31 Aug - 3 Sep 2026 | MCEC Melbourne
Hospitality is one of the most complex business models in Australia. In today’s economic climate, venues with strong systems consistently outperform those relying on instinct or firefighting. According to James O’Connell, Founder of The Hospitality Company, operators who embrace systemisation gain clarity, control and commercial stability in a way that passion alone can’t deliver. Hospitality
Commercial kitchen profitability, Rising costs, shrinking margins and constant operational pressure are redefining how kitchens need to operate. According to Andrew Briese, Founder of Cooking the Books, profitability now relies less on instinct and more on discipline, consistency and intelligent systems. His core message is simple: a kitchen becomes profitable
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t a future concept for hospitality. It’s already reshaping how operators run venues, connect with guests, and manage their business. Leaders across booking software, staffing technology and multi-venue operations agree: operators who begin experimenting now gain a clear commercial edge. Rather than replacing human connection, AI is
Across Australia, women are reshaping the leadership landscape of hospitality – not by mirroring traditional models, but by introducing new standards of empathy, accountability, confidence and community. Their insights reveal a shift happening across the industry: hospitality performs stronger when leadership is human, values-driven and unashamedly authentic. From overcoming self-doubt
The foodservice and hospitality landscape is evolving, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by sharper expectations, smarter operations and more informed consumers. Across venues, staying connected to emerging trends isn’t about chasing what’s new, it’s about understanding how customer behaviour, technology and supply chains are reshaping
Research reveals that 95% of purchasing decisions are subconscious, driven by emotional responses rather than rational analysis (Research and Metric). It’s a jaw-dropping statistic and one which cannot be overlooked. Increasingly, successful brands are tapping into this insight, focusing on culture, community and emotive storytelling to capture the attention of
Small businesses don’t need huge budgets to make a big marketing impact — in fact, there are plenty of powerful, free ways to reach new customers and build loyalty. From email marketing and PR, to collaborations with local businesses, the most effective strategies are rooted in storytelling, community and showing
This December, local restaurants are joining forces for DineSmart, a national campaign supporting people experiencing homelessness. Diners are invited to add a small $2 donation to their bill and every donation stays local, supporting grassroots organisations providing food relief, housing support, domestic violence assistance, and more. Over two decades, the
These days, the desire to build authentic business relationships is no longer considered an endearing characteristic of a company, now it’s a necessity in getting an edge on the competition. Modern brands are working hard to respond to current consumer demands, who want to feel valued by the brands they
Sponsored content provided by Federal Hospitality Equipment Every great meal begins long before it reaches the plate. For chefs, creativity isn’t limited to recipes — it extends to the tools, equipment, and environments that make their ideas possible. From bustling cafés and bakeries to large commercial kitchens, the right setup
