TO THE TABLE EUROPE. Food and Beverage Professionals. Seminar programme for the next event.

Your seminar host:

Heleri is an experienced hospitality moderator and chairs the seminar sessions at TO THE TABLE Europe.

Heleri Rande Hospitality Strategist, Writer, Speaker, Presenter

Tuesday 11 May 2027

09:00 - 09:50

Seminar Presentation: Creating a Distinctive Culinary Identity

Christian Knerr Senior Director of Culinary EMEA – Marriott International

Gordon Watton Global Executive Chef - Ennismore

Miguel Teixeira Corporate Culinary & Restaurants Director – Corinthia Hotels

With culinary strategy at the forefront of brand identity and guest experience, our experts will be discussing concept development while factoring in the essential ingredients of authenticity, storytelling and local relevance. We will explore how hospitality brands are creating distinctive culinary identities that resonate with guests, stand out in increasingly competitive markets and deliver long-term value beyond trends.

Tuesday 11 May 2027

13:40 - 14:30

Seminar Presentation: Destination Dining in the Experience Economy

Stefan Meinich-Bache CEO - Classic Norway Hotels

Guy Heksch Chief Operating Officer – Omnam Group

Our experts are creators of destination-led dining concepts, responding to an increasingly experience-driven market. Whether breathing new life into historic properties or celebrating local environmental or cultural drawcards, we will discuss how our panellists are successfully weaving together architecture, culture, community and culinary to optimise authenticity - crafting restaurant concepts that creates emotional connection, to build loyalty from both travellers and local audiences.

Wednesday 12 May 2027

09:00 - 09:50

Seminar Presentation: Balancing Trends & Expectations for the Future Guest

Giorgi Mindiashvili Global Vice President Food & Beverage – Radisson Hotels

Victoria Aubry Global Director of Food & Beverage - Midscale & Economy Brands - Accor

Douglas Taylor Vice President Guest Experience - Carnival UK

Hospitality is constantly evolving, in tune with guest expectations and emerging trends. Our industry experts have identified several key factors that intersect to shape the guest mindset. Wellness has evolved beyond the spa into a more holistic part of the guest experience, while sustainability must be tangible with local food sourcing and waste reduction becoming expected. Technology and automation are welcomed by the next generation of travellers, enabling teams to streamline operations and focus on human interaction where it matters most. With value-driven hospitality on the rise, guests are still seeking local connection and authentic experiences but expect to spend smarter with more flexibility. Our panel will explore these trends and more, discussing how hospitality brands can strike the right balance.