Boeing estimates that it will spend $1 billion to fix the 737 Max and has pulled its forecast of 2019 earnings because of the uncertainty surrounding the jetliner.

The estimate was disclosed on Wednesday in a presentation for investors as Boeing released first quarter financial results, which missed Wall Street expectations.

Boeing did not go into detail on the costs of fixing flight-control software, but the disclosure was said to give an indication of the financial damage to the company following two crashes involving the 737 Max.

READ MORE: Boeing cutting production rate of 737 Max jet

A spokesman said the estimate covered higher production costs over the next several years.

Bella Italia and Cafe Rouge owner Casual Dining Group (CDG) has appointed James Spragg as chief executive from April 29.

Mr Spragg replaces Steve Richards, who is leaving the group to head up leisure operator Parkdean Resorts as chief executive.

Mr Spragg is currently chief operating officer of CDG and was previously managing director of Pizza Express.

CDG is one of the largest casual dining restaurant groups in the UK, with nearly 300 sites across the country.

Lager giant Heineken has said stockpiling ahead of Brexit has helped boost UK sales in the first quarter.

The group said it saw a "low-single digit" rise in sales by volume in the UK, "helped by some inventory build-up anticipating Brexit".

Overall group sales of Heineken lifted 8.3% in a "positive start to the year" as the group shrugged off the later timing of Easter.

Sales rose 1.6% across Europe, thanks to better weather across the region. The firm stuck by guidance for a "mid-single digit" rise in operating profits over 2019.