The UK’s Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA) has extended a warm welcome members of the FCSI to attend this year’s FEA Industry Conference, which takes place on the 12th and 13th of November at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel.
This year’s event theme, Business Agility, promises to deliver “fresh insights, dynamic discussions, and valuable networking opportunities” for everyone involved in the foodservice equipment sector, says the FEA. “As long-standing partners in driving innovation and excellence across the industry, we’re keen to build on our strong relationship with FCSI and extend a warm invitation to all members to join us,” the Association said via a statement.
“Whether you’re looking to connect with key industry leaders, explore emerging trends, or simply enjoy the collaborative spirit of the conference, we believe your presence will make a meaningful contribution to the event.”
FCSI member-rate packages
FCSI members will be charged to attend the Conference at the same full rates as FEA members. The rates are:
· Wednesday one-night package: Single occupancy – £680
· Wednesday & Thursday two-night package: Single occupancy – £859
· Thursday Day Delegate – £459
More packages are available. To book your FEA Industry Conference package please contact Rob.Gibson@FEA.org.uk who will support you with the booking process.
FCSI FEA panel on 12 November
Also taking place at this year’s FEA Industry Conference is the FCSI FEA ‘Circular Economy of Carbon: The Bigger Picture panel’. This is a free-to-attend event taking place on the 12th November.
The panel discussion will explore the wider relevance of the industry demand for embodied carbon data. Moving away from the historic focus on UK projects, the panel will discuss whether the industry is ready for Digital Product Passports, CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) and carbon-based purchasing.
Are traditional buying methods for catering equipment going to change, will EU proposed regulations be reflected in the UK and what’s next for the industry? Join this insightful panel to hear some fresh perspectives on the direction of travel and what it may mean for us all. Register for the panel here.
Keynotes and Conference highlights
Former sportsman Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Conference. Edwards will address the importance of taking risks and getting up and trying again if you fail.
His talk will round off a fascinating afternoon as conference speakers unpick one of the great themes of our age: AI. The topic will be covered from several angles: Tim Davies, CEO of Projekt Rising, will look at AI with an operator’s point of view; Emanuela Delgado, senior VP of Parts Town, will address using AI for business agility and growth; Chang Ge, head lecturer at Lincoln University, will talk about understanding AI with a focus on ethics, policy, governance and regulation; and Google’s James Shaw, global programs design lead, will focus on how the search giant is using AI. Then the four experts will get together to form an AI panel with discussion and a Q&A session from the floor.
All that is will follow an insightful morning covering topics as diverse as food to go, with Matt Cundrick of FTG Navigator; front-of-house design trends from Claire Smith and Tansin Blankley of ABDA Design; and kitchen and FOH technology with Mark Reynolds, regional executive chef of Levy UK and chair of the Craft Guild of Chefs.
Conference facilitator Michael Jones of 1473 Media, and editorial director of FCSI’s Foodservice Consultant magazine will open proceedings with an industry update and a look at global trends, while the morning keynote address will come from Dr Peter Stadelmann, CEO, Rational AG.
“This year’s conference offers a fascinating mix of stimulating presentations, all linked to the theme of ‘Business Agility,’” says Kelly Barrell, chair of FEA’s revenue and marketing committee, which plans the event. “And it’s topped off by the legendary Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, who made a triumph out of heroic failure. If anyone knows about pushing outside your comfort zone, it’s him.”
Anyone looking to attend the conference should secure their place as soon as possible. “Early Bird ticket sales have been extremely strong”, says FEA’s marketing manager, Adam Lawrence. “We’ve worked hard to broaden the appeal of the conference through a strategic approach to the programme. For the next phase we’re partnering with affiliate associations to attract attendees from the wider industry, so it’s an exciting time.”
Further details:
For more information about The FEA Industry Conference, visit feaconference.co.uk.
