Thoughts & Takeaways
Welcome to the Talking Hospitality blog: a place for practical insight and useful ideas for people working in and leading hospitality.
Some pieces are designed to make you think. Some are here to give you clear actions you can take back to your team. Most do a bit of both.
Some pieces are designed to make you think. Some are here to give you clear actions you can take back to your team. Most do a bit of both.
April 14, 2025
Is Podcasting Outgrowing Podcasts? A Talking Hospitality Perspective
The podcasting landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. What began as a medium for audio storytelling has expanded into a multifaceted industry encompassing video content, live events, merchandise, and more. This evolution prompts a cr…
April 7, 2025
Talking Hospitality Season 5: A Deep Dive into Hospitality’s Key Challenges
Season 5 of Talking Hospitality has officially launched, bringing fresh perspectives, expert insights, and actionable advice for hospitality leaders. This season is already proving to be more than just entertaining discussions—it’s designed to educ…
March 31, 2025
Private Chefs: The lastest trend in Hospitality
Restauranters Turn to Private Chef Work: A New Revenue Stream Amid Economic Pressures The UK hospitality industry is adapting to financial pressures in a way that might surprise some: restauranters are increasingly working as private chefs to suppl…
March 24, 2025
AI Action Summit in Paris: What It Means for Hospitality
The AI Action Summit in Paris has sparked global discussions about artificial intelligence, ethics, and economic transformation. Co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the event gathered global tech l…
March 17, 2025
Why You Should Respond To Positive Reviews
In the vibrant world of hospitality, feedback serves as a cornerstone for growth and excellence. While negative reviews often capture attention, fostering and celebrating positive customer feedback can significantly uplift both staff morale and the…
March 10, 2025
British Women In Hospitality
As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, it's the perfect time to spotlight the remarkable British women who have shaped the hospitality industry. From pioneering hoteliers to culinary innovators, these women have broken barriers, redefine…
March 3, 2025
Women In Hospitality : Women's History Month
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we thought it would be fun to take a look at some of the remarkable women who have shaped the hospitality industry. These women have broken barriers, redefined service excellence, and paved the way for future g…
Feb. 24, 2025
What Can Hospitality Do To Understand Gen Z's
Recent discussions have highlighted a concerning trend: Generation Z (those born between the late 1990s and early 2010s) is experiencing unprecedented levels of depression and anxiety. A viral TikTok video by Christian Bonnier suggests this may be d…
Feb. 17, 2025
What is Experiential Leisure (And Why It’s Changing Hospitality)?
If you’ve been paying attention to the way hospitality is evolving, you’ll have noticed a shift. It’s no longer enough to serve great food or offer a comfortable bed—guests want something more. They’re looking for moments that matter, memories they …
Feb. 10, 2025
Valentine’s Day: Origins and Opportunities
Valentine’s Day is one of the most significant dates in the hospitality calendar, and for good reason. It’s a day when people seek out unique experiences, indulgent meals, and romantic getaways, giving hospitality businesses an excellent opportunit…
Feb. 3, 2025
Hospitality’s Biggest Challenge: Experience vs. Execution
Season 5 of Talking Hospitality has officially launched, bringing fresh perspectives, expert insights, and actionable advice for hospitality leaders. This season isn’t just about entertaining discussions—it’s designed to educate and empower you to t…
Jan. 27, 2025
Are Digital IDs in Hospitality A Good Thing?
The UK government has announced plans to introduce legislation allowing the use of digital identification (ID) for purchasing alcohol in venues such as pubs, restaurants, and supermarkets. Is this a good or bad thing, and what are the implications?…
Jan. 20, 2025
Tackling Food Waste and Poverty: What Plan Zheroes is Doing Today
Food waste is a staggering issue in the UK. Each year, around 9.5 million tonnes of food are wasted, while 8.4 million people struggle with food insecurity—the equivalent of the entire population of London. For businesses in the hospitality industry…
Jan. 13, 2025
The Future of Hospitality and Events: Hybrid Solutions and Resilience in 2025
In the early 2020s, the hospitality and events sectors faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Paul Cook, a seasoned events professional, provided insights during that period, emphasising the rapid shift from in-person gathering…
Jan. 6, 2025
Embracing Change in Hospitality: Lessons from Taiwan
Recently I was in Taiwan. Standing in the streets of Taipei, I saw firsthand how cultures meet and mingle – East and West, tradition and modernity. Amidst the blend of bustling markets and serene temples, I was struck by the quiet reminder of how f…
Dec. 30, 2024
Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail and How You Can Make Change Stick
As we turn the page to a new year, many of us embrace the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions. Whether it’s promising to hit the gym, eat healthier, or achieve ambitious business goals, the start of a new year feels like the perfect time for…
Dec. 16, 2024
Supporting Yourself This Christmas: Resources for When You’re Struggling
The holiday season is a time of joy for many, but for others, it can be a period of immense stress, loneliness, or sadness. In the hospitality industry, where long hours, high-pressure environments, and demanding schedules are the norm, Christmas c…
Dec. 9, 2024
Supporting Hospitality This Christmas: A Spotlight on Hospitality Action
In the height of Christmas and the festive season, it's a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. But for many in the hospitality industry, Christmas can also amplify financial strain, mental health struggles, and the challenges of an already de…
Dec. 2, 2024
Enhancing Safety in Hospitality: Tackling Sexual Offences in UK Licensed Venues
Recent reports have raised concerns about the increase in sexual offences within licensed venues in the UK. High-profile cases and rising police statistics highlight a worrying trend, with offences often linked to environments where alcohol is cons…
Nov. 25, 2024
Alcohol Spiking and Venue Safety: Essential Tips for Hospitality Businesses
Alcohol spiking is an issue that’s been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently. As awareness grows, so do the expectations on hospitality venues, especially those in nightlife. New regulations are ramping up the need for safety protocol…
Nov. 18, 2024
Managing Rising Costs in UK Hospitality: Strategies to Stay Profitable
UK hospitality businesses are grappling with a challenging landscape. The combination of inflation, escalating energy prices, and soaring supply costs has pushed operational expenses to new heights. According to UKHospitality, operating costs in the…
Nov. 12, 2024
The Designated Premises Supervisor: Essential Guide for Licensed Venues
Operating a licensed venue involves more than simply supplying or selling alcohol; it requires a key individual, the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS), who ensures that all legal, social, and operational standards are met. For any hospitality est…
Nov. 5, 2024
Key Budget Highlights for Hospitality Businesses 2024 & How It Impacts Your Business
The UK Chancellor’s latest budget has stirred up significant conversation, with changes that could have long-lasting effects on our industry. In particular, tax hikes and rising wage costs stand out, impacting smaller, labour-heavy businesses like o…
Oct. 28, 2024
Tackling Staff Shortages in UK Hospitality: 5 Tips to Boost Recruitment and Retention
In recent years, UK hospitality businesses have faced a storm of challenges affecting their ability to recruit and retain skilled staff. Brexit’s impact on the workforce and the residual effects of Covid-19 have made it more challenging to maintain …