Rare Restaurants has hired Baton Berisha as its new chief executive

Berisha, who was previously CEO at The Wolseley Hospitality Group (TWHG), commences his new role with immediate effect and will lead Rare Restaurants as it prepares to unveil its new food hall, Gaucho Go, at BOXHALL City in London next month.

He replaces Martin Williams, who stepped down from the group in October last year and has since been announced as the new CEO of D&D London. ''I am incredibly honoured to join Rare Restaurants at such a pivotal me for the business," says Berisha. ''The company has historically upheld a strong reputation for excellence and creativity, and I'm excited about the opportunities ahead to build on these solid foundations.

''I look forward to working with the talented team to drive the next phase of growth and innovation while delivering an exceptional experience for our guests."

Berisha left his role as chief executive of TWHG last September after two years with the business.

He joined TWHG, formerly Corbin & King, in August 2022, just a few months after Minor acquired full control of the business following a prolonged and very public battle for ownership with the group's co-founder, Jeremy King.

Subsequently, the group returned to the exP-ansion trail with the opening of Manzi's in Soho and The Wolseley City.

During Berisha's tenure, TWHG also made its international debut with the launch of a Cafe Wolseley pop-up in the Thai capital of Bangkok. ''The shareholders and I are delighted to welcome Baton to the chief executive role at this key point in the company's development," says David Campbell, chair of Rare Restaurants.

''His extensive experience as chief executive of several premium dining brands made him the standout candidate."

Berisha's CV also includes stints as chief executive of The Ivy Collection and managing director at D&D London.

Campbell adds: ''I have had the pleasure of working with Baton at The Ivy Collection and witnessed his skills first­ hand, and we look forward to him joining the Rare team."

Rare Restaurants reported a turnover of £75.1m for the Y.ear ended 31 December 2023, up from £73.5m the previous year, according to Rare Restaurants reported a turnover of

£75.1m for the Y.ear ended 31 December 2023, up from £73.Sm the previous year, according to the latest filings to Companies House for parent company Lomo Topco.

However, the group also saw losses rise amid 'another challenging year for the hospitality industry.'

Pre-tax losses rose from £2.3m to £7.4m over the period. Operating EBITDA for the year was £4.8m, while adjusted EBITDA before opening costs and exceptional items was £9.1m.

The group's estate currently includes 22 restaurants, including 20 Gaucho sites, M Threadneedle Street in London, and The Crane Tap restaurant and bar in Twickenham.