UKHospitality has responded to the London Mayor’s draft London Food Strategy, welcoming a chance to engage and promote the hospitality sector.
UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “We are happy to respond to the Mayor’s consultation on a Food Strategy, and encouraged to see the Mayor’s Office is engaging with employers and seeking input from the sector.
“Businesses in the sector are already working hard to achieve some of the Mayor’s aims, by reducing the calorie content of their menus through reformulation and by providing even greater choice.
“UKHospitality’s members represent a broad brush of food businesses from restaurants and pubs, to quick service restaurants, fast food and contract catering. The food sector is a large and economically important one and it is vital that we have a supportive legislative system in place, particularly at this time of political uncertainty.
“Food is also becoming increasingly important to the late-night sector, which is itself incredibly important to the continued health of our high streets. I will be making this point in my position as Chair of the Night-time Commission to ensure that the capital’s ground-breaking nightclubs are recognised.
“Engagement with the sector is going to be crucial, particularly if we are going to secure a favourable tourism sector deal and prioritise training and employment in hospitality. The food sector, and the wider hospitality industry, is not only a vital part of London’s economy, but also critical socially. The capital boasts some world-renowned restaurants and food concepts and a supportive Mayor’s Office can ensure that this remains.”