Welcome to our new series Coffee with...
Each month we'll be sitting down and having a coffee with a member of the Fleurets team so you can get to know them just a little bit better!
First up is James Davies, Director and Head of National Agency.
- How has your week been?
Even busier than normal - it was Fleurets' year-end so trying to make sure the planned fees were invoiced by the end of the month whilst also planning for the new
financial year. - What is your role at Fleurets?
I have a national responsibility for agency services at Fleurets which means ensuring we provide the highest possible service level to both our operator and investor clients as well as internal communication between the agency teams - in truth we all have this responsibility, I just manage the process. - Favourite pub/bar to drink at?
The Guinea Grill in Mayfair - it is a "proper pub" as well as the finest steaks in London or Skully's Restaurant if feeling more adventurous! - What has been the highlight of your career at Fleurets
so far?
Might sound cheesy but watching the team grow and continue to be successful in very competitive markets. - Your final meal?
Porterhouse steak from the Guinea Grill and unlimited access to their wine cellar. - How has the industry changed since you started
at Fleurets?
The biggest changes in the last 20 years (!!) have been the rapid growth of the fast casual dining brands and the unbelievable rise in the standards of both service and product in all sectors. We have such an incredible number of entrepreneurs and innovators in this country who continue to raise the bar to the benefit of us, the customers! - What's your idea of a perfect Sunday?
Morning golf, Sunday lunch with my family, dog walk and a Liverpool win please. - Favourite thing about working at Fleurets?
The trust created by working together for a long time and maintaining our highly regarded reputation and a number of clients becoming good friends. - What is your drink of choice and what do you avoid
at all costs?
Depending on mood/weather/company - glass of Albarino, pint of Neck Oil, Hendricks gin and tonic - avoid? Sambuca! - Where do you see the hospitality market in the next
six months?
We are all facing head winds which seem to be compounded in the hospitality sector with rising costs, pressure on customer spend and many worldwide economic factors which all have a knock on effect to consumer spend. That said, it has proved itself to be the most resilient industry and we continue to see significant investment so the future is still bright but many operators will take a more cautious approach until the world is calmer and confidence returns.
