macau or Singapore. Genting’s global playbook, refined across venues in Malaysia, Singapore, the United States, and the Bahamas, is applied here at a British scale: the formula converts a gaming visit into a full leisure occasion, reducing the reputational friction still attached to standalone casinos and maximising total guest spend across the complex.

London’s Boutique Casino Hotel Landscape

Outside the headline names, London offers a tier of boutique and semi-integrated properties where gaming sits alongside luxury accommodation in arrangements that feel organic. The Bailey’s Hotel London in Kensington, for instance, advertises an on-site casino as part of its guest offering — a practical, well-located option for travellers who want convenient gaming access without the exclusivity barriers of a members-only club. These properties serve a different segment: guests for whom a casino is one option among many rather than the primary reason for the stay. The best top online casinos have also shaped expectations in this space — digitally fluent guests now arrive at physical venues with higher standards around game quality, service responsiveness, and personalised experiences, pushing boutique operators to continuously raise their game.

Wynn Resorts Breaking Into the UK — What the Acquisition Signals

Wynn Resorts’ 2025 Mayfair move carries implications beyond the 16 tables inside that particular building. It demonstrates that UK gaming regulations — while stringent — do not block international ownership, and that London’s most prestigious gaming addresses are acquirable. Other global casino brands that have watched the British market from a distance now have a clearer template for entry. For the domestic market, increased international competition is likely to push service and product standards upward as globally experienced operators bring their hospitality models to venues that have sometimes relied on reputation alone.

Regional Luxury Casino Hotels — Beyond London’s Postcode Premium

Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh are each developing casino amenities within upscale hotel contexts, attracting both domestic high-net-worth travellers and international visitors who previously headed straight for the capital. Regional casino development planners are increasingly sophisticated, commissioning market research, engaging local communities, and designing venues as genuine leisure anchors. The regional market is younger and more open to innovation than London’s, producing a more geographically balanced UK casino hotel landscape than at any previous point in the country’s gaming history.

Public Perception and the Reality of British Luxury Gaming

Luxury casino hotels in the UK are widely perceived as exclusive, discreet, and upscale — markers of class rather than spectacle. The clientele frequenting venues like Wynn Mayfair and the Grosvenor at Park Tower Knightsbridge values privacy over visibility, and the members-only model, quiet entrances, and absence of neon all reinforce that identity. Critics sometimes note that regulatory constraints and modest scale limit dramatic growth, and that British venues cannot compete globally with properties in Macau or Singapore. For the high-net-worth guests and gaming aficionados these venues actually target, however, that boundary is the point — exclusivity requires limits, and the most refined British casino hotels wear theirs with considerable confidence.

Launching on Wednesday 13th May, the menu was developed by Group Executive Chef Mark Askew. It focuses on meticulous sourcing and bold flavours, featuring exclusive partnerships with high-end producers. This includes a bespoke smoked salmon from Severn & Wye and complex, sweet notes from Black Bee Honey, which headlines the new Stracciatella starter.

The menu strikes a balance between reimagined classics and contemporary global flavours. Highlights include:

• Truffled Chicken Kiev: Enriched with wild garlic butter and served with silky mashed potato.
• Roasted Salmon Supreme: Paired with a vibrant pink peppercorn hollandaise.
• Keralan Vegetable Curry: A masterfully spiced, globally inspired plant-based option.
• Dessert Theatre: Featuring classic French Paris-Brest and the iconic Ivy Signature Chocolate Bombe.

Group Executive Chef Mark Askew commented:

“We’re not simply serving dishes; we are creating a genuine sense of occasion. When you cut into the new Truffled Chicken Kiev to reveal the rich wild garlic butter… you understand the intention behind this menu. We’ve worked closely with exceptional suppliers, allowing the quality of the ingredients to speak for itself.”

The Ivy Edition is priced at £34.95 for two courses or £41.95 for three courses, and is available daily for lunch and dinner across selected Ivy Collection restaurants.

Held at Oulton Hall in Leeds, the awards recognised the Goole-based firm for its deep-rooted family ethos and the successful integration of multiple generations within its leadership. Founded in 2000 by Dean Murphy, Salko UK has grown over 25 years from providing a single mechanical fitter at Hatfield Colliery to delivering major engineering solutions for projects like the Woodsmith Mine and Enfield Power Station.

Today, the business benefits from intergenerational leadership; Dean’s daughter, Georgina Wilkinson, serves as Chief Financial Officer, while his son, Gary Murphy, acts as Senior Electrical Lead. This family structure has fostered a unique culture where employees are treated as part of an extended family, resulting in a highly loyal and skilled local workforce.

Dean Murphy, CEO of Salko UK, said:

“We’re pleased to have been recognised for our commitment to family values. Our family ethos extends beyond our immediate family, fostering a work culture where employees feel valued. This approach has enabled us to build a loyal and skilled workforce right here in Goole, providing stability through the ever-changing landscape of our industry.”

Following this regional success, Salko UK will now represent the North at the national finals, set to take place at The Savoy in London.

Research shows that 32% of Gen Z find modern food too complicated, leading to a massive resurgence in “forgotten” staples like liver and onions. This recipe takes that nostalgic flavour and wraps it in a soft, fluffy bao bun for the ultimate fusion feast…

Herb-Marinated Liver Bao with Onion Salad, Chips & Gravy

Ingredients

For the Liver:

• 300g lamb or calf liver, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp butter (for finishing)

For the Onion Salad:

• ½ red or pickled onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sumac
• Small handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Zest of ½ lemon
• Pinch of salt

For the Gravy:

• 1 tbsp butter & 1 tbsp flour
• 200ml beef stock
• Dash of Worcestershire sauce

To Serve:

• 4–6 pre-made bao buns
• Crispy air-fried chips

Method

1. Marinate: Toss the liver slices with thyme and salt. Let them sit for 15–30 minutes to soak up the flavour.
2. Steam & Air-Fry: Place the liver into the Philips Steam & Fry Airfryer. Steam for 7–8 minutes until just cooked through.
3. The Butter Finish: Remove the liver and quickly pan-sear in butter for 1–2 minutes per side until rich and browned.
4. The Sides: Cook your chips at 200°C for 20–25 minutes until golden. While they cook, mix your sliced onion with sumac, parsley, lemon zest, and salt.
5. Steam the Bao: Pop your pre-made bao buns into the airfryer’s steam setting for 3–4 minutes, until cloud-soft.
6. Assemble: Fill each warm bun with the buttery liver and a generous spoonful of the tangy onion salad. Serve with chips and a pot of rich gravy for dipping!

Naturally, this has led locals to make smaller and more careful purchases. This is a smart way to save, but you need to keep an eye on your budget. Over time, and when left unrecorded, repeated “little” purchases can build into much higher costs than most people expect.

This article explores how everyday money choices can add up and the psychological impacts driving this behaviour in Yorkshire and beyond in the UK.

What Everyday Spending Looks Like in Yorkshire Right Now

Every day, money choices in Yorkshire are increasingly shaped by the rising costs. However, while obvious, that’s not the only factor affecting. Convenience and digital payments are also changing the way people spend.

For example, whether it is grabbing a Costa coffee, ordering lunch, paying for parking, or subscribing to apps, small transactions have become a normal part of daily life, and people want to make them in the most convenient way possible (e.g., usually via mobile payment). This is a great innovation, but it can lead to people spending more than they plan to.

Why? Well, these purchases often feel insignificant in the moment, especially if they’re as low as £1 or £2. But they form a consistent pattern of spending that runs the risk of becoming a habit in the long term.

Why Small Purchases Feel Harmless but Build Up Fast

The main reason small spending adds up is a psychological one. As explained above, a small £3 purchase rarely feels like a big financial decision. It’s more of a quick convenience, especially if you never actually trade cash, and instead use your phone.

However, repeated daily spending removes the sense of impact, and a tap becomes just one movement, unless you check your bank regularly afterwards. This isn’t just an in-person spending issue, either. It’s also seen with online shopping or even entertainment, as many people try affordable online services, such as starting with a £3 deposit casino, and then end up spending more than they set out to.

Isobel Coughlan, Online Casino Expert at Mr. Gamble explained that “Low-deposit apps and gambling sites are popping up to meet the demand for small and instant payments. However, we will urge players to be careful when spending money, and you should always check that you play with a legitimate site before depositing.”

Let’s put it into perspective. Over a week or a month, these small costs can grow into a much larger total than expected. £4 per day seems like nothing, until you realise that it adds up to £28 per week, £112 per month, and £1,344 per year.

The Psychology of “Just a Few Pounds” Spending Habits

Throughout Yorkshire and other counties, small spending is often justified through the same reasoning: “it is only a few pounds.” Think back. Have you ever uttered these words?

It’s okay if you have. However, it’s good to note that this mindset reduces hesitation in the moment but also makes it easier to spend frequently in the future, and this may not work with your finances.

Here’s how the psychological process breaks down and what it can actually mean for your bank balance.

Simple Ways People Can Keep Track of Small Daily Costs

So, Yorkshire residents may be at risk of overspending due to convenient small purchases. However, tracking spending does not require major life changes. 

The best ways to do this include, reviewing bank statements weekly, setting banking app limits, drinking food and coffee at home, and grouping small purchases into categories can help build awareness. These habits take time, so set 15 minutes per week to actually put them in place,

And you don’t have to tackle the mountain in one go. Even small adjustments, like reducing one daily habit purchase or reviewing your bank statement, can make a noticeable difference.

Why Small Financial Choices Matter More Than People Think

At the end of the day, the crux of small spending lies with mindfulness. Many of us just do not take notice of our outgoing, as small spending decisions may seem insignificant on their own. However, it is possible to change this in Yorkshire, and beyond!

Known as the “Gateway to the Dales,” our market town is home to a brilliant cluster of independent cafes and restaurants that have become the heart of our community. Whether you’re a fellow local or you’re just visiting to fuel up before a hike, a trip to the Castle, or a wander along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, these are the spots I personally vouch for.

Here is my tried-and-tested guide to the best places for breakfast in Skipton in 2026.

Alexander’s

4 – 6 High Street, Skipton BD23 1EE

Housed in a stunning historic building dating back to 1606, Alexander’s is a true High Street gem. The Edwardian-inspired parlour is easily one of the most beautiful spaces in town to start your morning.

For 2026, their updated Brunch Menu is a global tour of flavours. You can keep it light with freshly made pastries or dive into the “Grand Kedgeree” with curried rice and smoked haddock (£14). Their “House Breakfast” (£16) is the gold standard for a full English, but if you want my personal recommendation for something different, go for the Korean Chicken Waffle (£14) with gochujang glaze.

Phoebe’s

18 Coach Street, Skipton BD23 1LH

Situated in our historic canal quarter, Phoebe’s has quickly become one of the most talked-about spots in town. Phoebe Fisher (who many will remember from the brilliant Elsworth Kitchen) has created a space that is vibrant, relaxed, and consistently excellent.

Their 2026 Brunch Menu is packed with standouts. If you’re hungry, the Steak ‘n’ Eggs (£19.95) features a perfectly cooked onglet steak with chimichurri and tater tots. The Everything Brioche, buttery brioche bun filled with sausage, hash browns, crispy bacon, and a fried egg, is a must-try (£10.95)!

Kibble Bakery & Coffee House

Among Skipton’s array of independent cafes, Kibble Bakery stands out as a uniquely charming spot. Boasting a chic and contemporary interior, it perfectly complements its simple, modern menu featuring no-frills, natural food. What really sets Kibble apart is its completely dog-friendly atmosphere; alongside a fantastic menu for humans, they offer an excellent selection for dogs, with 100% natural treats like homemade ‘pupcakes’ and ‘doggy doughnuts’ baked in their own DEFRA-approved kitchen.

Conveniently located at the bottom of the High Street, it’s an ideal stop for those looking to kickstart a day of sightseeing. Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate their distinctive 50% Colombian and 50% Brazilian blend, especially delightful when paired with a stack of their fluffy pancakes. Whether you’re accompanied by your four-legged companion or not, be sure to add this one to your Skipton itinerary!

Bean Loved

17 Otley St, Skipton BD23 1DY

Bean Loved is hailed by many locals as the go-to spot for the best coffee in Skipton, and considering the competition here, that’s quite a compliment! While their coffee is undeniably exceptional, the culinary offerings are equally delightful. Featuring a menu crafted from the finest locally sourced Yorkshire produce, every dish promises a wonderfully fresh experience.

Start your morning right with their breakfast menu, which features traditional options like the Sausage or Bacon Brioche Bun (£7.50) or Eggs on Toast (£7.00). Visit for brunch (served until 2:30pm), and you can tuck into their famous Smashed Avo & Sweet Chilli Confit Tomatoes (£12.50) or the Korean Fried Chicken. Fancy something sweeter? Their fluffy American Pancakes (£7.50) with maple syrup are a firm favourite with us locals!

Brown Bag Cafe

14–16 Otley Street, Skipton BD23 1DZ

Brown Bag on Otley Street is where sustainability meets quality homemade grub. This isn’t just another coffee shop; it’s an eco-conscious hub designed with recycled and upcycled materials. Their award-winning coffee is ethically sourced to support local farmers, but for me, the real draw is the “Build Your Own Brunch & Breakfast.” It’s an extremely popular format that lets you curate your own perfect plate using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring your carbon footprint is as light as their artisanal bread.

The Flip Side

6 Swadford Street, Skipton BD23 1RD

Did you know that there’s an independent cafe in Skipton that specialises in pancakes? Situated on Swadford Street, The Flip Side serves crepes with all manner of sweet and savoury fillings. Stick to traditional sugar and lemon, satisfy that chocolate craving with Nutella, or opt for a savoury powerhouse like the Brekkie Crepe (£8.50).

If thick and fluffy is more your style, their American-style pancakes are a must – I recommend the Bacon Stack (£8.00) with an extra sausage and egg (50p each). For the kids, the Nutella Dippy Pot (£4.50) is a winner, featuring mini pancakes and strawberries. Not a pancake person? No problem – they’ve recently added all-day breakfast sandwiches to the menu too.

Pro Tip: This place is a family favourite and gets very busy during the school holidays, so I highly recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment!

The Curious Fox

Chapel Hill, Skipton BD23 1NL

A left turn at the top of the High Street and a short stroll will bring you to The Curious Fox – a characterful restaurant at the bottom of Chapel Hill that I always recommend to visitors. While it’s locally famous for its steaks and weekly Tapas nights, this gorgeous restaurant with rooms also offers one of the best morning spreads in town.

The team here has extensive hospitality experience, so both the food and the ambience are consistently spot on. The breakfast menu showcases quality, locally sourced produce. You can start your day with a classic Full English (£12.50) or the Veggie Breakfast (£11.50). For something a bit lighter, the Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs (£9.00) or a simple bowl of Nutty Granola (£7.50) are both excellent choices.

The Dales Cottage Cafe

Albion House, Otley Street, Skipton BD23 1ED

Tucked away and traditional, Dales Cottage has been a staple in our town for 25 years for a reason: hearty, home-cooked food and a welcome that makes you feel like family. If you want something wholesome that’s easy on the wallet, this is your spot.

Their 2026 menu is as honest and satisfying as ever. For the big appetites, there’s the Large Breakfast (£11.50) or the Standard Breakfast (£9.50), packed with all the expected components: bacon, sausage, egg, black pudding, beans, and toast. If you’re in a rush, their Breakfast Sandwiches (starting at £4.75) are legendary. They also do a great range of poached eggs on English muffins if you’re after something slightly lighter but still filling.

Visiting Skipton and haven’t planned how you’ll spend your time yet? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Skipton 2026.

Work With Us

As with all our guides, we’ll continue to update this list as our town’s food scene evolves. To recommend a venue, request a featured listing or enquire about other advertising options in the “UK’s Happiest Town,” please email business@theyorkshirepress.co.uk.

The restructure followed the closure of Veeno’s Chester site, which was deemed unviable due to structural building issues and an ongoing landlord dispute. Caruso was quick to clarify that the challenges in Chester were site-specific and do not reflect the health of the wider group, particularly in Leeds, which continues to go from “strength to strength.”

The brand’s new direction moves away from a “chain” feel, refocusing on its Sicilian heritage and authentic Italian hospitality. A major part of this reset involves a greater emphasis on wines sourced directly from Caruso’s family vineyard in Sicily, which was established by his great-grandfather.

Nino Caruso, Founder of Veeno, said:

“It is business as usual at Veeno Leeds. Over time, we felt the business was beginning to be perceived as a chain, and that’s something we want to move away from. Our focus now is on our heritage, our roots, and delivering a simpler, more authentic offering that reflects our Sicilian identity. I’m stepping back into a more active role so we can return to what Veeno has always been about – authentic hospitality and exceptional wines.”

Guests at the Leeds site can expect a refreshed experience, including new organic and small-batch wine additions and a streamlined food menu designed to pair perfectly with the Sicilian labels. Caruso assured partners and staff that all suppliers remain in place and that the restructure has effectively “future-proofed” the business.

The space, which previously operated primarily as a pre-show area, has undergone an ambitious transformation. It will now be open from midday until late, Wednesday through Sunday, offering a relaxed social space for coffee, cocktails, and craft beers, including a rotating selection from local favourites like Kirkstall Brewery.

Yuzu Street Food, inspired by a 2019 culinary tour of Asia, will serve up its signature contemporary menu of bao buns, ramen, katsu curry, and fried chicken. The partnership cements HAR bar’s position as a key destination in the thriving New Briggate area.

Michael Wilkinson, Director of Strategy and Commercial, said:

“We are very excited to be welcoming Yuzu to HAR bar. Their Asian-inspired street food is the perfect accompaniment to our range of drinks, firmly establishing us as one of Leeds’ leading spots to meet and eat. We want everyone in the city to feel that this is their space, where great music and exceptional service combine to support Opera North’s outreach work.”

Chris Hargroves, Yuzu Founder & CEO, added:

“We’re delighted to be back in Leeds city centre! Returning really feels like coming home. Working with such a prestigious venue as the Howard Assembly Room is something we’re absolutely buzzing about and we can’t wait to fire up the woks!”

Rooted in research by renowned food scientist Charles Spence, the soundproof, darkened booth isolates the snacker from the outside world to heighten taste perception. By suppressing auditory distractions, which Spence notes can mask sweet and salty notes, the mind is forced to focus entirely on the palate.

Inside the booth, guests are guided through a curated audio-visual journey to experience the new Chicken Royale and Bacon Double Cheese XL limited-edition Pringles. The experience is designed to reveal the flavour profile in layers: for the Chicken Royale, it begins with savoury mayonnaise and sweet bun notes, peaks with intense chicken and lettuce profiles, and finishes with a subtle return of sweetness.

Charles Spence, food scientist and flavour expert, explained:

“Scientific research has highlighted that suppressing senses like sound can actually enhance the tasting experience. Noise suppresses our ability to perceive sweet and salty flavours, so if you remove any auditory distractions, you’re likely to experience a heightened experience of flavour, because your mind focuses more fixatedly on the food in front of you.”

For those who can’t visit the booth, the new flavours are now available across major UK retailers, including Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Tesco. Even better, the collaboration includes a buy-one-get-one-free (BOGOF) offer: shoppers can scan the QR code on their Pringles tube to redeem a free Chicken Royale or Bacon Double Cheese XL at participating Burger King® UK restaurants.