3rd April 2009

UK Restaurant Leader Summit 2009 - Market Intelligence is Key

Date: 9 June 2009
Location: Millennium Mayfair Hotel, Grosvenor Square, London, W1
Content: Leaders and influencers debating the current and future climate of the industry; opportunities and challenges; impact of the economic climate; current and future landscape

“In the current difficult climate, information and innovation are essential business tools for survival,” says Amar Thapen, Allegra Strategies. “Throughout the day speakers and panellists will explore and debate the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

“In particular, the event will examine the short and long-term impact of the current economic crisis on the restaurant sector. The event will also give valuable opportunities to network and interact with leading industry decision makers and high-profile entrepreneurs.”

Confirmed speakers and panellists for the event include: Mark Phillips (CEO of Paramount Holdings), David Page (Chairman, Clapham House Group), Luke Johnson (Risk Capital Partners / Channel 4 Chairman), Tom Peck (Head of Consumer Insight, McDonalds UK), Ian Neill (Chairman, Wagamama), Theo Randall (Chef Patron Theo Randall), Robin Rowland (CEO, YO! Sushi), Jamie Barber (MD, Steam Roller Restaurants/ hush, Villandry), Simon Blagden (MD, Jamie’s Italian), Bob Silk (Hospitality relationship Director, Barclays Commercial) and Jeffrey Young (MD, Allegra Strategies).

Steve Gotham, senior analyst, Allegra Strategies says: “The economic slowdown is leading to a shake-out in the restaurant sector, in which only the most skilfully managed, better funded and more customer-centric operators will survive.  However, economic influences are cyclical and the favourable long-term trends towards greater eating out activity will drive renewed market growth. There will be a recessionary legacy related to customer value expectations, but issues around customer experience, convenience, healthier eating, provenance and sustainability will inevitably work their way back up the agendas of both consumers and management.”  - Steve Gotham, Senior Analyst, Allegra Strategies.

The Summit will also feature The Restaurant Leader Research Report 2009. A complimentary copy will be given to each delegate at the event. The conference will be followed by a charity gala dinner – details available on request.

Tickets are currently priced at the discounted rate of £385 plus VAT. This price is valid until 23 April 2009.

For further information visit the UK Restaurant Leader Summit website.

Alternatively, call Amar Thapen at Allegra on 020 7691 8843 or email him at athapen@allegra.co.uk