About Arena
Run by industry people for industry people, Arena is the networking association for the foodservice and hospitality industry.
We make it our business to bring together decision makers and professionals from all sectors and inspire the introductions, encounters and exchange of ideas that make our industry exciting and fun.
Our lively networking events facilitate interesting, enlightening and potentially lucrative interaction with some of the industry’s brightest and best.
Rapid technological advancements have certainly changed the way we do business, but relationships and physical contact continue to be vital for success. We encourage and empower face-to-face meetings and this is why Arena continues to thrive as a relevant and valuable foodservice and hospitality industry asset.
Part of Arena's appeal is that it is not a commercial venture; it has always been a not-for-profit organisation, existing solely to foster relationships and strategic alliances between industry professionals. Since its inception in 1983, there have been some 60,000 attendees at Arena events, and membership at any one time is around the 2,000 mark.
Our network
Our diverse network touches the entire foodservice and hospitality industry.
From big-name industry giants through to smaller individual companies, we represent and bring together operators from the restaurant, hotel, pub and contract catering sectors; food and equipment manufacturers; distributors; suppliers; industry associations; industry charities and media.
Over 2,000 foodservice and hospitality professionals are connected with Arena. Can you and your business afford not to be one of them?
Take a look at our membership options and be one step closer to being part of our network.
Our events
Our famous and respected networking events are the backbone of Arena.
Always fully subscribed, they create a unique environment where colleagues, competitors, customers and suppliers from across the hospitality industry can get together in a relaxed atmosphere and on neutral territory.
With eight events throughout the year, attendees benefit from essential time away from the office to catch up with old associates, make new acquaintances, get up to date with the latest news and developments, discuss and share ideas, and even instigate business deals.
The guest list is always available to view prior to each event and we are always able to facilitate introductions on the day.
Inspirational guest speakers update and educate on current issues, offering a new perspective and approach, and something for the audience to really think about.
Take a look at our impressive list of past speakers and check out our next event – it may be just what you’re looking for.
Arena Futures
Launched in 2019, Arena Futures was created after we identified a need to help people newer to the foodservice and hospitality industry broaden their networks, build meaningful industry relationships and develop their confidence outside their own organisations.
Through smaller, informal networking events, Arena Futures brings together people from across the industry, giving them the opportunity to make new connections, learn from experienced industry leaders and build a network that can grow with their careers.
For businesses, Futures provides an opportunity to give their people greater exposure to the wider industry, helping them build the relationships, confidence and industry knowledge that benefit both their own development and the businesses they represent.
Arena members and attendees are automatically part of the Futures network, and delegates are encouraged to attend a mix of Arena and Arena Futures events to broaden their connections and make the most of the wider Arena community.
Arena Futures is also home to the Arena Networking Navigator (ANN), our practical development programme designed to give people the skills and confidence to build, nurture and make the most of their industry network.