Nominations for the 2026 BIH Spotlight Awards remain open. Discover why recognising outstanding hospitality professionals and businesses can create opportunities, increase visibility and celebrate the industry’s diverse talent.
The hospitality industry has always been rooted in resilience, creativity and community. Yet in today’s climate, those strengths are being tested more than ever. Rising operational costs, shifting consumer behaviour, increased competition and tighter margins have created an environment where survival alone can feel like a full-time job.
Changemakers is our three-part networking series created with Bibendum Wine to bring together hospitality leaders committed to building a more equitable and inclusive sector. Across the year, we explored culture, representation, leadership and belonging with inspiring speakers who shared honest insights and practical actions. This blog reflects on a year of learning, connection and powerful conversations shaping the future of hospitality.
The Young Innovators Food Conference brought together students from five local schools for a day of hands-on cooking, cultural representation and career inspiration in food and hospitality. Led by professional chefs, the event boosted confidence, skills and excitement about future opportunities in the industry.
Be Inclusive Hospitality’s Black History Month 2025 celebration, hosted in partnership with COREcruitment, brought together more than 80 hospitality professionals for an inspiring afternoon exploring leadership, culture, and community. Centred around the theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” the event featured dynamic discussions, storytelling, and a call to build lasting legacies of inclusion.
The 2025 BIH Spotlight Awards celebrated 16 exceptional winners across hospitality, food, and drink at London’s Quaglino’s. The night honoured creativity, resilience, and inclusion — showcasing the best in UK hospitality.
Discover the inspiring story of Pauline Lai-Thomas, owner of Blackpool’s iconic Michael Wan’s Mandarin and Wok Inn. From Hong Kong roots to shaping hospitality in the UK, Pauline shares her journey, community values, and hopes for the future of Chinese cuisine.
Discover Kaneda Pen, owner and chef of Mampen in Soho. Celebrating Cambodian flavours, resilience, and diversity in London’s hospitality scene.
As part of our ESEA Heritage Month Blog Series, we meet Kangni Dai, director of Space Specialty Coffee and Kafei Studio in Glasgow. He shares his journey from Wenling, China to Scotland, his passion for coffee, and his hopes for greater cultural exchange in the global coffee industry.
As part of our ESEA Heritage Month Blog Series, we meet Iain McPherson, award-winning bartender and owner of Panda & Sons in Edinburgh. Recognised globally as one of the industry’s most influential figures, Iain shares his journey, cultural heritage, and hopes for the future of hospitality.
