Hospitality and tourism event Hospitality Exchange 2021 will take place at Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday October 12 and Wednesday October 13, with Michelin-starred chef Michael Wignall as its guest chef.
The two day conference will offer analyses, advice and support for the hotel and hospitality industry, and have three central themes: Reflect, Recruit and Restore. The programme will consider the previous success of the sector, the challenges of staffing in a new era and how to restore trading to its pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels of spend.
NIHF President Statement
Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) president Stephen Meldrum stated, "Hospitality Exchange 2021's line-up is one of our most impressive yet and has been curated to reflect the challenges we are facing collectively. We’ve brought together a team of experts to share their insights and advice contained within a very comprehensive programme.
"While discussion, analysis and the future will be the main focal points, time will be devoted to the people of our trade, who, without doubt, are our greatest asset. In many ways, they are the unique selling point for local hotels, helping visitors to discover a collection of new and unique Northern Ireland experiences. The role that employees play is integral to the success of the business and the sector as a whole. The Federation recognises this and that is why staff will be the star of the show as we celebrate those who have been nominated for a Hotel and Hospitality Hero Award.
"Hospitality Exchange 2021 is very much about looking to the future. Our plan is to acknowledge the challenges and impact of COVID-19, while looking at solutions and learning how businesses are addressing them and moving forward.
"We are delighted that the Economy Minister Gordon Lyons MLA will address this year’s conference and the sector is keen to hear of plans to stimulate growth, the rollout of the Tourism Recovery Action Plan and support to restore the sector."
Further Information
Further information about Hospitality Exchange 2021 can be found at hospitalityexchange.org.uk.
© 2021 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.