WHAT’S ON THE MENU AT NRB25 & LUNCH! NORTH 2025?
The North’s number one trade show opens next week - secure your badge today!
Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB), sponsored by Uber Eats, the leading hospitality trade show in the North, is returning to Manchester Central next week alongside the brand-new lunch! NORTH, an event dedicated to the region's thriving café, coffee shop, and food-to-go sector.
Taking place on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th March, these two must-attend events will bring together the best of Northern hospitality under one roof with a stellar line up of keynote speakers, exclusive interviews, and live demonstrations, as well as invaluable networking opportunities.
NRB25 Highlights:
- Keynote Theatre: Industry leaders including Kate Nicholls OBE (UKHospitality), Simon Potts (The Alchemist), and Roy Ellis (Mission Mars) discuss key hospitality challenges and opportunities.
- Chef Live: Featuring Tom Barnes (Skof), Ruth Hansom (Hansom Restaurant & Wine Bar), and Danielle Heron (OSMA) showcasing their culinary expertise.
- Pub & Bar Theatre: Panels on leadership, brewing innovations, and mixology featuring William Lees-Jones (JW Lees) and award-winning mixologist Joe Schofield (SCHOFIELD'S BAR).
- Kuits NRB Top Fifty: Recognising the most influential operators in Northern hospitality.
This year’s event will be expanded upon with the arrival of lunch! NORTH, a sister event to NRB25 which will be taking place in the very same venue. lunch! NORTH is brought to Manchester for the first time by the same organisers behind NRB, and will be dedicated to the north’s flourishing café, coffee shop and food-to-go sector.
lunch! has been running successfully in London for 16 years and its northern counterpart is sponsored by Uber Eats for its inaugural year with confirmed brands including Hip Pop, TRIP DRINKS LTD, Britvic, Tony’s Chocolonely, Tiffin Sandwiches and The Exploding Bakery.
Lunch! NORTH Highlights:
- First-ever Northern edition of the leading café, coffee shop & food-to-go trade show.
- Industry insights: Talks from Simon Stenning (FutureFoodservice), Marta Pogroszewska (GAIL’s), and Christian Binney (Burger King UK).
- Food-To-Go Leaders Panel: Discussions with Jon Lake (Chopstix), Dimeji Sadiq (Vegan Shack), and William Gordon-Harris (Knoops).
Siobhan Thompson, event manager for NRB25 said: "We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Manchester Central next week! NRB has always been the beating heart of Northern hospitality, bringing together the best talent, brands, and operators under one roof.
This year, we’re raising the bar once again with an incredible lineup of speakers, interactive sessions, and the introduction of lunch! NORTH. It’s a must-attend event for anyone in the industry who wants to be inspired, make connections, and stay ahead of the game.”
Katie Tyler, Event Director for lunch! NORTH, also commented: “We’re so excited to launch lunch! NORTH and welcome visitors to this brand-new event. The café, coffee shop, and food-to-go sector in the North is booming, and we’re bringing together the best brands, experts, and ideas to help businesses thrive. We can’t wait to open the doors next week and see the industry come together!”
The NRB event experienced an 11% increase in attendance last year, with over 300 exhibitors and more than 9500 attendees, solidifying its stature as a prominent fixture in the hospitality calendar. Meanwhile, lunch! NORTH is set to establish itself as a key event for the Northern grab-and-go sector, mirroring the success of its London counterpart, which attracted over 8000 visitors in 2024.
Will Beckett, CEO and co-founder of Hawksmoor, who attended NRB last year, said: “NRB is the date in the calendar for Northern hospitality; an event that brings the industry together like no other in the UK.”
Register Today:
An unmissable date in the diary for everyone in the northern hospitality industry, NRB25 and lunch! NORTH will bring together over 10,000 visitors and 400 exhibitors for two days of business, networking, and education at Manchester Central, 11th-12th March 2025. For more information and to book your free trade ticket visit www.northernrestaurantandbar.co.uk or www.lunchnorth.co.uk.
NRB ANNOUNCES FULL KEYNOTE & DEMO LINE-UP FOR 2025
An Exceptional Collection Of Industry Leaders Are Set To Take The Stage Including Tom Barnes of Skof, Kate Nicholls OBE of UKHospitality and Simon Potts of The Alchemist
Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB), sponsored by Uber Eats, the leading hospitality trade show in the North, has unveiled an exceptional keynote and demo lineup for its 2025 edition. Taking place on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th March, this year’s program promises thought-provoking discussions, exclusive interviews, and invaluable insights from some of the most influential leaders in the industry.
Day One: Tuesday 11th March
The event kicks off on Tuesday 11th March in the Keynote Theatre with an exclusive interview featuring Kate Nicholls OBE, Chief Executive of UKHospitality. Kate will discuss the pressing challenges facing the hospitality industry and the opportunities available for operators in 2025 and beyond. Later in the day, Simon Potts, CEO of The Alchemist, will take the stage to share insights into his career journey, the growth of The Alchemist brand, and the challenges faced by the hospitality sector.
The Marketing Leaders Panel will feature Lucy Milne (Dishoom), James Newman (Mission Mars), and Kate Lister (New World Trading Company). They will explore the strategies they use to keep customers engaged and returning in an increasingly competitive market. Meanwhile, The Hospitality Leaders Panel, featuring Neal Bates (Rudy’s), Amber Wood (New World Trading Company), and Enrico Pireddu (Big Mamma Group), will provide an engaging discussion on topics such as innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in hospitality.
Tuesday’s Chef Live sessions will showcase live cooking demonstrations from some of the North’s top chefs, including Tom Barnes (Skof), Jamie Pickles (Stow), Ruth Hansom (Hansom Restaurant and Wine Bar), and Scott John-Hodgson (Solstice). Skof has just been awarded a Michelin star less than a year after opening, and this will be Tom Barnes’ first trade show since achieving this prestigious accolade—making his session a must-see. These culinary experts will showcase their unique techniques and the inspirations behind their highly acclaimed dishes.
Meanwhile, in the Pub & Bar Theatre, discussions will range from leadership insights with William Lees-Jones (JW Lees) and Christian Townsley (North Bars) to brewing innovations with Matthew Tiplady and Michael Lees-Jones also of JW Lees. The Cocktail Bar Leaders Panel will feature Fran Cruse (Stray), Chris Edwards (Sister Ray), and Cressida Lawlor (Ego Death), exploring trends and innovations in the world of mixology.
Closing the first day of the trade show, the much-anticipated Kuits NRB Top Fifty will be unveiled. This prestigious list recognises the most influential operators in the Northern hospitality industry, celebrating those who have demonstrated exceptional commercial and critical success over the past year. Winners will be selected by a panel of top hospitality experts, with special achievement awards also being presented.
Day Two: Wednesday 12th March
On Wednesday 12th March, the Keynote Theatre will feature an exclusive interview with Roy Ellis, CEO & Co-Founder of Mission Mars, who will provide insights into the evolution of his multi-brand business. Laura Harper-Hinton, Founder of Caravan, will also take the stage to discuss how she has mastered the art of all-day dining and how Caravan continues to expand. Later, Brian Trollip, CEO of Dishoom, will share insights into the continuous evolution of the brand and its future vision.
The Operations Leaders Panel will bring together Maria McCann (Blacklock), Ben Rushworth (Hickory’s Smokehouse), and Lucy Worth (Mowgli) to discuss the vital role of operations in ensuring the smooth running of hospitality businesses.
The New Openings Panel featuring Éadaoin McDonagh (Lina Stores), Sam Grainger (COS Hospo/OG Hospo), and Jamie Duffield (Pilgrim) will dive into the excitement and challenges of launching new hospitality ventures, including discussions on location strategies and business growth.
Wednesday’s Chef Live sessions will continue to impress with top chefs such as Ruby Jary (Medlock Canteen), Ollie Bridgewater (SOURCE at The Gilpin Hotel), Rosie Maguire (Higher Ground), and Danielle Heron (OSMA) demonstrating their expertise.
In the Pub & Bar Theatre, the focus will shift to understanding Gen Z’s engagement with pubs and bars in a session led by Reuben Pullan and Danielle Rowlands from CGA by NIQ. Additionally, an exclusive one-on-one interview with award-winning mixologist Joe Schofield (SCHOFIELD'S BAR) will delve into his career, creative process, and inspirations. The final session, Drinks Trends: What’s Driving Drinks?, hosted by Campari Academy UK’s Loris Contro, will explore the latest trends shaping the drinks industry.
NRB promises to deliver a unique blend of networking, inspiration, and innovation for hospitality professionals. With over 400 exhibitors showcasing the latest in food, drink, and technology, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and discover the newest trends shaping the future of the sector.
NRB opens on March 11th-12th at Manchester Central and serves as the premier hospitality showcase of the year. Free tickets for trade professionals working in hospitality are available here.
NORTHERN HOSPITALITY OUTPERFORMS SOUTH IN SITE GROWTH AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
New research reveals Northern cities are driving hospitality excellence, with pubs and bars leading the way in growth and resilience amid industry stabilisation
The latest data from Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) and CGA by NielsenIQ reveals that the North of England has demonstrated stronger resilience and growth in Britain’s licensed hospitality sector compared to the South.
The study, which tracks a wide range of licensed venues including pubs, bars, restaurants and nightclubs, shows that while the industry as a whole has stabilised after previous declines, major Northern cities have outperformed their Southern counterparts in both site growth and feedback from customers.
The report shows a total of 99,120 outlets operating across Great Britain in December 2024, compared to 99,113 in December 2023. This represents a year of stability following industry declines in both 2022 (-4.5%) and 2023 (-2.9%).
While the market as a whole remains stable, significant regional differences have emerged, with the North demonstrating stronger performance than the South. The North recorded a modest site growth of 0.1% in 2024, while the South experienced a slight decrease of -0.2%.
Liverpool, Chester, and Sheffield emerged as the strongest performers in the North, each recording a 2.4% increase in site numbers - significantly outperforming both the national average (0.0%) and London (1.6%).
Leeds (1.5%) and Manchester (0.1%) also showed incremental growth, reinforcing the North’s steady expansion. In contrast, key Southern cities such as Birmingham (-0.7%) and Bristol (0.1%) experienced stagnation or decline. These figures suggest an edge in resilience for major Northern hospitality hubs.
Pubs and bars are among the strongest performers in the North, with visits increasing by 4% in 2024, while the South experienced a decline of -1%. The data also signals a shift in consumer habits, with nightclub visits down by 5% in the North and 2% in the South, reinforcing the move toward more community-focused venues and casual socialising.
The North’s growing reputation for hospitality excellence is attracting major investment, with an expanding mix of high-profile openings from both homegrown and national brands. Notable additions include Skof in Manchester by Tom Barnes, formerly Head Chef at Simon Rogan’s three-Michelin-starred L’Enclume, and Chartwell at Aldwark Manor Estate in North Yorkshire, which has already earned three AA Rosettes. Additionally, Fifty Two at Rudding Park Hotel in Harrogate has recently secured a place in the Michelin Guide.
Operators such as Roxy Leisure Group, Concept Taverns, and Mission Mars (the group behind Albert’s Schloss and Rudy’s Napoletana) are reinforcing the North’s position as a dynamic hospitality hub, with concepts that resonate strongly with both locals and visitors. While historically, brands have expanded from London outward, an increasing number of Northern-born hospitality brands are now moving successfully into the capital.
Beyond site growth, the North is also outperforming the South in customer experience and feedback. Satisfaction levels across the region consistently outperform those in the South, with significant improvements in key areas. Consumers in the North report superior food quality (+1.0%) and drink quality (+4.0%), alongside more impressive service (+3.0%) and shorter wait times (+2.0%). Furthermore, the North provides better value for money (+2.0%) and a stronger overall sense of satisfaction with the visit (+2.0%), highlighting its commitment to delivering an outstanding experience.
These positive metrics underscore the commitment of Northern operators to delivering memorable, high-quality experiences, creating loyalty among customers and a vibrant, dynamic hospitality culture.
Hospitality spending in the North has seen a notable 6.2% increase compared to 2023, with the average monthly spend now surpassing £100 for the first time. While Southerners still lead in spending, with an average of £108 per month and a more modest increase of 4.8%, the gap is steadily closing year-on-year.
Notably, the region has proven less impacted by price increases, with Northerners reporting 10% fewer concerns about rising costs when eating or drinking out compared to the South. Additionally, consumers in the North cite having ‘sufficient disposable income’ as a reason for going out (11%).
Siobhan Thompson, event manager for NRB, commented: “The hospitality sector across Britain is stabilising, and we’re seeing some key regional differences in how operators are adapting to market conditions. The North continues to demonstrate strong resilience, innovation, and investment, which has helped drive growth in key cities. With a steady stream of new openings, evolving consumer trends, and continued enthusiasm from operators, Northern hospitality remains a vital and thriving part of the UK’s food and drink landscape.”
Northern Restaurant and Bar provides a vital platform to celebrate and support the sector’s ongoing success. With over 10,000 visitors and more than 400 exhibitors expected on 11th-12th March, the event offers an invaluable space for operators, suppliers, and industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and drive innovation.
CHEERS TO BRITISH BOOZE! HOW STOCKING SMALL-BATCH BRITISH SPIRITS CAN ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS
The UK’s craft spirits industry is thriving like never before. Independent distilleries are popping up nationwide, shaking up the drinks market with innovative small-batch creations. In 2023 alone, over 50 new UK-based distilleries opened their doors, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
For bars and restaurants, featuring these premium artisanal spirits isn’t just about expanding your menu - it’s about setting your business apart in a fiercely competitive market. Brands like DropWorks, Highball Brands, and Spirit Cartel are leading the charge with unique, high-quality drinks that bring something special to the table (or bar).
We’re exploring why the UK’s small-batch spirits are booming, how they can enhance your drinks offering, and which standout brands you can find at this year’s NRB Show.
- Local Ingredients, Big Stories
Small-batch distilleries are championing locally sourced ingredients, crafting spirits that reflect the essence of their regions. Take Ramsbury Distillery in Wiltshire, for example. From the winter-grown wheat in their gin, to the subtle sweetness of wildflower honey in their flavourings, their spirits capture the unique provenance of the British countryside in every sip.
For hospitality operators, stocking spirits with a compelling local origin story can appeal to consumers who value that sense of authenticity. Highlighting these local connections on your menu not only boosts your offering but also taps into the widely growing “support local” movement.
2. Flavour Innovation and Experimental Distilling
Small-batch distilleries have the freedom to experiment, and they’re taking bold leaps in flavour and technique. From Brockman’s Gin, infused with exotic botanicals, to DropWorks’ newly released Barrel Drop rum, aged in an unique combination of matured barrels, these spirits go beyond the ordinary.
Unique products like these allow operators to stand out and attract those adventurous consumers who are looking for something they haven’t tried before - creating memorable experiences that encourage repeat visits and drive word-of-mouth recommendations.
3. Innovation Among Small Distilleries Fueled by the Big Players
The craft movement continues to inspire innovation, and even large-scale operators overseas are taking note, raising the bar across the whole industry. The increased focus on quality and creativity has, in turn, fueled smaller distilleries to push their boundaries even further.
Take Tarsier Spirits’ Backpacker Series, for example. Drawing inspiration from Southeast Asia, their spirits feature bold ingredients like Yuzu, Kampot pepper, and Thai basil. These unique products not only stand out for their distinctive flavours but also tell stories that captivate consumers seeking adventure and originality. As larger brands elevate expectations, smaller distilleries are rising to the challenge, proving their ability to innovate and thrive in a competitive market.
4. Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have. Many small-batch distilleries have committed to showing this initiative, for example, Mermaid and Polar Spirits are championing their eco-friendly initiatives, from using renewable energy in production to sourcing ingredients sustainably and offering recyclable or reusable packaging.
With 95% of consumers in 2025 actively making sustainable choices*, stocking eco-conscious spirits is a smart move for bars and restaurants. Not only does it align with consumer values but also enhances your brand’s reputation. Look for distilleries that highlight their green credentials and make sustainability part of your offering.
Discover the Best in Small-Batch Spirits
Ready to shake up your menu? Visiting NRB this March is a must to connect with top small-batch distilleries and elevate your beverage offerings. Showcasing an impressive lineup, over 33 spirits brands will be exhibiting at NRB, featuring global leaders like Campari Group, William Grant & Sons, and Disaronno International UK, alongside small-batch distilleries such as DropWorks’, Isle of White Distillery and Tarsier Spirits’.
Register to visit here.
Book a stand at NRB 2025 here.
*https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/education/2025/grocery-trends/
NRB SPEAKERS REVEALED INCLUDING MISSION MARS CEO, CARAVAN RESTAURANTS CEO AND ACCLAIMED CHEF, TOM BARNES
Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) has revealed the dynamic speaker line-ups for its upcoming March show, showcasing some of the biggest names in hospitality
Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB), sponsored by Uber Eats, has revealed an impressive line-up of speakers for its upcoming trade show this March, including leaders from hospitality heavyweights such as Skof, Mission Mars and Campari Academy UK.
Returning to Manchester Central, NRB continues its legacy of uniting hospitality operators and suppliers for two days of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration, offering a blend of expert talks, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities.
NRB Chef Live
Joining this year’s NRB Chef Live line-up is Tom Barnes, the celebrated Cumbrian chef who recently opened Manchester’s much-anticipated restaurant, Skof. With former experience as Head Chef at Simon Rogan’s three-Michelin-Starred L’Enclume, Barnes will showcase his signature techniques and share expert tips on the event’s opening day.
Joining him are Ollie Bridgewater, Executive Chef at Michelin-starred The Gilpin in Windermere, and Ruth Hansom, owner of Hansom Restaurant & Wine Bar in North Yorkshire and the first female winner of the prestigious Roux Scholarship back in 2016. Together, the trio will provide inspiration and insights, showcasing their distinctive styles of cooking that celebrate local produce and highlight the North’s position as a global leader in fine-dining.
NRB Keynote Theatre
The NRB Keynote Theatre will feature prominent industry leaders sharing insights and success stories from building some of the country’s most recognisable brands, including Roy Ellis, CEO and Co-Founder of Mission Mars. Ellis will discuss how community-driven concepts, such as the group’s brands Albert’s Schloss and Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana, can achieve impressive scalability and long-term success.
Laura Harper-Hinton, CEO and Co-Founder of Caravan Restaurants, will also feature and offer her expertise on sustainable practices and the value of all-day dining; that has taken the brand from nine successful London locations to its Northern debut in Manchester in August 2024.
Meanwhile, Simon Potts, CEO of The Alchemist, will take attendees behind the curtain of a brand synonymous with theatrical cocktails, striking design, and immersive experiences that has now expanded to 22 locations across the UK and sets the standard for bold, experiential hospitality.
NRB Pub and Bar Theatre
The Pub and Bar Theatre will play host to expert-led talks and tutored tastings from the top names in the wine, beer and spirits industry, including a one-on-one interview with acclaimed Manchester bartender and bar owner Joe Schofield of Schofield's Bar.
Since opening in 2021, Schofield’s Bar has earned international acclaim, including a coveted spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Schofield will share his thoughts on elevating the northern cocktail scene and building a world-class bar rooted in Manchester’s heritage.
The program will also feature sessions from industry leaders, including London Essence, renowned for its premium mixers crafted with distilled botanicals, and Campari Academy UK, making NRB25 as its exclusive trade show appearance in 2025, with a focus on the Spritz category.
Siobhan Thompson, Event Manager for NRB25, said: “This year’s line-up of speakers across both shows reflects the energy, creativity, and resilience of our industry. With hospitality leaders from businesses like Mission Mars, GAIL’s and Caravan Restaurants, these events promise to provide invaluable insights, inspiration, and a platform to celebrate the talent driving the Northern hospitality scene forward.”
This year’s event expands with the launch of lunch! NORTH, a sister event to NRB25, held side-by-side at Manchester Central. Brought north by the team behind NRB and after 16 successful years in London with lunch!, lunch! NORTH will focus on the region’s thriving café, coffee shop, and food-to-go sectors, featuring an inspiring line-up of industry leaders.
The NRB and lunch! NORTH events promise to deliver a unique blend of networking, inspiration, and innovation for hospitality professionals. With over 350 exhibitors showcasing the latest in food, drink, and technology, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and discover the newest trends shaping the future of the sector.
The NRB and lunch! NORTH trade shows are scheduled for March 11th-12th at Manchester Central. These events serve as the premier hospitality showcase of the year. Free tickets for trade professionals working in hospitality are available here.