BII Wessex Event Offers Licensees Competitive Edge

28-May-2008

Times may be tough for the licensed trade but owners and managers of pubs, clubs, bars and hotels can pick up some great tips to boost their competitive edge at an event being run by the Wessex Region of BII, the professional body for the licensed retail industry. ‘Quality Trading in a Challenging Marketplace’ takes place at The Eagle Tavern, Buckland St Mary on Tuesday 17th June.

For just £20, attendees will hear from a line up of hard-hitting speakers each proffering ideas to help licensees differentiate their offer. First up is Jo Bruce, editor of PubChef, which is linked to licensed trade magazine the Morning Advertiser, who will talk about how food has never been so important to pubs looking to succeed during the mini recession.

Rory Doudin of Hunt’s Foodservice in Sherborne will advise on adapting menu offerings within the resources available. Meanwhile, Rory Stapleton, better known to some as the Jolly Vintner of Tiverton, will share his thoughts on how to stand out with a well-balanced wine list.

Event sponsor Patrick McCaig of Otter Brewery will fly the flag for cask ale in the current environment. Many pubs are blaming cheap booze in supermarkets for their downturn in business and Patrick maintains that pubs should make more of their cask beer offering because it’s a product unique to pubs and cannot be found on a supermarket shelf.

BII client development director John Melia will round up the official proceedings with an update on training and details of a financial incentive for further professional development available in conjunction with Train to Gain.

BII has over 41,000 full and provisional members throughout the UK and each of its 16 regions organises regular events to ensure licensed retailers remain up-to-date with industry developments. Wessex Region chairman Alec Roud CMBII welcomes members and non-members to benefit from the tips and advice on offer and to make the most of the opportunity to network with other licensees and industry professionals.

The event on 17th June will open with registration at 10am and closes with a buffet lunch supported by Hunt’s Foodservice at 12.40pm. Tickets cost just £20 and are available from Phillip Howells CMBII on 01934 863059 or langfordinn@aol.com  or Cherry Blakeman CMBII on 01305 860751 or cherry-blakeman@fsmail.net




Email michellel@bii.org
Contact Michelle Luscombe Corporate Communications Manager 01276 417863