Introducing more business-oriented content and attracting a broader base of exhibitors are top of the list for the new event director of William Reed’s Restaurant Show.
 
Rachel Quigley, who joined William Reed from the restaurant trade, said the organiser will introduce a three-day business boot camp to this year’s event to provide visitors with more information on commercial and restaurant issues. The events team is working with Live Bookings and its sister publications to devise the seminar programme.
 
“The boot camp rounds out our offering of chef demonstrations and products,” Quigley told EN. “We have lots of entertainment and demonstrations on stage but as a trade show, it’s important we also provide business and commerce-related content.”
 
The show’s dedicated Drinks Quarter, which was launched at last year’s show, will also be consolidated. William Reed claimed last year’s Restaurant Show attracted a range of new exhibitors as a result of new features such as the Drinks Quarter. Other features planned include “Lunch at the Restaurant Show”, the Rising Star Awards, the National Chef finals and Compass Chef of the Year competitions.
 
“My focus is about building integrity with the industry and delivering what restaurateurs and chefs are looking for,” Quigley said. “I’m also keen to grow the show.”
 
Quigley replaces former show director Matthew Butler, who left William Reed to join CloserStill Media earlier this year.
 
The 2011 Restaurant Show will be held from 10 to 12 October at Earls Court 2.
 
Got a news story? Email the editor: ncameron@mashmedia.net