Bringing you a compilation of the biggest trends facing the industry from some of the most knowledgeable industry leaders, recorded live at HRC, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week 2025.

Raise Your Glass: Key Drink Trends for 2025

What and how Brits are drinking is evolving. From cutting-edge cocktails to the latest in no- and low-alcohol innovation, consumer preferences are shifting, sustainability is reshaping production, and technology is influencing how we serve and experience beverages. This expert panel will dive into the key drink trends set to define 2025, exploring everything from premiumisation and functional ingredients to the rise of experiential drinking. Whether you’re in bars, restaurants, or hospitality venues, join us for data on the latest drink trends and to discuss how venues can stay one step ahead of customer demand.

Speakers:

  • Louise Jooste (KAM)

  • Edward Fryer (Fuller, Smith & Turner)

  • Emma Sharpe (Mitchells & Butlers PLC)

  • Karl Chessell (CGA)

  • Paddy Gardiner (Côte Restaurants)


 

Celebrating 90 Years of HRC: A Journey Through Food Trends and Foodservice

Join us as we mark the 90th anniversary of HRC with a fascinating exploration of food trends and the evolution of foodservice. This special session covers food trends through the years - and into the future. Expect a lively discussion on how culinary trends have shaped the industry over the decades. Gain fresh insights into today’s food landscape by understanding its past, all while celebrating this milestone edition of HRC!

Speakers:

  • John Cunningham (Foodservice Equipment Association)
  • Ian Simpson
  • Miranda Quantrill (Westminster College)
  • Simon Stenning (FutureFoodservice.com)


 

Breaking Boundaries: Adejoké Bakare in Conversation with Julian George on Culinary Innovation and Redefining Success

Join Adejoké Bakare, the groundbreaking owner of Chishuru and the first Black British woman to earn a Michelin star, for an inspiring keynote conversation with Julian George, Founder and Director of Future Plate and an HRC Ambassador. Together, they will explore Joké’s extraordinary journey in the culinary world—her rapid transition from avid home cook to winner of the Brixton Kitchen competition and now building her Michelin-starred restaurant. An advocate for West African cooking, Chishuru spurns the fine dining label in favour of a homely and welcoming setting.

In this dynamic conversation, Julian and Joké will delve into the intersections of culture, authenticity and the evolving culinary landscape. This session is a must for chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals seeking inspiration and actionable insights on breaking boundaries, embracing innovation, and fostering inclusive practices in the industry. Attendees will leave empowered by Joké’s pioneering spirit and motivated to redefine their own paths to success.

Speakers:

  • Julian George - The Future Plate

  • Adejoké Bakare - Chishuru


 

From Prison to the Plate: Kris Hall and Jon Watts in Conversation on Transformation and Culinary Redemption

Join Kris Hall, Founder of The Burnt Chef Project, and celebrity chef Jon Watts, for a powerful fireside chat on resilience, redemption, and transformation in the hospitality industry. Kris, an advocate for mental health awareness in the culinary world, and John, a former prisoner, will discuss Jon’s remarkable journey from incarceration to working with Jamie Oliver and becoming a professional chef. In this candid conversation, Kris and Jon will explore the power of second chances, the importance of mental health in the kitchen, and how both personal and professional transformations can shape a career in food. This session offers invaluable lessons on overcoming adversity, breaking down barriers, and using the kitchen as a space for healing, growth, and success.

Speakers:

  • Kris Hall - The Burnt Chef Project

  • Jon Watts - Professional Chef