Between 29 September and 1 October 2024, senior representatives from across the UK hospitality industry will head to Manchester for the Annual Hospitality Conference (AHC).
This year’s speakers include renowned investor Luke Johnson, political commentator Robert Shrimsley as well as senior representatives from Whitbread, Starwood Capital and Pandox.
Not only will you hear from leading hotel investment executives, but the multiple networking opportunities mean you’ll be able to capitalise on the return to dealmaking we are seeing this year.
You can book your ticket here.
Hospitality entrepreneur and investor Luke Johnson has spent over 40 years backing consumer brands across food and drink, travel and entertainment and has had a ringside seat as the UK's leisure market has undergone a revolution. In a candid interview, Johnson will discuss his involvement in businesses ranging from Pizza Express to Gail’s to Elegant Hotels to Channel 4.
Johnson's closing keynote interview 'Path to 360-Degree Leadership: Being Bold in Challenging Markets' will take place on Tuesday, October 1 at 14:05.
Hospitality Investor: What’s your current view of the UK as an investment market?
Luke Johnson: Pretty mixed. Historically it was attractive because of the rule of law property rights, moderate taxes, strong local debt and equity markets but the new government have threatened more regulation and higher taxes, which is concerning. Also the hard net zero approach is a worry.
Hospitality Investor: What are some of the key things you consider when deciding whether to make an investment?
Luke Johnson: A mixture of things: growth potential; quality of management; competition and market; how cash generative is the business or asset; the track record; asset backing; price multiple; potential for leverage; barriers to entry; and a clear understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
Hospitality Investor: Which of your investments are you most proud of?
Luke Johnson: The ones that spring to mind are Gail’s Bakeries; Pizza Express; Integrated Dental Holdings; Topps Tiles and Neilson Holidays.
Hospitality Investor: From a hospitality perspective, what do investors often get wrong about the industry?
Luke Johnson: The importance of good service and cyclicality.
Hospitality Investor: What are some of the trends you think will have the most impact on the travel and tourism industry over the next 5 years?
Luke Johnson: The recovery of the Asian inbound tourism market; the continued power of grey tourists; maximising the off season; and the growth of adventure, active, experiential travel.
Hospitality Investor: Finally, the theme of this year’s event is “Proven Paths, New Horizons”. What new opportunities do you see in the hospitality sector?
Luke Johnson: The industry is forever reinventing itself and there are limitless potential new ideas in food, drink and leisure, Distinctive, well executed offerings will always prosper.