PizzaExpress CEO Paula Mackenzie, Wagamama CEO Thomas Heier and Big Mamma Group co-founder Victor Lugger will discuss the evolution of their brands, how they are nurturing people and culture, as well as managing customer behaviour and attitudes, at MCA’s Restaurant Conference next month.
Taking place at the The Pullman, London St Pancras, on November 9, the conference will offer insight into the vision and strategy of some of the most dynamic multisite operators in the sector.
Thomas Heier will give an update on how Wagamama is navigating a challenging market and delivering an authentic guest experience, and explore how the Pan-Asian casual dining brand is remaining relevant and contemporary as it approaches its 30th anniversary.
He will also share his approach to navigating a challenging eating out market, delivering an authentic customer experience to specific guest segments, and nurturing a happy and motivated workforce.
Behind some of London’s most talked about restaurant openings, Big Mamma Group’s Victor Lugger will share why the group bet big on post-Brexit with a collection of highly individual, immersive restaurants across London and Europe - and how they developed the Sunday payment app, which is now used by over 3,000 restaurants worldwide.
The programme includes a keynote Q&A session with Jane O’Riordan, chair for Turtle Bay, Red Engine, and Caravan Restaurants. In a fireside chat, she will discuss the experiences that have shaped her career to date, her passion for technology and innovation, and the growth potential for the three businesses she chairs.
After 18 months in charge of casual dining originator PizzaExpress, Paula MacKenzie will share progress on re-energising the much-loved British institution and update on the brand & business transformation, the extensive design-led restaurant investment programme, and its industry leading loyalty proposition.
Also speaking on the day is industry veteran David Page, who will share insights into building one of the UK’s foremost pizza chains, Franco Manca, and securing a £93m deal for Fulham Shore.
Other highlights of the day include AlixPartners MD Graeme Smith, who will examine the financing and M&A landscape facing operators, alongside insight from Katie Prowse, senior insight manager at Lumina Intelligence, who will review the impact of the cost of living crisis on hospitality businesses.
The day will also feature sessions with operators such as Casa do Frango, Oowee, Tonkotsu, Harts Group, German Doner Kebab, Rosa’s Thai, and Leon.
To find out more and book tickets, please click here.
