Overview
Who is this for?
TUCO Members who would like to explore the Winter Conference Global Food Trends topic further by visiting restaurants and sites in and around Manchester, to experience a warm Northern welcome and immerse themselves in some great regional food experiences. The study tour will commence on the morning of the 15th of January, following the TUCO Winter Conference; therefore, this event is ideal for those attending the conference who would like to extend their learning and development experience.
Why should I take part?
In the challenges faced by hospitality in recent years, one particular restaurant sector, food halls, appears to have been able to weather the storm better than traditional restaurants, mainly thanks to lower operating costs, flexible space designs, and developer/landlord partnerships. The ability to adapt operations and work in partnership with landlords, lenders, and local governments has mitigated some of the risk for the restaurant industry. For those that may not have made it through, the food hall model, with its low cost of entry, has served as a platform to launch / relaunch many restaurant businesses.
The number of food halls across Europe has increased dramatically and shows few signs of letting up. Across the continent the total number is up by 50 per cent over the past seven years, with 135 now open and a further seven scheduled to open for soon, according to a recent Food Halls of Europe report by advisor Cushman & Wakefield. “A successful food hall is, naturally, one where quality food is a priority. The best also draw from the unique characteristics of its location’s history, architecture and culture,” and Manchester is no exception.
The model lends itself well to the the University Catering sector with many synergies in a number of ways, shifting consumer behaviour and demands for new food trends, lower cost solutions and borrows its features from street food culture and international modes of communal eating, encouraging diners to try new flavours, sit next to strangers and enjoy a meal in a casual environment.
Manchester is a city whose identity is evolving and the food and drink culture is thriving. With new restaurants, bars, gastropubs, micro breweries and cafes opening weekly, the city is establishing itself as one of the UK’s most exciting foodie destinations.
How will it help me?
During the event, you will…
- Network and brainstorm with TUCO members from other institutions who are facing the same challenges as you
- Visit Manchester University's catering and events operation
- Discover some interesting food and sustainability initiatives that can be applied to your own institution
- Visit suppliers and catering sites who embrace the sustainable ethos and / or global food trends
Following the event you will...
- Be able to introduce food trends at your institution
What’s included?
- Accommodation
- All travel whilst on the tour
- Food and drink at all establishments during the tour
- All visits
What’s not included?
Anything not listed on the itinerary including, but not limited to:
- Travel to and from the tour
- Additional drinks, room service, etc.
Provisional Itinerary:
Final itineraries will be uploaded to your Dashboard approx. 1 week prior to Tour commencement.
Winter Conference:
Please note this page is for the study tour following the Conference only.
