Working in the hospitality industry means you need to stay on top of the latest trends and developments. An industry that is always evolving requires its professionals to constantly update their knowledge. Here are some tips for hospitality workers to stay current:
Read Industry Publications
One of the best ways to keep up with what’s happening in hospitality is to read industry magazines and websites. These publications offer news, analysis, trends, advice, and more tailored specifically to the hotel, restaurant, travel, and tourism sectors.
Some top publications for UK hospitality professionals include:
- The Caterer – Leading source for hospitality news and in-depth features. Offers both print and online content.
- Restaurant (Previously Big Hospitality) – Award-winning hospitality news site reporting on latest openings, acquisitions, and innovations.
- Institute of Hospitality Magazine – Published by the Institute of Hospitality, covering developments in hospitality education and the profession. It’s published quarterly.
Follow Key Industry Figures
Connect with thought leaders in hospitality on social media and through their blogs to get their latest perspectives. Leading chefs, hoteliers, restauranteurs, and other experts provide a wealth of wisdom.
Some top UK hospitality figures to follow include:
- Albert Roux – Legendary chef and restaurateur
- Angela Hartnett – Acclaimed chef and restaurant owner
- Gordon Ramsay – Celebrity chef and TV personality
- Robin Hutson – Chairman of Home Grown Hotels & Restaurants
- Thomasina Miers – Chef-founder of Mexican chain Wahaca
- Michel Roux Jr. – Michelin-starred chef and proprietor of Le Gavroche restaurant
- Claude Bosi – Renowned chef behind Bibendum restaurant and others
- Sat Bains – Award-winning chef proprietor of Restaurant Sat Bains
- Jason Atherton – Celebrity chef with restaurants across Europe and Asia
- Clare Smyth – First female UK chef to hold 3 Michelin stars
- Simon Rogan – Progressive chef behind innovative restaurants like L’Enclume
Following these and other influential industry figures on social media or through their blogs/websites gives you exposure to their inspiring stories, valuable insights, and wealth of experience at the highest levels. It’s an easy way to absorb expert knowledge and perspectives.
Attend Industry Events
Conferences, seminars, exhibitions, and other hospitality events allow you to engage with the sector. Attending these events lets you network, exchange ideas, check out new products/services, hear expert speakers, and more.
Top hospitality events in the UK include:
- Hotelympia – UK’s biggest hospitality trade exhibition
- The Caterer Summit – Hospitality conference featuring big-name speakers
- Restaurant Show – Major restaurant industry trade show
- Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Show – Leading hospitality event with talks, exhibits, and competitions
Join a Professional Association
Becoming part of an industry association or group connects you to a community of hospitality professionals. These organisations provide educational resources, career development opportunities, and ways to engage with peers.
Top groups include:
- Institute of Hospitality – Offers training, events, accreditation, and research
- UKHospitality – A leading trade body for the hospitality sector
- British Institute of Innkeeping – Professional body for accommodation and hospitality
- Academy of Food and Wine Service – Promotes professionalism in food and wine service
Staying current in such a dynamic sector takes effort. But utilising the right resources will ensure you continue to grow your skills and knowledge as a hospitality professional. The opportunities to advance your expertise are endless if you know where to look.
