Leading figures from businesses including Greggs, SSP, Caffè Nero and Itsu will be speaking at the 2018 MCA Food-to-go Conference.

This year’s event, taking place at the Ham Yard Hotel, London, on 7 February, will analyse changing consumer behaviour and its implications for industry stakeholders.

Operators will talk about their growth plans, as well as the operational, marketing and supply challenges and opportunities set to define the future of the sector.

The conference is described by organiser MCA – which is owned by British Baker publisher William Reed Business Media – as an “unmissable event for fast-food outlets, cafés, supermarkets, convenience stores and their suppliers”.

This year’s speakers include:

Julian Metcalfe, founder of Itsu, on why 2018 will be a big year for his Asian-inspired concept, including how it has become a £100m-turnover business and its plans for further growth and its launch in the US.

Gerry Ford, founder and group chief executive of Caffè Nero, on the continuing international growth of this business across eight countries.

Hannah Squirrell, customer director at Greggs, will take a look behind the success of Greggs’ Rewards loyalty app, and how it contributes to the company placing the customer at the heart of its business.

Simon Burdess, the first director of foodservice at Waitrose, on how the retailer is evolving its food and beverage offer and increasing its in-store foodservice options to meet consumer needs.

Jonathan Robinson, business development director at SSP, will discuss how the company selects its food and beverage partners, and the challenges and opportunities it faces working in high footfall locations.

For further information visit www.foodtogoconference.co.uk

For delegate enquiries or event sponsorship opportunities contact michael.blakesley@mca-insight.com, or phone 01293 610334.