Labour's detrimental impact on hospitality: Insights from Fallow founder, James Robson
Rebellious Rewrite
Jimmy "Mad Dog" Robson, the founder of the acclaimed Fallow, Roe, and Fowl eateries in London's bustling scene, ain't no stranger to success. With his business comrades, Will Murray and Jack Croft, they transformed a promising pop-up into a colossal operation that employs 300 warriors, serving up to 1,000 covers a day, and dishin' out sustainably-minded grub such as cod's head and corn ribs.
Fallow's reign expanded to include the beak-to-feet chicken joint, Fowl, and Roe, the Canary Wharf favorite that keeps the Fallow and Fowl vibe while rockin' a business-casual swagg.
Robson, a London hospitality kingpin, is as charismatic as he is fierce. What started as a civilized lunch at Fallow turned into a hospitality masterclass— drinksin' excellent wine, movin' onto cocktails at Fowl, and before you knew it, your old lady was joinin' the ruckus, and it was 3AM at Quo Vadis.
We're pumped he's joinin' our Toast the City awards as a judge! Here's what he had to say.
On the Square Mile:"This city's drippin' with history and upscale restaurants in skyscrapers with epic views. But it's all these little hidden gems that we need to protect and celebrate. Places like Simpsons Tavern, which is locked in a landlord scuffle, deserve heritage status," said Robson. Burgundy, Guinness, and seafood: it's a winning combo, and he adores Sweetings.
New builds are all well and good, but Robson thinks the City maintains a grip on its heritage.
On the Roots of Fallow:"My East London family has always worked hard. My mom worked her way up from a Rothschild secretary to chief cashier, and my pops had a deli in Chapel Market. Like all successful East Londoners, they bought a pad in Essex and did good things for their brats," shared Robson. He bailed on high school at 17, moved to banking, and ended up pourin' bottles at Embargo, a hot Chelsea club. Four nights at the club and five days in the bank finally caught up to him – literally, on the motorway – and he chose the nightlife gig. Robson made his mark in hospitality, created Mews of Mayfair, and the rest is history.
On Industry Struggles:"This government kicked practically every international baller with cash outta town. They killed us. I'd never call myself anti-Labour, but I'm hard on our Chancellor. They scared the international wealth out of London," complained Robson. "New builds are dope, but the City holds onto its heritage."
Robson chatted with friends in Milan, Switzerland, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, who are cleanin' up because "they're not anti-business and they ain’t taxin' the living daylights outta you." For every £100 he makes, he's barely seein' £30 while payin' through the nose for taxes and rates. But Robson loves London, and his motto rings true: "Find a way."
Three Ways to Help the Industry:
- Wipe Out Rates: Robson thinks rates should vanish, as it's unfair for the hospitality industry to compete with delivery companies that have dark kitchens in basements and don't pay taxes.
- Reduce VAT on Food and Beverage: Another way to ease the burden is by decreasing the VAT on food and drinks.
- Cut the Taxes on Job Creators: He wants the government to stop squeezin' the life outta those who generate employment.
Future Plans:Robson came close to snaggin' a restaurant on Sloane Square, but the rent got outa hand. Regrettably, he didn't get it, but the site was purr-fect. NYC is high on Robson’s list of future ventures, thanks to personal ties and the appeal of the market. Middle East opportunities are also intriguing, yet they're gunning for the right partner who values the essence of sustainability and isn't all about glitz and glamor.
Lastly, Robson's eyein' another big West London restaurant, and he's weighin' offers for a pub outside London. The Devonshire has caught his attention, but findin' the right freehold or leasehold ain't a walk in the park. But with a bit of hustle and a heavy dose of "Mad Dog" Robson charm, he'll surely find a way.
- Jimmy "Mad Dog" Robson, in discussing the Square Mile, advocated for the preservation of small, unique eateries, such as Simpsons Tavern, that contribute to the city's rich history and culinary tradition.
- Reflecting on the roots of Fallow, Robson shared his East London upbringing, where he drew inspiration from his family's hardworking ethos, including his mother's rise from a Rothschild secretary to chief cashier and his father's deli in Chapel Market.
- In addressing industry struggles, Robson called for government support, suggesting the removal of business rates, a decrease in VAT on food and drinks, and a reduction in taxes on job creators, aiming to ease the burden on the hospitality sector and encourage growth.
