Workforce issues to go under the microscope at HNZ conference
‘Future of Hospitality’ event set to recalibrate industry
Workforce issues are set to dominate the two-day Hospitality New Zealand (HNZ) ‘Future of Hospitality’ conference taking place in July, back after a two-year hiatus.
“The future of the workforce is one the biggest issues for us as an industry, and it’s incredibly important we put a microscope on that,” HNZ Chief Executive, Julie White said.
“Post-COVID, rebuilding the future our key priorities are people, creating partnerships, and retraining people so the industry can take advantage of what’s coming to move forward with confidence.”
Beyond workforce issues, the conference program this year has been designed to include presentations and workshops looking at multiple categories across the industry. ranging from technology and sustainability, to ventilation systems, beer production and events.
“This is not a reset, rather it will be a recalibration,” Ms White said.
“Looking to the future is incredibly important for us, and the conference will reflect that.”
The latest speakers to be confirmed are Sydney’s 24-hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues, and UK ‘Masterchef’ judge, Monica Galetti, who join New York restaurateur, Danny Meyer; Las Vegas business magnate, Shane Green and mental health ambassador, Mike King.
“These people have reached the top of their profession in some of the toughest markets in the world, and they will undoubtedly bring some insights our industry can learn from.”
The Tasmanian Hospitality Association has also been invited to present its 2030 industry recovery plan.
While the full program is still to be announced, Ms White said subject matter will centre around ‘The Future of Hospitality’ theme with workshops also focusing on the Container Return Scheme, and legislation on a variety of issues but including the Fair Pay agreement, and the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.
“The industry needs to be the creator of its own future and be part of these decisions, that’s why we have included them in the conference,” she said.
The conference, supported by Auckland Unlimited, will take place on July 26-27 at the Grand Millennium Hotel in Auckland.
Mike Parker-Brown is a UK-trained and qualified journalist and an award-winning travel communicator with more than 30 years experience.
Since 2002, Mike has worked as a freelance writer and PR consultant providing his services to major organisations in Australia and internationally in the tourism, aviation, hospitality, recruitment and export marketing sectors.
