EP – promoting a progressive agenda for an industry which is world-class

There will always be plaudits and critics of any consultancy which does champion major causes, which is completely natural and simply comes with the territory, but EP’s objective has long been to promote a progressive agenda.

The industry has enjoyed a golden era, from the 1990s through to the pandemic, when it has risen above many other industries and shown itself to be world-class. However, history often shows that success will ebb and flow and it is important that the industry continues to challenge itself, to debate, learn and evolve. EP was originally founded as many leaders felt there was no forum to discuss major issues. It seems strange today but back in 2005, there were very few objective discussion forums which did ask honest questions of the industry. Over the last seventeen years, debate and discussion has become an accepted norm across many forums. This illustrates the industry’s strength but as the pandemic passes, it is now time to rebuild and ask new questions.

· Last week, we published an interview with Neely Mozawala, the founder of No Hungry Staff. Isn’t there a serious problem when doctors and NHS staff need to work 12-hour night shifts with no access to hot food? It may not be on top of all the problems which the NHS face but is symbolic of the need for change. Great food service in support of people does lead to better care and productivity.

· The above is very similar to EP’s long-running “Fuelling Productivity” campaign which has argued the importance of how great food service can support improved productivity and well-being. The food service sector often gets derailed by discussions over its models rather than focus on the important role which it plays in daily life.

· On the 21st June, EP is supporting a conference on Vested which champions a more collaborative approach towards outsourcing.

· EP is promoting a food sustainability agenda, Gastronomica, which aims to create a global alliance which does share knowledge and ideas from companies from across the world. Food sustainability is one of the major agenda items for all and one of our aims is that Gastronomica can act as a guiding forum to gain insight and build collaboration.

· Another major board agenda is supply and procurement. EP is delighted to working with Prestige Purchasing to host a major event in December each year which does look at this central topic as well as regularly sharing knowledge and insight leading up to the event.

· EP has long promoted new thinking in the development of emerging leaders as it is so important to see new leaders break through and talent be supported. This has included the radical ideal of taking lessons from the worlds of sport and business to help develop the learning and mindset of younger talent.

· EP has argued for a more progressive approach in higher education and for new models to emerge.

· EP is proud to work with Rapport to promote the value and importance of service. Service is a special skill set and mind-set which can be the basis of great hospitality.

· EP has argued on the re-emergence of the chef patron and the fact that the consumer is more focused on genuine experiences rather than being influenced just by the brand.

· EP has supported and promoted entrepreneurs and their innovation and thinking to challenge and change the industry as well as to help support small businesses grow.

There is a new landscape starting to take shape post-pandemic. It will see change across all disciplines and within the full spectrum of the industry. The above discussions will all take their own course but it is quite right that the debates take place and that the knowledge is shared. Our role has been to raise the issues and provide a platform to promote the discussions.

EP remains steadfast in its belief that the industry is world-class. It is a sign of its strength that so many are coming together to debate these issues.

If you would like to learn more or be involved, then please contact lauran.bush@epmagazine.co.uk

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The psychology of business is changing. It will become less alpha; more focused on people, productivity and external clients.