Launching in just three weeks’ time, final preparations are well underway for Casual Dining – the new trade event for the UK’s £6.7bn casual dining sector. With exhibition space on the verge of selling out and thousands of buyers already pre-registered, the show is all set for a successful first edition at the Business Design Centre in London on 26-27 February.
Catering specifically to the business needs of casual dining operators, the event will feature 120 founding exhibitors showcasing an innovative choice of food and drink, equipment, interior design, furniture, technology and table top. The following is just a selection of some of the latest product innovations that will be on show later this month.
Food
Quality Cuisine will be introducing its new product range – The Longini. So light that they melt in the mouth, the long puff pastry bases are topped with a choice of five mouthwatering flavour combinations. Simple to prepare from frozen, they come individually-packed in their own oven ready foil containers. Also on show – a unique savoury pudding range with a twist. Stand U123
Bar Foods have been supplying soup, sauce and bespoke recipe dish lines into the UK’s foodservice sector for over 25 years. They’ll be showcasing their new capabilities for 2014, including pulled meats and drizzle bottles. New roasting facilities (ingredients and finished products) are also now available. Stand U227
Quickes Elderflower is an exclusive new launch for Cheese Cellar. The buttery richness of the Quickes Buttery Cheddar combines with the subtle aromatic note of the elderflower – creating a full, rich and unique taste. Other new range additions include Suffolk Salami; Suffolk Salami’s Rosemary Salami; and Suffolk Salami Chorizo. Stand U422
The Prawn Kiev from Pacific West Foods (UK) is a new addition to its innovative range of value-added frozen seafood products. The butterflied prawns are spread with a garlic, herb and buttered-flavoured paste, and hand coated in Panko breadcrumbs. Case size is 10 x 500g, with 20 pieces per box. Stand U101
La Tua Pasta is a producer of artisan fresh pasta of the finest quality. All pasta is freshly made daily in London. New additions to their range of over 200 varieties, include Tortelloni filled with Pecorino & Honey; Prawns; and Gnocchi filled with Tomato & Mozzarella, which can also be deep fried as an appetizer. Stand U506
McCain Foodservice’s new Signatures Skin-On Fries and Gastro Thick Cut Chips are the perfect way to add variety and choice to any menu, providing an ideal kitchen solution to get that important Casual Dining look and feel. Made from quality ingredients, they offer dual store capabilities to alleviate storage pressures, are quick to cook, and stay hot for that ultimate fresh appeal. Stand G1
New to the market, Lutosa UK will be introducing its rustic slices, which are perfect for sharing platters or as a new alternative to fries. Made from delicious Bintje potato, they are cut extra thick, with skin-on to bring out the full flavour. Preparation is quick and easy, either through frying or in the oven. Stand U104
Keck Pasta is showcasing its bespoke, precise portion pouches of IQF pasta, noodles and rice. The size and weight of the pouches can vary to individual requirements; and pouches can also be personalised with logos. Chefs can regenerate the portion pouches without precooking. Stand U228
Business development agency Invest Northern Ireland will be showcasing hundreds of tasty food and drink products from Northern Ireland companies; including traditional Irish breads and cakes, convenience meals and snacks, Irish pork sausages, meats and pies, desserts, fresh and pre-packed vegetables, yoghurts and unique berry liqueurs for mixologists. Stand U510
Lamb Weston has three new ranges to sample at Casual Dining. Sweet & Savour sweet potato fries, which add a unique and exciting twist to any menu; Potato Dippers for the perfect sharing and dipping experience; and Mini Cheese Balls, which come in three mouth-watering flavours: Cheddar, Cheddar & Onion and Gouda & Jalapeño. Stand U408
New additions to DiSotto Foods’ range include non-alcoholic tiramisu, prepared with the original ingredients dictated by Veneto tradition; Vero Gelato – an innovative sorbet and gelati made using 100% natural ingredients; and Fruitfull natural fruit lollies (exclusive to DiSotto Foods), available in 11 fruit flavours made from 100% natural ingredients. Stand U222
Ice-cream and frozen dessert manufacturer Silver Pail Dairy will showcase its range of award-winning products, including Glenown Farm French Vanilla Ice-cream and Raspberry Sorbet (winners of Great Taste Gold Star awards in 2013). A new opulent ice-cream dessert range will also be on show. Stand U127
Renowned for innovation in the field of ice cream, Purbeck Ice Cream will be exhibiting its award-winning Dorset Blue Vinney Ice Cream and Dorset Watercress Ice Cream; great served with starters, a main course, or as a traditional dessert. Available in retail and catering sizes, flavours range from the traditional to the innovative – with a few new surprises to be unveiled at the show. Stand U139
Fresh Direct will be showcasing a snapshot of its wide product range at Casual Dining, with tasters of soft tacos with pulled beef and salsa; as well as artisan ice cream. The team will also be on hand to chat through how they can support visiting operators with food supply. Stand G17
From sweet and earthy to spicy and creamy, The Redemption Food Company has developed three new varieties to its Love Soup winter line-up. The new flavours, which sit alongside six other recommended winter varieties, include Parsnip, Carrot & Cumin, Mexican Corn, Chilli & Lime and Cauliflower and Parmesan. Bespoke kitchen solutions are available. Stand U338
Mom’s Fabulous Hot Dogs are the new dogs on the block, made using the finest cuts of fresh, coarse-ground meat for a firmer texture and superior flavour. The range includes tantalising Chilli Cheese; all pork – with a spicy kick and savoury cheese; and mouth-watering Mom’s Original, made to an original recipe. Stand U342
Plusfood UK are presenting their Hot ‘n’ Kickin’ chicken range. Incorporating 100% breast meat fillets, goujons and poppin’ chicken, plus chicken wings, coated in Plusfood’s signature crispy coating they are versatile, quick and easy to prepare with a sizzling chilli ‘kick’ and fiery flavour. Free samples and P.O.S. will be available. Stand U223
Pidy will be presenting their latest two launches at Casual Dining. Firstly, their Spicy cup canapé range, with flavours including African Falafel, Asian Curry, Mexican Chilli and Southern Pepper. Secondly, a pre-baked frozen sweet sable range that allows ease of use for caterers resulting in a just baked fresh taste. Stand U537
The Aviko Diner will be open for business at Casual Dining this month, highlighting how operators can make the most of the posh nosh trend and differentiate their sides. Aviko’s premium fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Super Crunch and Superlongs will all be available to sample. Stand U129
Independent chilled ambient and frozen food distributor SFD will be sampling its innovative range of Rich Sauces and mayonnaise solutions for all occasions. Visitors will also be able to enjoy Amore Di Gelato ice cream and sorbet, made with only the finest ingredients, which delivers a unique taste and texture in the super premium category. Stand U428
Essential Cuisine – the British producer of stocks, jus and gravies will be demonstrating its bespoke product development capabilities that can help casual dining outlets take menus to another level. The full range will be on show, including a 12-strong line up of high quality stock mixes offering the taste, texture and performance of kitchen-made in minutes rather than hours. Stand U334
Whitakers Chocolates Limited are the UK’s largest supplier of personalised neapolitans, wafers and mints to the catering industry. Thanks to the extensive choice of flavours, coloured foils and printed bands to choose from, their neapolitans prove to be a cost-effective and visually attractive way to communicate a corporate message to customers. Stand U137
Drink
Taylors of Harrogate is bringing a taste of Yorkshire to Casual Dining, showcasing its award winning blend Yorkshire Tea. Operators can visit the tea urn to pick up free samples, enjoy the taste of a proper brew, and find out why Yorkshire Tea has become one of the nation’s most loved brands. Stand U110
Warner Edwards Distillery is a new award-wining artisan gin distilled by friends Tom Warner and Sion Edwards at their 200-year-old converted barn in the village of Harrington, Northamptonshire. They blend pure, natural spring water, grain spirit, homegrown elderflower, plus ten other botanicals, to create a fantastically smooth and aromatic dry gin. Stand GS1 in the Artisan Spirits & Cocktail Lounge
Recent additions to Department 33 – Wines of Bordeaux’s range of independent family owned vineyards include the rich, but elegant Cuvée 1628 Lalande de Pomerol (which offers the same instantly rewarding style as its extremely famous neighbouring appellation at rather more affordable value) and the Retrospective Bordeaux Gold Medal winning Chateau Relais de la Poste’s 2010 Cuvée Malbec. Stand U226
New for 2014, MangaJo Drinks’ Sparkling Pressé & Green Teas deliver a double dose of goodness for those looking for a healthy alternative. They start with antioxidant-packed green tea then add delicious Sicilian Lemon or Mediterranean Pomegranates. The result is a deliciously refreshing beverage, with no added sugar, sweeteners, colours or preservatives. Stand G12
UCC Coffee will be showcasing a range of products, kit and equipment to provide the total solution for operators looking to create the best coffee offer. This includes premium, bespoke coffees, such as the new THREESIXTY° range, latte art masterclasses, tastings led by specialist baristas, and details of its License to Work in Coffee qualification. Stand U126.
It’s all going on at teapigs - they’ve launched two new blends (darjeeling and earl grey strong), loose leaf big packs, and are expanded its range of catering cases targeting the food-service industry. They have also kick-started teapigs tea schools, so all their customers know how to make the most of teapigs’ award-winning range of teas. Stand U523
Haywood Drinks unveils their distinctly different range of premium ready to serve cocktails available in 12 classic flavours. Served in just seconds, these full strength cocktails remove the need for mixology training and guarantee perfect serves; great for busy environments, reducing customer queue times and increasing sales. Stand GS3 in the Artisan Spirits & Cocktail Lounge
One Drinks joins Casual Dining with its latest range of ethical drinks, which fund global water projects. Highlights include One’s new, premium glass, art-deco style Butterfly Bottle (still and sparkling water) – a collaboration with Hawksmoor Restaurants. 100% of One’s profit funds water projects in the world’s harshest regions. To date they have raised over £8m. Stand U242
Luscombe Organic Drinks will be presenting their full range of fourteen organic soft drinks and juices and showcasing a new label for their Organic Devon Cider. The striking label adds a premium on-table presence to a Cider that already stands apart for not containing stabilising chemicals or sulphites. Stand U412
William Sharvatt’s London Velvet is a crafted blend of Porter Ale and Fine Cider. At 5% abv, in a premium 500ml bottle and 20 litre keg, London Velvet offers the consumer a new taste experience, and the retailer the opportunity to extend the categories and consumer base of both Ales and Ciders. Stand GB4 in the Craft Beer & Cider Showcase.
Vegesentials Fruity Veg Smoothies & Juices will be showcasing its beautifully balanced range of delicious ‘half fruit half veg’ smoothies and juices. Made with 100% fresh fruit and fresh veg, the range cater for all palates – from fruity ‘Carrot, Mango & Parsnip’ smoothie to the earthy ‘Beetroot, Pomegranate & Carrot’ juice. Stand G9
Equipment, Appliances & Tabletop
The Menu Shop will be launching several new products, including menus made from Perspex, metal, wood, and also polymer-coated menus that actually kill 99.9% of germs. Plus, there’s exciting developments in their eye catching menu cases with battery-operated additions. All orders placed at the show will enjoy a 15% discount. Stand U115
Catersave Europe will be presenting its comprehensive range of Cutlery and Glassware Polishers, plus a new sensor-operated Glass Froster. Weighing only 5kgs, the glass froster can create an ice cold frosted glass (using dry ice, which doesn’t change the flavour of the drinks) in a matter of a few seconds. One 10kg standard carbon dioxide bottle can frost up to 200-250 glasses. Stand U527
The GT Touch frozen drink/dessert machine is an exciting new addition to the Magrini range. It can produce soft ice cream, sorbet, granita and frozen yoghurt all from one machine. The touch screen design and versatility of this machine combine to make it the new must-have for casual dining outlets. Stand U322
Imperial Catering Equipment is exhibiting the revolutionary, new Ovention Matchbox oven for the first time in the UK. Using a new technology called Precision Impingement, which allows the cooking time, independent blower speeds, and temperature to flex for each item, operators can cook a broad menu of high quality items quickly, without the use of microwaves. No hood required. Stand U534
Experts from Glen Dimplex Professional Appliances will be demonstrating its new range of British manufactured Burco hot water boilers, which can be personalised entirely to suit operators’ brand requirements; offering an opportunity to create additional revenue for chains, groups and franchises. Stand U530
Electrolux Professional will be showcasing the High Speed Grill (HSG), which combines breakthrough Microwaves, with infrared technology, enabling caterers to achieve greater business potential. Designed for caterers who are chasing the clock, the HSG reduces cooking duration by up to six times compared to a standard panini grill. Stand U105
True Food International’s new Specification Series is a highly-configurable, commercial refrigeration line; available as single or double section refrigerator and freezers. The range includes options for reach-in, pass-thru, roll-in and roll-thru variations, and they are available with full or half doors in solid, glass or a combination of both. Stand U212
Clever technology means the latest warewasher from market leader Winterhalter is faster and saves energy compared to conventional models. Since a quick turnaround is of the essence in the casual dining sector, the new PT Series is able to increase rack capacity per hour by 28% and reduce heat-up time by 50%. Stand U531
Unox UK will be promoting its latest range of Professional Combi and Bake Off Ovens. The Unox Chefs will be live cooking throughout the exhibition, demonstrating the various benefits of the Unox product, which will include The Cafe Solutions Range. Stand G16
Adende Refrigeration will be demonstrating why a multi award winning Adande® is like no other fridge or freezer. Jamie’s Italian, Yo Sushi, and Le Bistrot Pierre, to name but a few, all look to Adande®’ssuperior products, such as the Adande® Matchbox, Saladette, and modular Drawer combinations (with optional Blast Chilling functionality), to suit a unique cookline set-up; especially in an open or theatre style kitchen environment. Stand U241
Rational UK’s expert chefs will be putting the new SelfCookingCenter whitefficiency through its paces at Casual Dining. The SelfCookingCenter® whitefficiency® replaces 40-50% of traditional cooking appliances, reducing the kitchen size by at least 30% and reducing energy consumption by as much as 70%. Stand U313
Business Services & Technology
mySmartPhoneMoney is the ultimate low cost cashless payment solution for the catering market. Integrated with industry standard EPOS systems, it allows customers to pay using their SmartPhone, or Corporate Identity Card. Using the unique in App payment interface, it is also able to provide a comprehensive solution for Mobile App pre-ordering, pre-payment and fulfilment. Stand G5
Lynx Purchasing will be offering operators new insight into the latest market trends in the casual dining sector, along with advice and support on managing costs. Lynx will also demonstrate its free GP Calculator App (newly endorsed by the Craft Guild of Chefs), which has already been downloaded more than 7,500 times by chefs and catering professionals. Stand U526
Inapub is the leading technology platform for the licensed trade. Offering pubs a complete solution to market their business and increase the loyalty of their customers, it helps operators to reach consumers via its high traffic website and mobile apps. This year, operators can now use the new SPORT plugin to inform customers which sports they are showing. Stand U532
Mesero is the cloud based customer ordering app, designed by The Mesero Company, for (and with) hospitality operators. Bringing world class technology to foodservice operations of all sizes, Mesero increases sales and happy customers by enabling clients to use any smartphone to place orders instead of queuing and waiting. Stand U233
Cardlytics is a technology and analytics company, which is widely regarded as the pioneer and global leader of card-linked marketing. Partnering with retailers, restaurants and financial institutions, Cardlytics’ patented technology allows advertisers to make a direct connection to buyers through the online banking and mobile banking channels. Stand G19
Catering Design Group, the UK’s leading restaurant and commercial catering design company, will be supplying operators with expert advice and insight into how a successful casual dining restaurant and kitchen should look, feel and operate. They will also be sharing the latest design and eating out trends for 2014. Stand U328
Associations
The ALMR (Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers) is the voice of the UK’s licensed hospitality sector, championing the interests of casual dining restaurants, pubs, bars and nightclubs. They lobby Government to promote and encourage jobs, reduce the costs of doing business, and prevent restrictive legislation being imposed. Catch Kate Nicholls, the ALMR’s strategic affairs director on day two of the show, giving a Keynote address on ‘Is casual dining the saviour of the high street?’. Stand G8
The Sustainable Restaurant Association helps hospitality businesses to operate sustainably and effectively and provides recognition for those that do. They will be announcing details of their new Café Sustainability Rating & Membership package at Casual Dining, and promoting special offers on their consultancy service; including specialist waste audits. Stand U235
The Beverage Standards Association (BSA) is dedicated to fostering the growth of the UK out-of-home beverage market. They’ll be discussing their latest in training opportunities at Casual Dining, and promoting this year’s BSA Accreditation and Best Drinks Awards – the Michelin stars of the hot drinks industry (open to members and non-members). Stand G6
To view the current Casual Dining exhibitor list (to date), please visit https://onlineexhibitormanual.com/divcasualdining14/exhi/exhibitorList.aspx.
Casual Dining will launch at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, on 26-27 February 2014. For further information and to register for a free trade ticket, please visit www.casualdiningshow.co.uk and quote priority code PR4 (http://www.eventdata.co.uk/Visitor/CasualDining.aspx?AffiliateCode=PR4).