Casual Dining Commercial Kitchen

MAJOR DRAW

The combined events also saw the introduction of anchor brand, THE Food Shows London with the aim of bringing these three industry leading shows closer together.

On the 14 and 15 September 2022, the co-located food shows became the epicentre of innovation and inspiration for leading chefs and decision makers from pubs, restaurants, foodto-go, coffee shops, retailers and other business professionals across the nation.

Helping to shape the future of the food and drink sector, the events attracted over 8,200 attendees, including senior decision makers from Azzurri Group, BaxterStorey, Big Table Group, Bourne Leisure, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Compass Group, Costa, Dishoom, GAIL’s, Galvin Restaurants, Greene King, Greggs, Hall & Woodhouse, Hilton Hotels, ISS, itsu, John Lewis, KFC, LEON, Liverpool Football Club, M&S, Marstons, McDonalds, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Virgin Atlantic, and more.

Visitors from across the country were able to meet with over 600 exhibitors ranging from food to go, alcohol, drinks, tech, packaging, kitchen design and equipment. As well facilitating important business deals, the three shows featured a comprehensive seminar programme (across eight theatres). Allimportant insights for recovery and growth were shared, as well as inspirational stories and updates from industry leaders.

Chris Brazier, group event director commented: “It was amazing to see so many leading brands within the foodservice and hospitality sector connect with important decision makers, buyers, chefs, and retailers over the two days.

“Innovation was well and truly on the menu. The number of new products on offer was incredible to see...as well as taste and smell! Thank you to our amazing speakers for sharing their inspiring insights across the three events, especially after years of uncertainty and challenges in the industry. And of course, thank you to all our visitors, our exhibitors, partners and associations, we couldn’t have done it without you. We look forward to seeing you again next year on 27 and 28 September.”

OPTIMISM

Business optimism was widespread among visitors, exhibitors, and speakers across the show floor, with many citing the show as the “best” they go to and a “must-attend” for the industry. Many who visited the shows together enjoyed the opportunity to discover even more brands (catering to different business areas) and praised the co-location for a second year.

“Having the three events together is massively important and creates that harmony in the industry. It’s allowed me to think about how we innovate not only from a food perspective but from an equipment perspective which is equally as important for us as a brand, and an integral part of what we do,” said Hannah CaseyBurnett, head of category and wholesale, Greggs.

“lunch! is everything that’s great about hospitality. A place where innovation, conscientious thinking, passion and talent collide. Best. Expo. Ever,” said Emily Hawkley, head of operations, Slim Chickens UK.

“Casual Dining was a fantastic two days in which I saw the best very of our hospitality industry sharing best practice and challenging the status quo. It was fun, focused and educational,” said Gavin Smith, MD, Pizza Pilgrims.

“Amazing to be back at Casual Dining. It’s brilliant to have such an array of high calibre suppliers showcasing their new innovations. Simply the best forum to catch up with existing connections and engage with new ones. We have all had challenges but being able to discuss and discover new opportunities is something that should not be missed. See you next year!” said Andrew Hazel, head of food and beverage development, Boparan Restaurant Group.

“Commercial Kitchen is a must attend event. It has it all and more, there is so much innovation and insight to be gained from attending. A must attend for anyone in the food industry’s diary,” said Nick Vadis, Culinary Director, Compass UK & Ireland.

“lunch! is a great opportunity to see current suppliers and explore potential new ones. Nothing really beats having suppliers full range laid out in front of you, alongside any NPD they might be working on – you never know what you might come across,” said Amanda Lowe, head of innovation, Soho Coffee.

Combined shows draw the plaudits and plan closer association

The UK’s hospitality and foodservice industry gathered at ExCeL London in September for the return of Casual Dining (aimed at the restaurant, pub and bar sector), Commercial Kitchen (aimed at executive chefs and decision makers from professional kitchens) and lunch! (aimed at the café, coffee shop and food to go sector).