The ongoing 25th edition of Food Hospitality World (FHW) exhibition, being held from June 11-13, 2015 at The White Orchid Convention Centre, Bengaluru, witnessed 15 iconic restaurants being honoured for their contribution in creating unique distinction and experiences in the Southern India dining space. The Hospitality Trailblazers 2015 were: Jamavar, The Leela Bangalore; Italia, The Park Bangalore; Karavalli, The Gateway Hotel Bangalore, Dakshin, ITC Hotels; OKO, The LaLit Bangalore; Alba, JW Marriott Bangalore; Riwaz, Ritz Carlton; Mezzaluna, Movenpick; Pasha Bar & Grill, Alila Bangalore; Le Jardin, The Oberoi; Little Italy, Bangalore; Caperberry; Barbeque Nation; Maiyas Restaurant; Ohri’s (Hyderabad).
The highlight of the second day exhibition was the Hospitality Think Tank – GM’s Conclave where general managers from leading hotel brands from south India spoke about Bengaluru’s potential as a MICE destination. The panelists included: Puneet Dhawan, area general manager, Bengaluru & Chennai, Accor India, general manager – ibis & Bengaluru Techpark; Bhaskaran T, general manager, The Lalit Ashok Bangalore; JP Menon, VP and general manager, St. Marks Bangalore; Mahesh Pillai, resident manager, Zuri Bangalore; Sameer Sud, resident manager, The Leela Bangalore; Vinesh Gupta, general manager, Movenpick Bangalore. Some of factors that they deliberated upon during this panel discussion revolved around: How proactive is the state government in developing Bengaluru as one of India’s premier MICE hub; is MICE in the city overshadowed by brand Hyderabad, and more recently Chennai; what works in favour of Bengaluru; international standard convention facilities; infrastructure and other facilities to support MICE in the state; and other important issues.
The conclave is followed by the CeBIT Insight Series, a conference on leveraging the digital platform to enhance customer experiences in the hospitality industry. The Power of Purchase focuses on the new trends in purchasing, its role and the challenges for hospitality purchasing professionals. The concluding day will witness Hospitality Knowledge Exchange on Green Housekeeping. For the first time Professional Housekeepers Association will be participating in this session. The Baking Contest is a first time inclusion at this exhibition.