APRIL 2024

MCA’s April edition reflects on the prestigious MCA Hospitality Awards and celebrates the outstanding concepts, individuals, and deals that defined success in the sector this year. This month, we also hear from Tom Gatehouse, senior trends strategist at Egg Soldiers, who explores how an increasing demand for globally inspired eating experiences is leading operators to forage even further afield for new flavours. Coverage from the Food to Go Conference features comment from Wingstop, Ole & Steen, Pret, Leon, Krispy Kreme, Fireaway, Joe & The Juice and Taco Bell. Interviews come from Hertfordshire-based pub operator McMullen’s, who toast buoyant trading in the capital, amidst the resurgence of tourism and the office Christmas party, and with Cornish Bakery CEO Steve Grocutt, who explains his strategy to build a bigger business that thinks and feels like an independent. Valuable insights from industry commentators Peter Martin, Dominic Walsh, and David Read include an exploration of the multifaceted vision of Caffè Nero’s founder, Gerry Ford, and why operators should consider revitalising their wine lists to cater to changing consumer preferences among young drinkers.