Allegra’s UK Coffee Leader Summit 2012 is set to take place on 29 March, welcoming 300 senior executives from across the UK coffee shop, food-to-go and food-for-now sectors. The event comes at a time when further market growth is expected for this sector, according to Allegra Strategies' recently released ProjectCafe11 UK Report. The report shows that rising consumer value expectations is a long-term factor shaping purchasing behaviour and branded chains will need to ensure they offer high quality products, especially authentic food and compelling environments. “The UK coffee shop market continues to exceed expectations by growing significantly in value and outlet numbers. More than 600 new coffee outlets opened in the UK during 2011,” says Jeffrey Young, Managing Director of Allegra Strategies. “As consumers gain more opportunity to consume quality coffee through more outlets, they are increasingly making it part of their lifestyle. Coffee shops provide more than just a cup of coffee. They are a place to eat, drink, socialise and relax. In these challenging economic times, consumers seek affordable treats to maintain a feel good factor in their lives.” Entitled ‘Coffee & Beyond’, the Summit will address these key themes and trends shaping the marketplace. Topics include a look at the 'Fourth Wave' – the science of coffee; the impact of micro-roasting on the industry and future for coffee brands; food concept innovation and development; barista culture; achieving staff passion; engaging consumers; the rise of non-specialists and key ethical issues such as direct sourcing. An exciting speaker line-up is planned, with presentations from innovative coffee and food concept operators including Tony Papas, managing director, Allpress Espresso; Tim Styles, director of operations, St ALi UK; Paul Ettinger, head of food and beverage, Caffè Nero; Debbie Melhuish, head of food development, Costa Coffee; Greg Costello, owner, Workhouse Coffee; Jane Govey, commercial director, Hummingbird Bakery, Carlo Del Mistro, founder and managing director, Gelato Mio and industry experts including Paul Meikle-Janney, managing director, The Coffee Community, Dr Jonthan Morris, research professor The University of Hertfordshire and Jeffrey Young, managing director, Allegra Strategies. The complete Summit program can be viewed at www.ukcoffeeleadersummit.com. Now in its fourth year, the much anticipated event will take place at London’s famous Millbank Tower. In addition to the ground-breaking conference, Allegra’s tailored Supply & Innovation Day will take place on 28 March, offering an exclusive forum for leading operators and key suppliers to meet face-to-face to explore and present new product innovation and supply chain opportunities. Delegates also have the opportunity to join one of the Study Tours to experience London’s leading and most innovative new coffee and food concepts. 2012 sees the return of United Coffee, Solo Cup Europe and Dawn Foods as proud sponsors of the event.
For further information please visit http://www.ukcoffeeleadersummit.com or contact Rosalyn Newbery at rnewbery@allegra.co.uk.
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