Robert Pyle, Partner, EY-Parthenon.

Appointment signals the firm's focus on the evolving foodservice sector as it navigates cost pressures, digital transformation and shifting consumer demands.

EY has named Robert Pyle, a Partner in the EY-Parthenon strategy division, as its new UK&I Restaurant Sector Leader. In this role, Pyle will be responsible for leading the firm's advisory services for clients in the restaurant and out-of-home foodservice market.

The move comes as the UK restaurant industry confronts a complex operating environment. While consumer demand for dining out remains steady, operators are simultaneously managing rising costs, adapting to new consumer expectations, and investing in digital ordering and operational efficiency. Pyle's appointment is positioned to help EY's clients address these challenges and opportunities.

Pyle, who has been with EY since 2007, brings over two decades of experience advising consumer, leisure and retail businesses on strategy, growth and M&A. His work has covered a wide range of foodservice segments, including fine dining, casual dining, quick-service restaurants (QSR), and coffee shops.

As part of his new responsibilities, Pyle will coordinate a cross-functional team, integrating expertise from different service lines within the firm. He will work with leaders such as Trevellyan Collier from Consulting, Andrew Taylor from Tax, and Chris Solomides from Assurance to provide integrated support to clients.

Michael Thompson, EY Global Deputy and UK&I Managing Partner for Consumer and Health Industries, noted that the foodservice sector is undergoing significant structural change. He stated that Pyle's sector knowledge and transaction experience will be valuable for operators and investors planning their next phase of growth.

Pyle commented on the sector's resilience and creativity despite ongoing pressures. He said his focus will be on helping operators, suppliers, and investors adapt to changing consumer behavior, utilize technology, and build more commercially robust businesses for the future.

SOURCE: EY

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