Has local MP bitten off more than he can chew with visit to Domino’s?

Published

4 weeks ago

November 25, 2024

Local MP Henry Tufnell may have bitten off more than he can chew after posting pictures of himself serving pizza at the Haverfordwest branch of Domino’s.

The Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire donned the Domino’s baseball cap and apron to dish out the pepperonis in a bid to see how local businesses are thriving.

But what Tufnell may have overlooked is the fact that in November 2024, Domino’s had a market cap of a whopping $15.65 billion USD, which makes it the world’s 1,195th most valuable company by market capitalization.

It trades from over 1,300 outlets in the UK and over 20,500 worldwide.

“I had a fantastic visit to Domino’s in Haverfordwest last week!” the MP enthused in his social media post.

“A big thank you to [the Domino’s staff] for taking the time to show me around and share the incredible work they do.

“It’s inspiring to see local businesses thriving and providing great service to our community’.”

The local community however, believes that Tufnell’s actions may have turned a blind eye to independent businesses – including farmers – who are desperately struggling to keep their heads above water.

“This strikes me as tone deaf,” commented Andy Richardson. “Henry Tufnell has a huge constituency of farmers who are worried sick about the inheritance tax changes which he, as a member of a landowning family, should understand. He also has small, independent, local, non-franchised businesses which are already under the cosh and are now being hit by the Employers’ NIC increases.”

And Donna Humphrey called on the MP to cast his eye across other social sectors instead of multi-international bigwigs like Domino’s.

“If visiting a franchise is a priority for you, rather than local charities, independent businesses, hospitals, education and farming , that says it all,” she said.

“There are so many other pressing issues such as homelessness, food banks, mental health services, accessing GPS, community care, impact of the budget on charities…but sadly you choose pizza.”

Henry Tufnell’s post has also raised the hackles of local, independently-owned pizzeria owners, including world champion chef Giovanni Recchia who runs Gio Recchia Pizzeria in Pembroke with his business partner, Denise Phillips.

“He should have supported all those local businesses which are operating from their communities here in Pembrokeshire,” Denise told The Pembrokeshire Herald.

“So many people are trying their hardest to keep their heads above water. Surely it’s these that should be shown the support and recognition from their MP?

“We are doing everything we can to support our community, and all our staff are local. If Henry Tufnell had chosen to walk through our door, we would have been more than happy to welcome him.”

Giovanni Recchia is recognised as one of the world’s finest pizza chefs after clinching the World Champion Chef title in the championships Rimini, Italy, in 2023.

Domino’s Pizza Group plc said: “We are the UK’s leading pizza brand.”

“The Domino’s business is built on the entrepreneurial drive and operational expertise of our franchise partners.

“We choose our franchise partners carefully for their commitment and entrepreneurial approach.

“Franchise partners sign a Standard Franchise Agreement (SFA) for each store. We work closely with them to choose the right locations. We then enter into the head leases, which we sub-let to the franchisee.

“We charge our franchise partners a royalty fee of their sales, some of which we pass on to Domino’s Pizza International Franchising Inc. as a royalty cost.

“We invest in our digital customer facing platforms, which makes ordering easier, drives higher loyalty, frequency of purchase and increased order values.”

Henry Tufnell MP commented on Monday evening.

He said: “Domino’s locally is owned by a franchisee who owns a store in Haverfordwest, Neyland and Tenby.

“Domino’s owns a franchise model where individual franchisees own Domino’s stores under the large Domino’s Pizza Brand.

“This empowers entrepreneurs to manage their own business.

“The owner of these franchises employs local people in all year round employment and any business that supports workers and helps with high street decline is a positive step in the right direction.”

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

21 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”