Casual Dining show postponed until September 2021

The Casual Dining trade show, which was set to take place in March next year, has been postponed amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and government restrictions. The event, which is dedicated to the casual dining sector, will now take place between 23-24 September 2021 at ExCeL London, its organiser Diversified Communications UK confirmed. Although the three shows will “maintain separate identities and focus”, an “even greater range” of products and customers will be available to buyers and exhibitors at the event. It comes as Diversified Communications UK said the “magnitude and unprecedented scale” of the pandemic and the subsequent government restrictions has “affected the lives and livelihoods of people and businesses around the world”. It added that the furlough scheme, which has affected its exhibitors and visitors, has “caused further difficulties for firms to plan their stands and product launches at this time”. Eva Ellis, event manager for Casual Dining said: “While we were hopeful that the current tough measures on restricted social interaction would be lifted by March, there are still too many questions surrounding hotels, travel, social distancing, and individual company policies, to make it viable to run Casual Dining in March 2021. “Clearly, the best, safest and most responsible option for everyone involved is to wait and host an even better show in September 2021 alongside lunch! and Commercial Kitchen.” Chris Brazier, group event director for the shows, said: “All three shows focus on innovation and inspiration for hospitality operators. “There is a great potential for collaboration and there is certainly more of a crossover of attendees than ever before as innovative and resilient brands pivot to become multichannel operators in testing times.” He added: “We are thrilled to offer this strategic co-locate and feel that all three events will benefit hugely from this move. While all three will remain separate shows, they will in effect create one much larger hospitality event for the industry at the time that it needs it most.” Mark Teed, head of food at Star Pubs & Bars, said: “After turbulent times, Casual Dining 2021 will be the place to share new ideas, pursue new opportunities and celebrate new game changers in our industry. “We need to get together, find innovation and support each other more than ever. See you at Casual Dining 2021,” says Steven Mangleshot, executive chef at Wagamama.” Steve Holmes, CEO of Azzurri Group, added: “We’re looking forward to the most important Casual Dining show yet in 2021.”