The range of orientation aids for visitors looking for special offers include the special presentation “Solutions” and special interest areas such as HoReCa, Contract Business, and Ethical Style.

Solutions – apply until November 26, 2021

The focus of “Solutions” is the connection between the aesthetic design and the functionality of a product. Innovative and outwardly appealing kitchen and household aids will find a place at Solutions in the foyer of Hall 4.0 where creativity and innovation know no bounds. London-based designer Sebastian Bergne is once again putting together a selection of products for Ambiente 2022 that serve precisely this purpose. Exhibitors of Ambiente can apply for Solutions until November 26. The market launch of the submitted product must have taken place after Ambiente 2019.

HoReCa and Contract Business – apply by November 12, 2021

HoReCa and Contract Business have been an integral part of the Ambiente program for several years. While Contract Business focuses more on the Living and Giving segment, HoReCa is closely interwoven with the Dining segment. This year, Ambiente exhibitors once again have the opportunity to apply for these two special programs. Those participating in the program will be marked with an indicator in the online exhibitor search and can also be called up separately as “Special Interest”. Hall 6.0 will be signposted as a separate trade show for HoReCa, as it was in 2020. Exhibitors who have been included in the HoReCa program and are not located in Hall 6.0 will be identified with a corresponding stand sign. A sign will also be placed at the Contract Business exhibitors’ booths to help buyers find the company they are looking for. Applications can still be submitted until November 12. The prerequisite is three reference projects. Ambiente exhibitors who have already been awarded the HoReCa or Contract Business label in the past do not need to apply again.

Ethical Style – apply by November 18, 2021

As a juried selection, Ethical Style draws attention to suppliers who are doing remarkable things in the area of sustainability. Any Ambiente exhibitor can apply for the program in one or more of the six categories. The deadline for applications is November 18, 2021, and an independent jury of international experts will decide which companies and products are included. This is made up of Christina Bocher (DEKRA Assurance Services GmbH), Kees Bronk (CBI, Center for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries), Lutz Dietzold (German Design Council), Max Gilgenmann (expert for textile sustainability criteria), Sabine Meyer (Side by Side, Caritas Wendelstein Werkstätten) and Mimi Sewalski (avocadostore.de).

The next Ambiente will take place from 11 to 15 February 2022.

ambiente.messefrankfurt.com

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51.000 visitors at HORECA 2022!

Thousand of professionals of Tourism, Coffee and Catering industry from every corner of Greece visited HORECA 2022 and met in person with the 500 exhibitors. The exhibitors were really excited about the fact that all the visitors were decision makers who came with specific needs and closed a lot of commercial deals. At the same time, the absolute satisfaction for the range and quality of the exhibits and the overall level of organization was expressed by the majority of visitors. The 16th HORECA has ended with a visiting and commercial success, proving once again that it is the leading trade show in Greece and the “meeting point” for the industry’s visionary professionals.

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SUSTAINABILITY IN HOSPITALITY: WHY IT IS IMPORTANT AND HOW INDUSTRY LEADERS CAN HELP

source: UNIVESRITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Most people won’t feel good about a vacation if they know it’s adding to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a stretch of trash piling up in the ocean for thousands of miles. Nor will they feel positive about booking a vacation connected with an organization known for disregarding a local economy’s well-being. The idea of enjoying oneself at the expense of others’ meeting their basic needs doesn’t sit well with most people.

Sustainability — the mindful use of a resource so that it isn’t used up or damaged — plays a vital role in the hospitality industry. Hospitality organizations’ success depends on their preserving the natural and cultural attractions that compel tourists to visit their destinations. Not doing so has consequences. In 2018, the Thai government shut down one of its most famous beaches, Maya Bay, for three years after daily visits of 5,000 tourists ended up destroying most of its coral and threatening the very beauty that drew people to the area in the first place. Local tourism operators went out of business.

With the right leadership, hospitality organizations can adopt sustainable business strategies. Sustainability-minded hospitality leaders can also improve efficiency and attract a growing number of customers looking for environmentally and socially responsible products and services. Pursuing an online leadership and management degree or certificate can prepare professionals to lead their organizations to success through sustainability in hospitality.

Why Sustainability in Hospitality Matters

“All tourism relies on the natural and cultural resources that attract tourists and act as the main driver of growth and development in the tourism economy. Some destinations, such as those in the Caribbean, rely on pristine beaches and crystal clear waters to bring in tourists. Others, such as Paris, rely on their cultural heritage—architecture, museums, cuisine—to drive tourist visits,” explains Sergio Alvarez, assistant professor at the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. “As diverse as these destinations may seem, they all share one thing in common: the attractions that make them world-class destinations are threatened by human activity, and in many cases, tourism itself is a main threat to these attractions.”

Sustainable practices make hospitality organizations stand out. Today’s travelers, restaurant patrons, hotel bookers and shoppers care about sustainability. They want to know that the companies they give their business to follow environmentally, socially and culturally sound practices. An overwhelming majority of millennials and Generation Zers will pay more for products and services that don’t harm the environment, deplete natural resources, or negatively affect the lives of people or wildlife.

As a case in point, a Nielson study found that nearly 75% of the respondents from these younger generations are willing to take action to support this attitude. A growing number of people from older generations also want companies to become environmental stewards. In fact, the Nielson study found that 51% of baby boomers will spend more for sustainable products and services as well.
To stand out, hospitality organizations can focus on a few key aspects:

Conserving Energy

Energy conservation in the hospitality industry entails a two-pronged approach: reduction and efficiency. Organizations can start by training employees in behaviors that reduce energy use. These behaviors can range from turning off lights to changing the settings on washing machines and adjusting thermostats appropriately. Energy conservation may also include friendly reminders to guests about their use of towels or electricity. For efficiency, organizations can look for opportunities to use green technology or products. For example, they can install solar panels for heating and cooling or switch to energy-efficient LED lights.

Reducing Waste

Organizations have numerous opportunities to limit their waste. To cut down on food waste, companies can source their food locally or grow it on site. This reduces how much food spoils and ensures fresher products. Businesses can also adopt food-donation policies that let patrons know unused food will make it to the local food kitchen as opposed to just being discarded. Installing water-efficient products, such as water-saving filters, can also make a difference in reducing waste.

Using Organic Amenities

“At a global level, tourism is responsible for 8% of carbon emissions, which are causing changes in our climate and rising sea levels,” notes Alvarez. “Tourism’s substantial carbon footprint is not only caused by transportation of tourists, but also by the production and transportation of supplies such as food, beverages, towels and linens that are a must-have in every hotel.”

Organic products leave a lighter carbon footprint than others. By switching to organic, businesses demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Organic amenities can include products made of all-natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals. For example, hotel toiletries, cleaning supplies, food and fragrances can all come in organic forms. Additionally, organizations can choose products that come in recyclable packaging or biodegradable cartons.
Incorporating sustainable strategies into how an organization operates not only makes a good impression and potentially saves money; it can also protect the natural and cultural attractions guests have come to see.

The hospitality industry must ensure it works in harmony with the environment and is mindful of its social and economic impact by not overconsuming resources, working to conserve biodiversity, not polluting, and respecting local communities and workers. In doing so, the industry protects its very existence. For this reason and others, sustainable tourism has emerged. This practice showcases the environment and focuses on protecting ecological processes and conserving a location’s natural heritage. It also shows respect to host communities and works toward building cultural understanding with them.

The Benefits of Sustainability in Hospitality

Practicing sustainability in hospitality comes with many benefits. Aside from attracting more customers and responding responsibly to what many consider a moral imperative, in light of the current climate crisis, sustainable initiatives offer hospitality businesses incentives.

The federal government, along with states and some local governments, have enacted several programs to promote “green” business. Using renewable energy, reducing waste and implementing measures that enable reuse and recycling can add up to more than just energy conservation. Incentive programs reward businesses with tax write-offs, discounts on insurance premiums, financial grants and faster regulatory permitting. In addition, innovative, environmentally friendly technology can result in long-term cost savings. Though sustainable practices can require initial spending, the combined effects of energy efficiency, waste reduction and the like can lead to spending less money in the long run.

Many hospitality organizations have adopted sustainability plans. This intentional approach involves incorporating sustainable practices that reach across all business operations. Sustainability plans can help improve brand image. Most consumers care about sustainability, according to a recent Trip Advisor survey. It found that 62% of travelers had opted for more environmentally friendly hotels, food and transportation, and 69% of survey respondents said they intended to make even more environmentally responsible travel choices in the future.

In tourism, for instance, people often vote with their feet. If tourists learn that a business does not take the necessary steps to eliminate or significantly reduce its negative impact on the environment, this information will affect their perception of the company brand. Conversely, when organizations demonstrate their commitment to green practices, they can improve their brand image and draw more tourists. Additionally, business cultures that embrace sustainability can also better attract the elite work talent of younger generations looking for companies who share their values.

The Role of Leadership in Sustainability

How can the hospitality industry ensure it fully embraces sustainability? Leaders in this sector can play a key role by integrating sustainability concepts into their business goals and strategies.

Establishing Energy Management Programs

First, hospitality leaders can put energy management programs into place. These programs can involve creating a team responsible for setting up energy conservation plans with specific goals. For example, the team might strive to reduce the company’s energy use by 10% within a year. To help reach the goals, leaders might reward departments or individuals in the organization for reaching their milestone objectives.

Evaluating Energy Usage

Leaders can take another important action toward sustainability: determining how their businesses use energy. A clear understanding of energy usage allows leaders to identify areas for improvement. For example, in what area of a hotel is the most energy being used? Are there ways to reduce energy use in that area without negatively affecting guest experience? Additionally, leaders can routinely evaluate their energy use, seeking out energy-saving practices to improve efficiency and ultimately cut costs.

Embracing Renewable Energy

Besides reducing energy consumption and evaluating how energy is used in their businesses, hospitality leaders can reduce their business’ carbon footprint by embracing renewable sources of energy. In addition to building their brand image as a sustainable hospitality business, these investments pay off by reducing operational costs. For instance, back in 2015, the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Danbury, Connecticut, installed 400 solar panels on the property’s rooftops to generate 132,000 watts of solar electricity. By 2016, the property was saving approximately $1,500 a month in its energy bill, in addition to receiving approximately $16,000 in sales of electricity back to the grid.

Educating Employees

Sustainability in business requires a group effort. Educating employees and raising awareness about sustainable practices should play a part in onboarding and ongoing training. Every aspect of a business can adopt practices that take sustainability into account, considering such things as water and waste management, the use of organic products that do not contain harmful chemicals, and reuse and recycling. In this way, sustainability can become a part of an organization’s culture.

Directing an organization toward sustainability requires key skills. Hospitality leaders must inspire the people in their organizations to embrace sustainability as they work toward meeting expectations. To do this, hospitality leaders must excel in open communication, clear goal setting, positivity, teamwork, and being open to new ideas.

Challenges and Trends

While sustainability in hospitality offers clear advantages, professionals in this industry must still overcome challenges to build sustainable strategies. For one, they must correct misconceptions that sustainability costs more money and that consumers do not care about it, when in fact becoming more energy-efficient saves money and developing a brand known as sustainable attracts more patrons.

Advances in technology related to renewable energy have also lowered the costs for using sources such as solar or geothermal energy. Additionally, tour operators who protect ecosystems that serve as their main attraction, while cooperating with and supporting local economies and culture, also win financially in the long run.
Some organizations worry sustainable practices can disrupt guest experience. However, if organizations carefully focus on what guests need and customize their services accordingly, they can improve this aspect of their business. Hersha Hospitality Trust, which owns 48 upscale hotels, has instituted sustainability initiatives that actually enhance customer experience, including:

• Smart thermostat technology in each room that allows guests to customize temperatures while lowering energy use
• Recycling options in guest rooms that allow guests to maintain their green habits while away from home
• Locally sourced foods and products that allow guests to support local vendors and try something unique to the area
• Free access to bicycles that allow guests to both get around and explore the new area while reducing their carbon footprints

Hospitality leaders can incorporate other current and emerging trends into their sustainability strategies, such as:

• Eliminating single-use plastic
• Creating paperless environments
• Sourcing from sustainable suppliers
• Purchasing green cleaning supplies
• Developing recycling programs

Explore How to Become a Hospitality Leader in Sustainability

“It is clear that tourism causes problems. However, leaders in hospitality and tourism have the power to be part of the solution, rather than being a part of the problem,” says. Alvarez. “The three pillars of sustainability — social, environmental, and economic — provide a roadmap for visionary leaders to transform their businesses and ensure that our cherished natural and cultural attractions are available for future generations of tourists to enjoy.”

The growing importance of sustainability in hospitality is obvious. Today’s hospitality organizations need leaders who can help implement sustainable practices and build a culture of social, environmental and economic responsibility. The University of Central Florida offers the following degree and certificate programs that prepare graduates to thrive in different areas of the industry:

• Destination Marketing and Management
• Event Management
• Hospitality and Tourism Management, MS
• Hospitality and Tourism Technologies
• Hospitality Management, BS
• Restaurant & Foodservice Management, BS
• Senior Living Management, BS
• Travel Technology and Analytics, MS

Explore how the University of Central Florida’s online leadership and management degrees and certificates can help aspiring hospitality leaders pursue their professional goals.

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A private dining room offers more than just a seclusion, it is an opportunity to wow your guests, make a lasting first impression with an enticing space and offers a relaxed and informal alternative to a formal meeting area.  

When it comes to selecting a private dining space, there’s a lot to take into account and many key elements to bring the event together. From theme selection to costings and dietary requirements, there is plenty to consider when arranging a private dining event.

To help you select the perfect event space, we’ve compiled our top tips for choosing a private dining room that will guarantee a memorable event for your guests.  

WHAT IS PRIVATE DINING?

Private dining offers the best of both worlds; luxurious restaurant-quality service combined with the intimacy of a private setting.

Private dining is the perfect setting for intimate occasions as well as larger parties. This style of dining enables you and your guests to enjoy a truly memorable fine dining experience in the intimacy of your own dedicated space.

WHAT EVENTS ARE SUITABLE FOR PRIVATE DINING?

Private dining is a truly versatile solution and can be tailored around any occasion. It boasts many elements to compliment an array of both corporate and personal events.

Offering a luxurious feel of both intimacy and exclusivity, private dining events offer an ideal solution for numerous occasions including:  

• Formal corporate dinners
• Awards ceremonies
• Meetings and conferences
• Intimate wedding celebrations
• Milestone birthdays
• Anniversaries
• Charity fundraisers

WHAT IS A PRIVATE DINING AREA?

A private dining area is a secluded space, section or room within a restaurant or venue where you can enjoy a dining experience with a select number of guests away from the main restaurant. They’re perfect for small weddings, birthday parties, and corporate meetings and events.

THE PASTEUR ROOM

This is a distinguished space for dining with stunning features, such as the tin ceiling tiles, statement floor and burnt iron chandelier.

THE SAMPLE ROOM

A refined ambience and character in abundance, the Sample Room can be used on its own for standalone receptions or with The Pasteur Room to create a separate arrival drinks and/or after party area.

THE CUTTING ROOM

This room is ideal for small awards receptions with space for standing catering or, in true cinema style, usherettes can deliver food to the auditorium. Perfect for a unique private dining experience to remember!

HOW TO CHOOSE A THEME FOR YOUR PRIVATE DINING EVENT  

Theming your event immediately elevates your occasion to an experience and plays a vital part in shaping the entire occasion.

Deciding on the overall event theme is a great first step and will tend to shape other key elements once established. From informal platters of nibbles, to formal events with silver service, the theme you choose will have a dramatic impact on the style, feel and atmosphere of the entire event.

PRIVATE DINING MENU SELECTION

The beauty of fine dining experiences is the versatility of the cuisine on offer, and when it comes to private dining, the food is the ultimate focal point. With so much focus on the culinary experience, it’s crucial the menu selection is perfectly suited to the occasion, your guests’ taste buds and, ultimately, your budget.

If you are looking for an informal, relaxed dining experience for your guests, sharing platters showcasing your favourite cuisine for a ‘tear and share’- style experience is the answer. This enables your guests to tempt their palettes with a variety of dishes and share in the group feasting experience.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a more formal affair, why not turn heads with a delicious set menu served on a silver service?

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

When planning your event, ensure you thoroughly research dietary requirements to ensure your loved ones are perfectly catered for.

Discussing vegetarian and vegan options, as well as specific allergies, will ensure all guests can enjoy the food, won’t feel alienated and can fully immerse themselves in the celebrations. 

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CREATING YOUR PRIVATE DINING EVENT

When choosing your private dining room, there a few key questions it’s beneficial to ask during the planning stages. Examples could include:

• What dining rooms are available?
• Are the dining rooms private or semi-private?
• What is the dining room capacity and what are the costs per head?
• What are the culinary options available for private dining, and what impact these options have on costings?
• How can the private dining room be decorated and themed for your bespoke event?

HOW MUCH IS PRIVATE DINING?

The bottom line is of pivotal importance when it comes to event planning. The overall cost per head will impact significantly on the size of venue you select, the style of cuisine and the number of guests you invite.

Ensure when looking at costs per head, drinks are also factored into the fee, so you don’t have any surprises when it comes to settling the bill.  

CHOOSING THE BEST PRIVATE DINING LOCATION

When planning a luxury private dining room experience, you want everyone on your guest list to be able to make it, so choosing the location of your event is crucial.

A centrally-located venue will not only be convenient for your guests but will also give plenty of options for transport links, increasing the likelihood that they’ll be able to attend.  A central venue, perhaps in London, also offers guests an array of options when it comes to a convenient overnight stay, with a range of options to suit preferences and budgets. 

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCE TODAY

The Grubstreet Author is a perfect venue to host your private dining event. Boasting three striking event spaces, our unique London venue offers sleek contemporary design alongside a setting oozing heritage. Our venues are as unique as you, and with exclusive private dining and award-winning contemporary cuisine, The Grubstreet Author is an impactful venue perfect for any occasion. Get in touch today to find out more and start planning your special event today.

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