Discover what the future holds at the FEA industry conference

Discover what the future holds at the FEA industry conference

FEA Industry Conference, 20^th and 21^st November, Leonardo Hotel, Hinckley Island

The Foodservice Equipment Association has announced the agenda for its 2024 Industry Conference, which takes place on the 20^th and 21^st November at the Leonardo Hotel, Hinckley Island in Leicestershire.

The conference will examine some of the biggest issues the foodservice equipment sector is facing, including sustainability and the opportunities – and the challenges – presented by AI.

Conference will hear from futurist and strategic advisor Simon Stenning of Future Foodservice, who will lay out the current economic landscape and take a look at some potential future scenarios.

Improving the sustainability of the industry and its clients has been increasing in importance recently as the drive towards Net Zero gathers pace. The morning’s sessions examine the issue from different perspectives. This includes Pierre-Yves Paslier of Notpla explaining the benefits of investing in innovation, Tim Radcliffe of NHS England discussing the NHS’s Net Zero progress to date, and Oliver Rosevear, Sustainability Director of Fullers, who will discuss Net Zero from the operator’s perspective. The morning will culminate in a panel session, chaired by Dr Sam Mudie of Hospitality Energy Saving Experts, which will give the audience the chance to question all the speakers. 

The afternoon’s sessions will focus on one of the biggest new trends of recent years, the emergence of AI tools and what it could mean for foodservice equipment and catering as a whole. These sessions will be led by Peter Russell, the chief technology officer of the Russell Partnership.

An update on FEA’s Foodservice Carbon Professional course will be followed by a talk from last year’s FEA Apprentice of the Year, Morris Fowler of Falcon Foodservice, who will give his perspective on the best ways to attract and nurture new talent in the sector.

Conference will also feature a live edition of the popular podcast Kitchen Curiosity, with host Radford Chancellor interviewing new FEA chair Emma Brooks and FEA Chief Executive John Cunningham, discussing market trends and the latest developments within the sector.

The FEA AGM takes place on the Wednesday, as well as the popular charity dinner, which this year will include the announcement of the Charitable Endeavor Award. On Thursday, after the conference programme, there will be the annual gala dinner, including the presentation of the FEA Apprentice Award, the FEA Chair Awards, and the Outstanding Service to the Catering Equipment Industry Award.

For the latest news on the industry conference, to book places, or to find out about entering the awards, visit feaconference.co.uk. This year there is a limited number of ‘first time delegate’ places costing just £55, provided they are accompanied by a FEA member booking a residential package.