Edge Magazine.
The eal Belgian coffee
We are now part of Avendra International
Ian Murphy Senior Vice President of Supply Chain & GPO’s Europe Aramark
& Avendra International
We are excited to share some major news with you: we have officially joined Avendra International, a global procurement organisation. Find out more
What’s New
This new organisation will combine Avendra’s robust North American operations with Aramark’s expansive global footprint in 15 countries.
Additionally, we’re integrating the hospitality supply chain resources of Pelican Procurement Services, Expert Cost Control, Trinity Purchasing, and First Choice Purchasing, which are key players across Europe, to form Avendra International.
Global Procurement. Local Expertise.
Our clients and customers will benefit from more competitive deals, increased efficiencies, and enhanced service and system offerings as part of Avendra International’s global network, with its $20 billion in procurement power.
This new chapter strengthens our capabilities in logistics and global supply chain management, ensuring we continue to lead in hospitality procurement.
Simply put, we have a vast network of over 2,600 supplier partner agreements worldwide, backed by a local hospitality team with expert knowledge to ensure your purchasing aligns with your goals.
Procurement and purchasing are our areas of expertise, and with a presence in more than 80,000 client locations globally, our track record speaks for itself.
What this Means
We will use Avendra International’s branding to reflect our unified global presence, but rest assured, our commitment to providing high-quality, personalised service from our team of local experts remains unchanged.
As we embark on this exciting journey, we will continue to support our client’s needs with the same dedication they have come to expect, backed by a global network of resources and expertise.
“Avendra International represents a significant step forward in our mission to strengthen our footprint in Europe and across the globe.”
As we embark on this exciting journey, we will continue to support our client’s needs with the same dedication they have come to expect, backed by a global network of resources and expertise.
Strengthening our Global Footprint
Ian Murphy, Aramark’s Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and GPO Europe, shares,
“Avendra International represents a significant step forward in our mission to strengthen our footprint in Europe and across the globe.
With Avendra International’s capabilities, we combine local expertise with a robust service offering, supported by our global procurement and supply chain network. Together with our advanced technology systems, this allows us to deliver superior value,
increased efficiency, and more streamlined operations for our clients. We’re not only building on our successful track record but also making it easier for our clients and suppliers to engage with us seamlessly, both locally and internationally.”
We get it, and we can help. Contact us for more information and to learn how we can support you. hello_Europe@avendra.com
What’s in this issue?
PAGE 8
The evolution of the Avendra International Brand
PAGE 13
Behind the Scenes: Avendra International Photoshoot
PAGE 10
Contents Autumn/Winter 2024
Welcome to the Autumn issue of the Avendra Edge Magazine!
Ian Holliday VP Growth & Retention Avendra International Europe
This edition celebrates the launch of our new brand, Avendra International, with a refreshed magazine look.
We’re excited to showcase our commitment to excellence and innovation, bringing you the latest expertise, cutting-edge solutions and sustainable practices.
Our goal is to continue to support your success and keep you informed about the latest developments in your industry.
Take a look at what’s inside this issue:
Exciting News
Discover the exciting story about us joining Avendra International and what it means for you. Meet some of our global team members who are here to share their expertise and support.
Latest Expertise
Dive into the latest trends in hot drinks and food to help revamp your menus. And, with tips from our trusted supplier partners, make the most of your CAPEX investments. Plus, stay updated on the latest in sustainability from our supplier partners.
Pi Highlights
Explore how our Pi eProcurement system’s online tool can help you simplify your menu management processes, saving your team’s time and reducing errors.
We hope you find this edition informative and helpful in navigating the ever-evolving landscape. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the next edition!
BEHIND THE SCENES:
Avendra International Photoshoot
Simona Hardy Head of Marketing
Recently, our European teams came together for a large-scale photoshoot organised by our marketing team across multiple locations across the UK, Ireland, Germany, Belgium, and Spain.
This effort was part of our transition to Avendra International, aimed at refreshing our professional portraits and capturing the essence of our
local team of experts who support clients across Europe.
The offices were abuzz with energy as team members gathered, dressed to impress, and prepared for their close-ups. We captured some wonderful candid moments, full of laughter and camaraderie, reflecting the unique spirit and professionalism of our Avendra International family.
We’re thrilled to share a sneak peek behind the scenes!
Ireland
Prague UK
Behind the Scenes
We caught up with Simona Hardy, Head of Marketing at Avendra International Europe, to learn more about her marketing journey and the recent rebrand of Avendra International.
She shared insights on the transformation and what it means for the company’s future.
Describe your background in the industry.
I began my marketing journey almost 20 years ago, just as the industry was undergoing rapid change with the rise of digital marketing. Over the years, I’ve progressed from Marketing Assistant to Head of Marketing, gaining firsthand experience of how powerful marketing can be when it’s done well.
For me, marketing is the beating heart of any organisation. It’s the glue that connects everything— product and service development, customer service and sales— creating a seamless experience for clients and shaping how the world sees your brand.
What drives your passion for marketing?
What keeps my passion alive is the constant drive to innovate. I thrive on analysing competitors and diving into market research, always looking for the next opportunity that gives us an edge.
There’s nothing more rewarding than turning challenges into opportunities. That’s what marketing is all about—finding new, creative ways to engage with customers and deliver real value. It’s that perfect blend of creative
vision and strategic thinking that not only helps us solve problems, but also strengthens our connections with clients.
Tell us about the evolution of the Avendra International brand.
Over the past 12 months, our marketing teams in Europe and the US, along with colleagues from across the business, have worked hard to bring Avendra International to life. We merged the strengths of our existing brands—Avendra, Pelican Procurement Services, Expert Cost Control, Trinity Purchasing, and First Choice Purchasing—to create Avendra International. By combining deep local expertise with a robust global procurement and supply chain network, we can deliver even greater value and support to our clients worldwide.
By combining deep local expertise with a robust global procurement and supply chain network, we can deliver even greater value and support to our clients worldwide.
As our new strapline states, we are all about “Global Procurement. Local Expertise.”
What has been your favourite part of the re-brand project?
What I’ve loved most about this project is how it brought the whole company together. While marketing led the way, it was a genuine team effort, with people from every corner of the business getting involved. The passion and commitment from everyone were genuinely inspiring.
A real highlight for me was seeing how the final brand reflected our shared vision. This isn’t just about marketing—it’s about who we are as a company and what we’re striving to achieve together.
What’s in store for clients with the new Avendra International brand?
As our new strapline states, we are all about “Global Procurement. Local Expertise.”
Our clients will still be working with the same team that knows their business inside out. But now, they’ll also benefit from the strength of our global procurement network, worth $20 billion, and cutting-edge technology—all designed to help them achieve the best results. It’s the perfect balance: local service, backed by global reach.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I love spending time in nature with my dogs, going on walks, and catching up with friends. I also enjoy volunteering when I can. Being outdoors and staying connected with the people I care about most really recharges me.
Dayene Moreira
Digital Marketing Executive
Hot Drinks: Top Trends for this Season
As the crisp autumn air gives way to the chill of winter, it’s important to cater to the evolving tastes of consumers seeking warmth and comfort in their beverages.
The global hot drinks trends for the upcoming autumn and winter promise a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.
Here’s a look at the top trends for this season.
Artisanal Teas and Infusions
The appreciation for artisanal teas continues to grow, with an emphasis on unique blends and their health benefits.
Popular varieties include:
▶ Matcha and Green Teas: Renowned for their antioxidant properties.
▶ Herbal Infusions: Ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and chamomile promise relaxation and health benefits.
▶ Tea Cocktails and Infusions: Delight your consumers with a range of creative tea cocktails and infusions. For instance, Lipton x Monin offers unique creations such as:
■ Cozy Berry Bliss: Featuring Lipton Tea English Breakfast with Monin Spiced Red Berries and Agave syrups, garnished with star anise and a cinnamon stick.
■ Winter Spice Tea: A mix of Lipton Earl Grey with Monin Winter Spice syrup, fresh ginger, orange slices, and star anise.
■ Ginger Mint Magic: Infusing Lipton Tea Delicate Mint with Monin Ginger syrup, liquorice, and fresh ginger.
Top tip: Create a tea menu that highlights these options, perhaps offering a teatasting experience or a tea sommelier service.
Specialty
Coffees
Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable and selective about their coffee as coffee culture evolves, placing greater emphasis on both quality and sustainability.
Key trends include:
▶ Single-Origin Coffees: Highlighting beans from specific regions known for their unique flavours.
▶ Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Provide transparency and let consumers know where the coffee beans have been sourced from.
▶ Innovative Brewing Methods: From pour-overs to cold brews, different brewing techniques can enhance the experience.
Top tip: Invest in high-quality coffee equipment and train staff to master various brewing methods. Consider partnering with local roasteries to offer exclusive blends.
Invest in high-quality coffee equipment and train staff to master various brewing methods.
Hot Chocolate Renaissance
Hot chocolate is experiencing a renaissance, moving beyond the simple cocoa powder mix to gourmet experiences.
This season, expect to see:
▶ Single-Origin Cocoa: Similar to coffee, single-origin cocoa offers unique and rich flavours.
▶ Spiced and Flavoured Varieties: Think beyond the classic –cinnamon, chili, lavender, and even turmeric can add intriguing flavours.
▶ Vegan and Dairy-Free Options: Catering to dietary preferences with almond, oat, and coconut milk alternatives.
Cultural Inspirations
Global flavours are making their way into hot drinks, offering guests a taste of international traditions.
Notable inspirations include:
▶ Masala Chai: A spiced tea from India that combines black tea with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs.
▶ Mexican Hot Chocolate: Known for its rich, spicy flavour with hints of cinnamon and chili.
▶ Nordic Glögg: A warm, spiced drink that’s a staple in Scandinavian countries during the winter months.
Top tip: Create a hot chocolate bar where customers and guests can customise their drink with various spices, flavours, and toppings.
Top tip: Highlight these culturally inspired drinks on your menu, providing a brief history or story behind each beverage to enhance the experience.
Alcohol-Infused Warmers
Alcohol-infused hot drinks are perfect for creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Here are a few to consider:
▶ Hot Toddies: A classic mix of whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water.
▶ Mulled Wine and Cider: Warmed with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
▶ Irish Coffee: A robust blend of coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream.
Top tip: Offer these as part of a seasonal or holiday menu, perhaps with a special evening event.
Functional and HealthFocused Beverages
As wellness remains a priority, functional hot drinks that provide health benefits are still gaining traction.
Here are a few examples of ways to incorporate these:
▶ Adaptogenic Drinks: Using ingredients like ashwagandha and reishi mushrooms to help combat stress.
▶ Probiotic Hot Drinks: Incorporating probiotics to support digestive health.
▶ Nutrient-Rich Broths: Bone broth and vegan alternatives that are rich in nutrients and offer a savoury, warming option.
Top tips: Feature a section on your menu dedicated to wellness drinks, highlighting their health benefits and ingredients.
We get it, and we can help. Are you looking to add innovative hot drink options to your menu offering? Speak to our experts at hello_Europe@avendra.com
Simplify Menu and Allergen Management with Our All-In-One Online Tool
Managing recipes, menu costs, and allergen information can be complex and time-consuming. That’s where our online Menu and Allergen Management tool, Piranha, comes in - now available in six languages!
Matt Ferris Lead Product & Release Manager
Easy Recipe and Menu Management
Piranha allows you to create, store, and manage recipes in one place. Its dynamic category management helps you organise recipes efficiently so your entire team can quickly find and use them as needed.
With Piranha, everyone can access the most up-to-date recipe information, ensuring consistency across the board.
Up-to-Date Costing
Piranha keeps your recipe costs current by using live data from your suppliers. If a supplier changes their prices, Piranha updates recipe costs instantly.
This ensures that the whole team works with accurate costing information, helping you stay on budget and adjust menu prices as needed without manual calculations.
Accurate Allergen and Nutritional Information
Transparency is essential when it comes to allergens and nutritional data. Piranha provides detailed information at both the product and recipe levels, sourced directly from suppliers.
The tool ensures that everyone on your team can access accurate allergen and nutrition information, which you can quickly generate and download to share with your customers. This helps you meet all necessary regulations while providing clear information.
Why Try Piranha?
Managing recipes, pricing, and allergen information can be a hassle without an all-in-one tool. Piranha provides everything in one simple-to-use, online platform. This saves you time and reduces errors, ensuring that everyone works with the same accurate and up-to-date information. Whether you run a small cafe or a large catering operation, Piranha is designed to meet your needs.
Book a Demo. Ready to transform your menu management process?
Book a demo to see Piranha in action and discover how it can streamline your catering operations. To get started, contact us at hello_Europe@avendra.com
Successful Supplier Engagement Day with Our Client, PREM Group, in
Ireland
Recently, our team of local experts organised a Supplier Engagement Day for our client, PREM Group, at the scenic Osprey Hotel in Kildare.
“This Supplier Engagement Day was an invaluable opportunity to discover innovative products and strategies that will enhance guest experiences across our properties.”
PREM Group manages hotels and serviced apartments across Europe. The event brought together suppliers to showcase innovative solutions to enhance hotel guest experiences.
Latest Innovative Solutions
During the event, suppliers introduced new sustainable products designed to elevate guest experiences while minimising environmental impact. They also highlighted the latest trends in coffee and food, offering valuable insights to help hotels stay competitive and delight guests.
In addition to product showcases, the event featured updates on procurement and supply chain strategies. Attendees participated in a wine-tasting session and a menu design workshop, gaining practical knowledge and inspiration to enhance hotel dining experiences.
Event Highlights
Paul Dempsey, Chief Operating Officer (IRL), PREM Group, shares:
“This Supplier Engagement Day was an invaluable opportunity to discover innovative products and strategies that will enhance guest experiences across our properties. We would like to say a special thank you to Brian Williams and Liam Reid from Trinity Purchasing for organising this event for us.”
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Osprey Hotel and General Manager Andrew Hyland for their warm hospitality, which contributed to the success of the event.
We get it, and we can help. We are committed to supporting hotels with innovative solutions and industry insights. For more information, please contact us at hello_Europe@avendra.com
SUSTAINABILITY SPOTLIGHT:
Championing Sustainability with TLANT
We’re all about helping our clients to reduce their carbon footprint and meet their sustainability goals.
Dagmar Schoonhoven Procurement Manager Netherlands
We’re passionate about partnering with suppliers and brand manufacturers who share our dedication to quality, reliability, and sustainability, as we work together to create a greener future.
One of those partners is TLANT, a breakfast manufacturer with core commitment to sustainability.
Founded in 2016 by Glenn Middelhof, TLANT provides a variety of breakfast products to 11,000 hotels across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg. TLANT’s focus on sustainability, health, and affordability makes them a favourite among hotels, especially now, with inflation on the rise and sustainability more important than ever.
A Model of Sustainable Innovation
TLANT has revolutionised the breakfast supply industry by demonstrating that sustainable products can be both highquality and affordable. Their efficient supply chain enables them to offer products at lower prices than larger brands without compromising on sustainability.
A standout feature of TLANT is their “close quality principle,” proudly
This dedication to local sourcing and social responsibility is at the heart of TLANT’s mission, making them a true leader in sustainable breakfast supplies.
displayed on their packaging. This principle focuses on sourcing the finest raw materials as close to home as possible. While they sometimes have to look further to ensure top quality, TLANT excels at finding the best nearby suppliers. This strategy reduces costs and environmental impact by shortening the supply chain and supports local producers and economies.
Moreover, TLANT’s commitment to sustainability is impressive, with 70% of their revenue coming from organic sources. Additionally, 15% of their products are produced
on care farms in the Netherlands by individuals with severe autism. This dedication to local sourcing and social responsibility is at the heart of TLANT’s mission, making them a true leader in sustainable breakfast supplies.
Commitment to the Planet and Community
TLANT’s packaging is another testament to their sustainability efforts. All their products are packaged without single-use plastics and are 100% palm oil-free. Their granola bars and crackers
come in sustainable packaging made from biodegradable materials such as 100% paper or corn.
Earning the B Corporation certification was no small feat for TLANT. They had to meet rigorous standards that assessed their impact on employees, the community, and the planet. TLANT’s high volume of organic products, which are better for health and have a lower carbon footprint than conventional products, played a significant role in achieving this certification.
Glenn Middelhof,
Founder
of
TLANT
says, “Becoming a B-Corp certified is a testament to our relentless pursuit of not just profit but also purpose. We are committed to social and environmental performance and hold ourselves to
rigorous standards of accountability and transparency. This is not just a business ethos but a way of life.”
Join Us in Making a Difference.
We are committed to supporting hospitality and healthcare businesses to prioritise sustainability without compromising on quality or affordability. We believe that together, we can make a significant impact on our planet.
If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint and need advice or help sourcing sustainable products, our team is here to assist you.
Contact us at hello_Europe@avendra.com and let us help you achieve your sustainability goals.
Stationery Trends: Sustainability, Smart Tech, and Personalisation
Luke Moore Head of Procurement, Facilities Management UK & Ireland
The stationery industry in the UK and Europe is dynamic and evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences and societal trends.
Key trends include sustainability, smart technology integration, and personalisation. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Stationery
Sustainability is a major focus, with eco-friendly stationery like recycled paper, biodegradable pens, and plantable seed paper gaining popularity in various sectors, including hotels,
Our latest customer survey reveals demand for more sustainable delivery processes and verifiable CO2 reduction initiatives.
restaurants, and childcare facilities. Schools and colleges are also prioritising recycled and FSCcertified paper goods, teaching students about sustainability from a young age.
Rob Weston, National Account Manager at Lyreco, notes, “Our latest customer survey reveals demand for more sustainable delivery processes and verifiable CO2 reduction initiatives. Customers increasingly prefer fully recyclable product ranges, prioritising eco-friendly options in their purchases.”
Digital
Integration and Smart Stationery
The blend of digital technology with traditional stationery is on the rise. Smart pens, smart notebooks, and interactive whiteboards are becoming standard in classrooms and conference rooms. In the hospitality sector, digital guestbooks, e-signature pads, and
QR code menus are enhancing efficiency and the guest experience.
Customisation and Personalisation
Personalisation is making waves, especially in hospitality and education. Customised stationery items, like branded notebooks and pens, add a touch of luxury and strengthen brand identity. In schools, personalised stationery helps foster a sense of belonging among students.
Health and HygieneOriented Products
The pandemic has sparked a surge in demand for antibacterial and easy-to-clean stationery products. Care facilities and
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educational institutions are adopting hygienic solutions like antimicrobial pens and wipeable notebooks to ensure safety.
Minimalist and Functional Design
Minimalist design is shaping stationery choices across all sectors. In hospitality, sleek and functional items create a modern ambience. In education, minimalist designs reduce distractions and promote focused learning. This trend also impacts healthcare, where clean and simple stationery supports administrative efficiency and enhances the patient experience.
Digital Detox and the Return to Analogue
Despite the digital boom, there’s a countertrend towards digital detox.
In schools students are encouraged to engage with physical books and handwritten notes.
In schools students are encouraged to engage with physical books and handwritten notes. In hospitality, some establishments offer analogue entertainment and stationery options to promote mindfulness and well-being.
We get it, and we can help. Are you looking to review your stationery category to meet your budget and consumers’ evolving needs? Contact our experts at hello_Europe@avendra.com.
Sources: Mintel, Globenewswire, Ibisworld, Bonafide Research
Meet the Team: Supply Chain
Helen Leys
Strategic Sourcing Director
UK & Ireland
“In my role, I manage a wide range of products, from catering equipment and packaging to proteins like fish, meat, and vegan options. I also handle the commercial side of our Offshore Distributors in the UK, Europe, and the Gulf of Mexico.
Since joining the team in 2018, I’ve led key projects, such as a recent review of our chicken and bacon offerings, all to better support our clients’ needs.
Outside of work, I enjoy the outdoors, watching sports, and diving into a good thriller while travelling!”
As part of Avendra International, we’re thrilled to bring together a global team of experts who are passionate about delivering top-notch value and support to our clients. Our supply chain and procurement teams work hard to
ensure our clients have everything they need to thrive, from the best products to top-quality services.
In this article, we’re excited to introduce two experts from our European supply chain team.
Kristel Cauterman
Supply Chain & Procurement Manager
GPO & Managed Services Benelux & France
“I’m a Supply Chain & Procurement Manager for GPO & MS Benelux France, specialising in areas like food distribution, hotel supplies, alcohol, and guest amenities. This December marks 10 years with the company, with experience in both sales and procurement roles.
I’m passionate about helping our hospitality clients enhance their services and create memorable guest experiences. By supporting our procurement team, we ensure our clients always have the top-quality products they need to stay ahead.
When I’m not at work, I love running, waterskiing, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.”
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EXPERT ADVICE FROM OUR SUPPLIER PARTNERS:
Top Tips to Maximise CAPEX Spending
Kristel Cauterman
Supply Chain & Procurement
GPO & Managed Services CE
Manager
When it comes to capital expenditure (CAPEX) in the hospitality industry, every decision counts. Smart investments can enhance guest experiences, improve efficiency, and ensure long-term savings.
Our supplier partners offer essential tips for maximising your CAPEX spending in three key areas:
Choosing the Right Flooring
Gregory Van Overmeeren, Key Account Manager at Tarkett, shares expert advice on selecting flooring that balances style, function, and environmental responsibility.
PAGE 40
Furniture Solutions
Arthur Weggeman, Project Manager at NORM, provides insights into selecting durable, sustainable, and costeffective furniture.
PAGE 42
Hotel Signage
Joost Nijland, owner of C. Cases, offers expert advice on creating cohesive, sustainable, and impactful signage.
PAGE 44
We get it, and we can help. If you’re interested in learning more about our supplier partners and their innovative solutions for renovations and refurbishments, get in touch with us at hello_Europe@avendra.com
EXPERT ADVICE FROM OUR SUPPLIER PARTNERS:
3 Steps to Choosing the Right Flooring
Gregory Van Overmeeren
Key Account Manager Tarkett
Choosing the right flooring is key for elevating a hotel’s aesthetics, ensuring durability and functionality, and enhancing the guest experience.
Today’s stylish, distinctive hotel spaces are created from the floor up. Flooring sets the tone, blending architecture and design into a unique visitor experience.
Gregory Van Overmeeren, Key Account Manager with over 10 years of experience at Tarkett, a flooring solutions supplier, offers valuable tips for choosing the right flooring for your hotel.
1. Consider the space
Acoustics are key in hallways, flooring contributes to high acoustic comfort, making carpets ideal with their acoustic properties and personalized designs.
Carpets in guest rooms can similarly help with acoustics, create a cozy atmosphere, and are soft to the touch. Alternatives like Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) provide clean, barely distinguishable high-quality designs with wood or stone imitations.
In hotel restaurants, maintenance is essential. Although carpets enhance acoustics, other flooring solutions can be considered. Therefore, hard surfaces like LVT, or wooden flooring are valuable alternatives.
Every floor and its properties require specific maintenance.
2. Optimise your budget.
Tufted carpets, made of synthetic Polyamide 6 fibers are costeffective, while 80/20 wool/ polyamide woven carpets offer a high-end touch suitable for premium areas.
Carpet tiles are easy to install and to replace and reduce cutting waste, making them more economical.
Modular PVC flooring costs are based on two key factors:
▶ Wear layer: Thicker wear-resistant layers offer enhanced durability.
▶ Installation method: Glue down, click, or loose lay.
3. Explore eco-friendly options.
Choosing a flooring provider that offers sustainable solutions aligns with the increasing demand for environmentally conscious practices.
Gregory says, “Tarkett is committed to sustainability. We ensure our flooring products are created ethically, with maximum use of recycled healthy materials, and with sustainable water and energy management. On top of this, with our ReStart program system, we can help recycle carpets, modular PVC, and linoleum in one of our 8 recycling plants into new flooring products.”
“We can help recycle carpets, modular PVC, and linoleum in one of our 8 recycling plants into new flooring products.”
EXPERT ADVICE FROM OUR SUPPLIER PARTNERS:
Furniture Solutions to Optimise Your
CAPEX Investment
Arthur Weggeman Project Manager NORM
When planning for renovations, selecting the right furniture is crucial for both functionality and longterm savings.
Arthur Weggeman, Project Manager at NORM, which offers custom furniture solutions, shares his top tips for making smart furniture investments:
Choose Plug-and-Play Furniture
Plug-and-play furniture arrives ready to use, which speeds up installation and reduces downtime. For hotels, this means rooms are available
faster, minimising revenue loss during renovations.
Invest in Long-Lasting Materials
Select furniture with scratchresistant surfaces and vandalismproof features, especially in high-traffic areas. This ensures your investment lasts longer and reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Arthur, a Project Manager at NORM, notes, “Furniture in hotels needs to withstand rough use. Features like strong connections and dense materials are crucial.”
Eco-Friendly Options
Incorporate sustainability into your furniture selection by choosing materials that are 100% recyclable and FSC-approved.
Prioritise Efficiency
When planning renovations or installations, it’s important to consider the time involved to minimise disruption and ensure rooms are quickly back in service.
Arthur notes, “NORM offers a time-saving bathroom renovation solution that can transform 15 bathrooms in just one week with a two-person team, which
ensures rooms are swiftly ready for use again.”
Balanced Aesthetics
When designing hotel rooms, it’s important to balance aesthetics with functionality. Lighter wood or uni-colour finishes can create a welcoming atmosphere, especially when matched with complementary paint and panelling.
Consider Custom-Made Furniture
Custom-made furniture allows you to create pieces that perfectly match your design vision and operational requirements. Whether it’s a unique layout, specific materials, or integrating technology like concealed cables, custom solutions ensure that your furniture not only looks great but functions perfectly within your space.
EXPERT ADVICE FROM OUR SUPPLIER PARTNERS:
Top Tips for Hotel Signage
Joost Nijland Owner
C.Cases
The right signage can play a key role in maintaining a cohesive brand and setting your hotel apart.
Joost Nijland, the owner of C.Cases, a branding implementation agency with offices in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany, shares his top advice for updating or buying new signage. Here are his key tips:
1. Balance Ambition and Budget
Align your signage project with your ambition and budget. Joost advises
against focusing solely on cost, as it can lead to spending money on a poor result.
“Specify your ambition level and what you want to achieve – how you want to be perceived by guests,” he says. Consider phasing your project to prioritise highimpact items like LED signage first and smaller signs later, ensuring better budget management and a cohesive aesthetic.
2. Check Local Regulations
Know the local regulations before you start. Some cities, especially historical ones, might have restrictions on sign types, like illuminated signs or sizes they allow.
3. Design for Cohesion
Your signage should complement your hotel’s style and ambience. Create something that fits your hotel’s unique character. Welldesigned signage enhances
navigation and reinforces your brand identity.
4. Prioritise Sustainability
Joost recommends using ecofriendly options when available. While not all colours are available in eco-friendly options yet, using them helps protect the environment.
“Or consider re-using existing signs to reduce waste,” he adds. “At C.Cases, we further minimise our carbon footprint by centralising production and using local installation teams.”
5. Optimise Signage Placement
Place signs strategically to improve both looks and function. Only put signs where they’re really needed to help guests navigate without cluttering the space.
Joost advises, “Use signage effectively to maintain the hotel’s aesthetics.”
Top Food Trends to Dish-up for Autumn & Winter
As Europe moves into the colder months, it’s a great time to explore the latest food trends to attract customers and satisfy their appetites. Embracing these trends can help restaurants and hotels meet changing customer expectations and elevate their culinary reputation.
Red Kitching Strategic Sourcing Director UK & Ireland
Here’s a closer look at the key trends for this winter and their benefits:
Mix Up Your Ingredients
Europe’s culinary scene is increasingly embracing unique and diverse ingredients. By introducing grains like freekeh and teff or spices from different cuisines, restaurants can stand out and attract food enthusiasts seeking new dining experiences. Diversifying your ingredients also supports a more inclusive menu and appeals to a forward-thinking clientele.
Food as Medicine
The concept of ‘food as medicine’ is gaining traction, with meals that support health and well-being. Ingredients like turmeric, chia seeds, and fermented foods are known for their health benefits, such as improving digestion and reducing
Meals that promote wellness are a great way to attract healthconscious diners, with dishes that tantalise the palate and support their health.
inflammation. Offering meals that promote wellness is a great way to attract health-conscious diners, with dishes that tantalise the palate and support their health.
Comfort Food
In winter, customers naturally crave comfort food—dishes that offer warmth and nostalgia. Classics like slow-cooked stews, rich casseroles, and indulgent desserts become more popular, providing a comforting dining experience. Contemporary takes on traditional comfort foods, like vegan shepherd’s pie or glutenfree lasagne, can appeal to a wide range of customers. Pair comfort
Sustainability remains a big focus in the food industry, driven by growing environmental awareness.
food with a cosy atmosphere, lowlevel lighting, and a log fire for a winning winter combination.
Sustainability
Sustainability remains a big focus in the food industry, driven by growing environmental awareness. Restaurants and hotels are prioritising locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, minimising food waste, and expanding plantbased menu options. This approach not only meets the desires of
environmentally conscious diners but also can lead to cost efficiencies and fresher, tastier dishes. Featuring a seasonal menu and highlighting local produce helps establishments resonate with ecofriendly values and build a strong brand image.
We get it, and we can help. If you need help finding the latest innovative products or concepts to meet your customers’ needs, please contact us at hello_Europe@avendra.com
Highlights from our Summer Networking Evening
Dieter Schoofs Relationship Manager Belgium
In June, we organised a “Summer Networking Evening” at the picturesque Kasteel Solhof Hotel in Belgium, bringing together hoteliers for an evening of insights and connections.
Industry Expertise
Our guests gained valuable insights from esteemed industry speaker Koen Kennis, an Antwerp tourism expert. He shared emerging trends and strategies to help hotels excel in a competitive market.
Networking Opportunities
The evening also provided ample networking opportunities, allowing all attendees to build new connections and strengthen existing relationships within the hospitality sector.
Delightful Refreshments
The event concluded with a delightful barbecue feast featuring a variety of dishes from select suppliers. Guests tasted everything from sizzling burgers and freshly baked pizzas to garden-fresh produce and tempting desserts, perfectly complementing the networking atmosphere.
Event Highlights
Kristel Cauterman, Supply Chain & Procurement Manager, shared,
“We are committed to providing the expertise and connections that will empower our clients to enhance their hotel offerings. The evening at Kasteel Solhof Hotel was a great success, bringing together industry leaders to discuss pressing issues and innovative solutions.”
Elly Lazarova, from Grand Mangeur by City Box Hotel Antwerp, shared,
“The event at Kasteel Solhof Hotel was both informative and enjoyable. The speakers and procurement experts offered practical advice for our hotel operations. And the barbecue was a highlight!”
We get it, and we can help. If you would like more information on ways we can improve your hotel operations, please reach out to us at hello_Europe@avendra.com.