The buzz around the CESA Light Equipment and Tableware Forum 2015 was optimistic, with both suppliers and distributors reporting a buoyant market. Continuing demand for that elusive point of difference has led to a surge in new product developments, reflected in the mind-blowing variety of new concepts on show.
The CESA Light Equipment and Tableware Forum (LETF) is the annual event where distributors can meet equipment suppliers to find out about the very latest gadgets, gizmos and concepts in the smallwares world – and get hands-on experience of the next ‘must haves’ for the caterer.
2015 is the first time the event has been held over two days (25-26 March, Whittlebury Hall Hotel, Towcester), reflecting both its popularity and the demand from distributors and suppliers. In fact, the event was the biggest in the Forum’s history, with more delegates and exhibitors than ever before.
CESA Chair Simon Frost welcomed attendees, saying, “I’m delighted that this year’s event has been planned with the full support of CEDA, CEDABOND and ENSE.”
Charity dinner
The 2015 Forum celebrated a special fundraising charity dinner on the first evening, during which the recipient of the CESA Donald Bird Award was announced. Created in memory of the late Donald Bird, who was a champion of the light equipment sector, the award will be made annually to an individual who has shown outstanding commitment to, and passion for, the industry. For its inaugural presentation Donald Bird’s son, Mike, gave a moving and amusing speech. The winner was Anita Collins of Lockhart, of whom judges said, “She has consistently contributed to the industry and is a benchmark for all aspiring table top professionals with her commitment, knowledge and honest approach.”
Andy Savage of Lockhart won Sales Professional of the Year, which includes a £500 cheque and entry onto the CFSP accreditation programme. Lockhart completed a ‘clean sweep’ in the 2015 Forum awards by also winning the Distributor Cup, awarded to the company which has done most to support sales of light equipment during the year.
The dinner included a charity ‘night at the races’, which raised £1100 for St John Ambulance, a charity Donald Bird supported keenly.
Featured Product Award
The last award of the Forum was presented at the end of the second day, when delegates voted for their favourite ‘Featured Product.’ It was won by Nevilles for the company’s Genware stoneware (pictured top), which comes in three ranges: Luna, Black and Rustic. Nevilles says: “The ranges provide individuality and flair to food presentation, complementing the vibrancy and colourful nature of the varying food trends currently in the market place.”
Trending @ LETF 2015
Afternoon tea – after years of taking a back seat to coffee in the fashion stakes, tea – and specifically afternoon tea – is all the rage. From cups to cake stands, there was a host of products designed to enhance the teatime table.
Breakfast – specifically, breakfast served in a frying pan.
Bamboo – popular with manufacturers because it is fast-growing and versatile.
Wood fibre – a sustainable alternative to polyethylene cutting boards – tough, heat resistant, dishwash-proof and ideal for cutting, displaying and serving food.
Buffet display – there’s huge demand from customers for new ways with buffets and suppliers are responding with a mind-blowing range of ideas, from induction warmers to spectacular displays.
Small plates world – one exhibitor described it as ‘the theatre of beautiful clutter.’ Miniature plates and serving dishes are being used to create theatrical tabletop displays.
Copper and brass cookware – for both cooking and serving. It’s not just about appearance, it’s also copper’s superior heat conducting properties.
Portioning – eliminating food waste from over-sized portions is a focus for many of the larger chains.
Retro – it’s already happening in Europe, where operators are clamouring for the aged, distressed, shabby chic look.
The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) is the authoritative voice of the catering equipment industry, representing over 170 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment – from utensils to full kitchen schemes.
For more information on CESA click here