Miscellaneous

🍺 Elliot Nelson launched McNellie’s Pub in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2004, transforming a modest dining scene into a vibrant hub with over 100 venues. By 2025, McNellie’s Group operates 18 concepts across 25+ locations, soon expanding further in Oklahoma City with Malfi Enoteca and Bar Serra. The group's reach extends to Arkansas and eyes Dallas for future growth, driven by local demand and lower operational costs. Nelson received a James Beard Award Semifinalist nod in 2025.

🎮 Chuck E. Cheese, celebrating nearly 50 years, launches "Chuck’s Arcade" for adults and lifelong fans, blending retro and modern gaming experiences. Locations are open in 10 locations across eight states, including Kansas City, Missouri, featuring unique artwork and a full menu. Expect iconic games like Ms. Pac-Man and new ones, overseen by animatronic characters. Exclusive merchandise is available, making each visit special. CEO David McKillips emphasizes the expansion as a tribute to Chuck E. Cheese's legacy.

🎲 Chuck E. Cheese launched 10 Chuck's Arcade locations across eight states, including Kansas City, Missouri, as it nears its 50th anniversary. These arcades blend modern and retro games like Ms. Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, with animatronic characters overseeing each venue. Locations include St. Petersburg, Trumbull, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Victor, Buford, El Paso, Nashua, Salem, and St. Louis. This new concept targets adults with nostalgic ties and features unique game lineups and retro-themed merchandise.

📅 HR in Travel launched by Best Workplaces in Travel, founded by Gail Kenny, on July 7. The group targets HR professionals in the travel industry. Key founders include Jo Harley, Nicky Lyle, Leah Spence, Claire Steiner, Rebecca Thornley-Gibson, Danny Waine, and Victoria Wilson. The first meeting occurs on September 4 at Grant Thornton offices, London. It offers a membership directory and a confidential platform to share best practices, aiming to elevate HR's role in the industry's growth.

🛫 According to Statista, the travel and tourism market is expected to reach $1,063 billion by 2028. The global hotel and accommodation sector is projected to hit $1,453.44 billion by 2031. Virgin Galactic aims to offer commercial space flights soon. The travel industry includes sectors like transportation, accommodation, food and beverage, entertainment, and related services. Financial services, travel agents, and online travel agencies also play significant roles in supporting travelers' needs.

🦬 In June, Selune, an oyster bar, opened in Brooklyn, featuring Utah Beach oysters. Oyster mentions on menus rose by 11.9% last year. Chef Aaron Juvera, Texas' first certified oyster master, highlights oysters' environmental benefits, filtering up to 50 gallons of water daily. Texas oysters take 18-36 months to mature. Boston restaurants offer $1 oysters as a happy hour alternative. In 2023, the Oyster Master Guild launched a certification program, expanding oyster expertise.

📈 LinkedIn offers a seamless registration and login experience with options for personalized security verification. The platform supports multiple social join options and integration features like Google GSI and Time Stone, enhancing user accessibility. Log in via https://www.linkedin.com to access personalized professional networking tools. For business page creation, LinkedIn provides guidance through a dedicated help section. Already a member? Sign in to stay connected with your network.

🍴 Chef Yannick Alléno, with 17 Michelin stars, introduces Battuta at Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, Mayfair, from July 1 to September 30, 2025. Inspired by explorer Ibn Battuta, the menu features Middle Eastern, Asian, and North African flavors. Highlights include grilled meats, seafood, samosas, and kadaifi dessert. Open noon to midnight daily, the pop-up is a culinary journey celebrating sustainability and cultural fusion. Bookings via OpenTable.

🍷 DropWorks, a British rum distillery, launched in 2023, debuted its Clear Drop Rum in Mildreds and mallow restaurants across seven London locations. In 2025, they introduced a Coconut Daiquiri cocktail at mallow, featuring Clear Drop Rum, falernum, coconut, pandan, and citrus. Founder Lewis Hayes, with 20 years in the industry, praised the partnership. Based in Sherwood Forest, DropWorks is expanding across the UK, including Manchester and Liverpool, and aims to enhance the British rum industry.