As Ginger Hospitality’s Key Accounts & Systems Manager, I am always looking for opportunities to stay ahead in the hospitality industry. The Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) 2025 event is the perfect platform for this, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and businesses to discuss the evolving hospitality landscape. With my background in hospitality management and recruitment, I am excited to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the sector.

 

Engaging with Industry Leaders

One of the sessions I am particularly looking forward to is the exclusive interview with Kate Nicholls OBE, Chief Executive of UKHospitality. Since 2018, she has been a key advocate for the industry, working closely with government councils to represent the interests of hospitality businesses. Kate will be sharing insights on the challenges and opportunities ahead, providing an invaluable perspective for operators navigating the ever-changing landscape. Given her experience in strategic affairs and policy, I am keen to hear how businesses can prepare for what lies ahead in 2025 and beyond.

Another session high on my list is the Hospitality Leaders Panel, featuring Amber Wood (Chief Operating Officer, New World Trading Company), Enrico Pireddu (Managing Director, Big Mamma Group), and Neal Bates (Managing Director, Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana). These leaders have driven major brand expansions and implemented innovative business models, and I am eager to hear their thoughts on topics such as growth strategies, inclusivity, and sustainability. With Lucy Noone Blake chairing the discussion, it promises to be a dynamic and insightful conversation.

 

Exploring the Evolution of Alcohol-Free Alternatives

Another area of personal interest at NRB 2025 is the development of alcohol-free drinks. The Alcohol Free Drinks Company has been making strides in providing high-quality, alcohol-free options to consumers, and I am keen to see how they are addressing market demand. Having spent years working in hospitality, I know first-hand how important it is for venues to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

The statistics speak for themselves—34% of people have reduced their alcohol consumption since the Covid crisis, and the UK’s ‘NoLo’ market has grown by over 50% to £217 million. Despite this, many venues still struggle with availability. This is why the work of the Alcohol Free Drinks Company is so important. Their partnership with The Sober Butterfly Collective to launch B0LD events, an initiative focused on alcohol-free bars and teetotal tasting events, is something I find particularly exciting. It’s clear that inclusivity in drink offerings is becoming a priority, and I am eager to see how businesses can better cater to this growing demand.

 

Why The Northern Restaurant & Bar is a Must-Attend Event

For me, NRB 2025 is more than just an industry event—it is an opportunity to connect with influential figures, explore innovative concepts, and gain valuable insights that can help businesses thrive. Whether it’s understanding market challenges, learning from industry leaders, or discovering emerging trends, this event will offer a wealth of knowledge that I can bring back to my work at Ginger Hospitality.

As I prepare to attend, I am looking forward to engaging in meaningful discussions, uncovering fresh ideas, and finding new ways to support businesses and professionals in achieving their goals. The hospitality industry is always evolving, and staying informed is key to staying ahead.