Events

📅 Since its 1990 debut, Ambiente in Frankfurt has become a key international trade show for consumer goods, featuring Dining, Living, and Giving sectors. In 2026, industry giants like Marriott and Caddie Hotel attended, alongside Lodge Manufacturing, exhibiting for over 30 years. Shane Miller from THE CUSTOM CHEF highlighted its role in international growth, sparking partnerships with IMERCO and Macy’s. Joelle Mertzel's Kitchen Concepts debuted internationally, securing orders across Europe and interest from Japan, Australia, and more.

📅 Suzanne Speak joins the Hotel Owner Conference on 3rd November 2026 at Prince Philip House, London. As Radisson Hotel Group's UK&I managing director, she oversees 44 hotels, expanding to 48 by year-end. With nearly 30 years in hospitality, Speak will share insights on hotel acquisitions, revenue strategy, and owner relations, amidst the sector's growth. Michael Northcott, editor of Hotel Owner, highlights her expertise in portfolio management and brand standards. Full details are on the event's official website.

🗺 Skift Travel Health Index January 2026 shows Asia-Pacific's 11% year-over-year growth, surpassing the global average of 5%. Bangkok is key in connecting Southeast Asia's growing markets. Skift Asia Forum in Bangkok this April features speakers like Amit Saberwal (RedDoorz) and Ian Di Tullio (Minor Hotels). Key topics include expansion strategies, platform ecosystems, and hospitality growth. Thailand scored 108 on the Skift Travel Health Index, showcasing its tourism resurgence and international demand. Attendance is limited.

🏨 HBD Partners, a London-based recruitment consultancy, joins as a Supporter for the Hotel Owner Conference on 3rd November 2026. The event, in Wimbledon, aims to unite hotel owners, operators, and investors to discuss the industry's future. HBD Partners, known for their expertise in hospitality recruitment, align with the conference's mission to offer networking and actionable insights. Co-founders Will Davies and Mark Hulton highlight the partnership's potential for meaningful industry connections.

💻 June 15–18, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, USA, the Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®) will take place. Known as the world's largest and longest-running hospitality technology event, HITEC® is produced by HFTP® and offers access to the latest in hospitality tech, industry experts, and essential education, helping attendees find cost-effective strategies to enhance their company bottom lines.

🍴 From March 30 to April 1, 2026, HRC returns to Excel London for Food, Drink & Hospitality Week. Featuring over 100 industry leaders, the event hosts panels and interviews on leadership, equality, and food trends. Key speakers include Adam Handling MBE, Sally Abé, and Kate Nicholls OBE. Sessions cover the future of food and drinks, workplace culture, and competitive socializing. The event is free for trade professionals, with registration open on HRC's website.

🌎 Kansas City, June 2026: The World Cup draws millions, transforming neighborhoods into international hubs, but reveals coordination gaps in transit and visitor guidance. KC2026's Game Plan unites small businesses and government for smoother experiences. In Onomichi, Japan, local efforts revived tourism through coordinated projects, fostering memorable visits. Barcelona's structured visitor management now predicts tourist influxes, showing proactive planning. Effective destination coordination aligns visitor expectations with reality, enhancing retention without major investments.

📆 Thursday, May 21, 2026, London Hilton on Park Lane will host the Kimberly-Clark Professional™ Golden Service Awards. With Kerry Godliman as the celebrity host, this event celebrates over 30 years of excellence in the UK and Ireland’s cleaning industry. Networking with over 500 guests, tickets are £275 plus VAT. This biennial event is a key opportunity for industry recognition and connection. Book tickets via gsa@suzannehowe.com or call 0203 468 0923.