Helen Grant MP announces idea at BHA summit
“This is a major opportunity for whole foodservice industry” says CESA chair
According to CESA, the plan for a Tourism Industry Council, to be heade
d by a government minister, is a huge opportunity which should
be supported enthusiastically. “It has the potential to give the whole foodservice industry, both operators and suppliers, a much stronger role in government, with the prospect of having much more influence than currently,” says Nick Oryino, chair of CESA.
The plans were announced in London on June 5th at the BHA summit, which CESA sponsors. “With direct access to a minister responsible for the hospitality sector, the industry supply chain will benefit too. We will have more opportunity to lobby on some key issues, such as the skills shortage and enhanced capital allowance for energy saving equipment,” Oryino added. “This move is welcomed and the BHA is to be applauded for its work on this key issue,” he added.
“CESA, the BHA and other trade associations have long been frustrated by the length of time government takes to tackle foodservice industry issues. The move would put us at the centre of government, giving the industry the recognition it deserves. We have seen the benefits of Councils in other key industry sectors.”
Co-chaired by tourism minister Helen Grant MP, skills minister Matt Hancock MP, and by Hilton’s Simon Vincent, president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, the Council will meet every 3-4 months. Its focus will be on “improving skills, boosting enterprise, and increasing the quality and quantity of jobs available within the industry.”
The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA)is the authoritative voice of the catering equipment industry, representing over 170 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment – from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on CESA visit www.cesa.org.uk