Panel Discusses Future of the Away From Home Market

Industry Leaders Highlight Innovation and Restaurant Evolution

Leading hospitality and catering figures recently joined an IGD panel event, coinciding with the launch of the new Away From Home insight service. This service is designed to provide the industry with unique, targeted, and timely insight and foresight covering the entire UK Away From Home market, giving operators the tools they need to navigate a shifting landscape.

The panel, moderated by Nicola Knight, Head of Away From Home Insight at IGD, included: 

• Spencer Craig, founder and CEO of Pure
• Stewart Down, business owner of Black Bear Burger and 20ft Fried Chicken
• Harry Ridley, head of technology at Levy UK & Ireland
• David Marazzi, venue director at O2 Arena under Levy UK & Ireland

Despite persistent cost pressures and the challenge of slow real-term consumer recovery, the overall mood among panellists was optimistic. The group emphasised innovation, agility, and the imperative to deliver value within the restaurant sector and the broader hospitality industry. The discussion covered how technology, including AI-driven tools and data-driven decision-making, is being used to drive efficiency and enhance customer experiences in restaurants and other venues.

Another key topic was the rising prominence of weight loss drugs, which panellists identified as a trend likely to influence menu offerings and consumer habits in restaurants moving forward. Throughout the conversation, adaptability and a willingness to leverage new insights were highlighted as essential for restaurants and hospitality operators seeking growth in a competitive and rapidly changing environment.

The panel concluded with a consensus: for the restaurant sector and the entire Away From Home market, responsiveness, customer experience, and harnessing insight are crucial for navigating uncertainty and achieving sustainable success.

For more information about the new IGD Away From Home service, to sign up for the newsletter or contact the team, click here.