FCSI takes a different Luke at the industry

Entrepreneur Luke Johnson star guest at society's event

Some of foodservice's biggest players were wowed by ‘serial entrepreneur' Luke Johnson - Chairman of Risk Capital Partners and former Chairman of Channel 4 - during FCSI's latest event at City Hall.

Luke was grilled by former FCSI Chair Jonathan Doughty, spilling the beans on everything from his favourite restaurants (a Primrose Hill local, The Delaunay and Racine) to why he supports VAT cuts and welcomes the rise of the staycation.

The Financial Times columnist said the key to his success was "not listening to the accountants”, and explained that he was an advocate of the Japanese philosophy of kaizen - making regular, small changes.

One change he's not a fan of is the high street's love of discounting. Branding Groupon a way to attract ‘hit and run customers' Luke explained that he prefers to invest in promotions and upgrades, giving customers value in other ways, like through great service.

Attendees were treated to Luke's view on the dining out scene - "Paris is a more boring place to eat out than London” - and learned that there would be less bureaucracy and an employment law that made hiring and firing easier if Luke was PM.

Following the event, guests were entertained by OCS Catering who hosted a 1940s themed reception overlooking the City.

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