The shows, which takes place from Monday 2 October to Wednesday 4 October, in Olympia, London, will provide information and insights into the industry as well as demonstrations from some of the UK's most successful chefs – including Clare Smyth MBE, Tom Kerridge, Alyn Williams, Stephen Harris, Daniel Galmiche and Andrew Pern.
Encounter 450 exciting exhibitors
The supplier exhibition is one of the biggest of its kind and products on offer range from equipment to food, drink and technology.
Speaking about the industry ahead of their stint at the shows, Richard Hamlin, director of First Merchant Hospitality Finance, said: “The hospitality and leisure sector is like no other – abundant with big personalities and huge opportunities for success. We love working with hospitality operators. It is one of our nation’s great industries that we can be very proud of.
"Every single visitor to the UK experiences the hospitality sector that makes it our national shop window. Next year will be another boom year full of new cuisines, exciting innovation and ambitious expansion that we look forward to supporting.”
The Bar & Pub Show visitors will be able to sample the delights from the Big Drop Brewing Company, of which founder Rob Fink said: “More and more adults are moderating their alcohol consumption or giving up altogether, including the 18-24 age group, in which one in five are teetotal, so pubs and bars have to adapt to stay relevant.
"But while people are drinking less, they are also being more demanding about their choice of drink and craft beers have been instrumental in making people think differently and expect more from their beer.”
Stimulating speakers take to the stage
Other attractions will include Simon Stenning and James Wallin from MCA Insight, and OpenTable, sharing insights into latest trends and hosting a range of "fascinating panel debates".
After becoming the first female British chef to hold three Michelin stars, Clare Smyth’s newly opened solo restaurant marks a fresh career high. Attendees can hear the secrets of her success and experience her signature dishes in a live interview.
Smyth said: “The Restaurant Show is an absolute-must for anyone working in the hospitality industry. It’s so important to take time away from your workplace to keep your ideas fresh and you should never underestimate the importance of learning from others, whatever level of the industry you work at. Whether you’re looking for new suppliers, want to network with industry colleagues or watch some of the best chefs in the UK compete, I can highly recommend a visit.”
Liquid learning
Those interested in the drinks sector should head to Hospitality Uncorked as it includes a vast range of focused sessions starting with Master of Wine Peter McCombie right through to cocktail and sake masterclasses.
Final chance to register
There’s still time to register for a free visitor pass. Once visitors have claimed their badge it allows them to gather expertise, knowledge, advice and inspiration from some of the industry’s "most respected leaders and businesses".
Visitors must register in advance to get free entry and only one badge is needed to access all four shows for the full three days. Get your hands on a badge here.