Hospitality Talks

For this milestone episode, Katy Moses, MD of KAM, is joined by a very special guest: James Hacon, Managing Partner at ThinkHospitality, who was also the very first guest on the podcast six years ago.From a late-night call at the start of lockdown to recording episode 100, this conversation reflects on how far the hospitality industry has come and the challenges and opportunities that continue to shape it.With a global perspective and honest reflection, this episode explores where hospitality is heading next and what UK operators can learn from markets around the world.A fitting conversation to mark 100 episodes of Hospitality Talks.

In this episode of Hospitality Talks, we’re joined by Kitty Newman, Founder of Trapeze Media, to unpack one of the biggest shifts facing hospitality marketing in 2026: the Less Healthy Food (LHF) advertising ban and HFSS legislation.From January 5th 2026, a total online ban on paid advertising featuring certain HFSS (High Fat, Salt and Sugar) products comes into force, and it’s set to significantly impact hospitality brands with 250+ employees.If you’re in hospitality, food retail, marketing or brand strategy, this episode's for you.

In this episode, Katy Moses, MD at KAM, talks to Éadaoin McDonagh, COO of White Rabbit Projects and MD of Lina Stores, about building hospitality brands with longevity. From Lina Stores’ heritage and design-led approach to White Rabbit’s work incubating and scaling concepts, this episode explores how customer insight, authenticity and experience shape successful hospitality businesses.

In this episode, Katy Moses, MD at KAM, talks to Greg Sergeant, Customer Experience Manager at Star Pubs, about how Star is evolving its customer strategy, the power of industry benchmarking and why meaningful insight, not just data, drives real change.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, sits down with Joby Mortimer, Director of Charity Services at the Licensed Trade Charity (LTC), to discuss the evolving role of the charity and the growing importance of well-being across pubs, bars, and breweries.Joby shares how the LTC supports people working in hospitality, why investing in mental health and welfare matters more than ever, and how a focus on well-being can transform both teams and customer experiences.Tune in for an open and inspiring conversation about people, purpose, and how caring for the workforce ultimately strengthens the entire industry.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, talks to Kim Handy, Head of People at Nightcap, about the importance of people, culture, and progression within hospitality — and what it takes to thrive in the late-night sector.Kim shares how Nightcap is investing in its teams, developing strong career pathways, and creating supportive environments where people can succeed. Together, they discuss leadership, retention, and how valuing people at every level drives long-term business success.Tune in for an inspiring and practical conversation about people-first hospitality, progression, and building thriving teams in one of the industry’s most dynamic spaces.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, chats with Tommy Giraux, Head of Restaurant Systems at Honest Burgers, about the growing role of AI in hospitality.Tommy shares how Honest Burgers is embracing artificial intelligence to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and support smarter business decisions. Together, they explore how AI can streamline operations, empower teams, and drive innovation across the industry — while keeping the human touch at the heart of hospitality.Tune in for a forward-thinking and practical discussion on technology, transformation, and the future of restaurant operations.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, sits down with Jason Perfect, Chief Operating Officer at Butcombe Group, to explore how the business is truly listening to its customers and evolving its offer in response.Jason shares how guest feedback, data, and on-the-ground insights are shaping decisions across the group — from menus and marketing to atmosphere and service. Together, they discuss the importance of staying agile, adapting to changing customer expectations, and building stronger brand loyalty in a competitive market.Tune in for a practical and inspiring conversation on customer insight, innovation, and the power of listening in hospitality.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, chats with Dan I’Anson about the latest research into the accessibility and visibility of alcohol-free drinks in the UK off-trade.They explore how consumer demand for low and no-alcohol options continues to evolve, what’s driving growth in the category, and where retailers and suppliers can do more to meet expectations. Dan shares key insights from KAM’s research and practical recommendations for brands looking to stand out in this fast-moving market.Tune in for a data-led discussion packed with insight, opportunity, and actionable ideas for anyone in the drinks industry.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, chats with Dan Hawkie, Chief Commercial Officer at TiPJAR, about the impact of the upcoming UK Budget on employee costs for hospitality businesses.Dan shares his insights on what operators can expect from potential changes, how rising costs could affect teams across the sector, and what practical steps brands can take to prepare. Together, they explore smart strategies to manage payroll pressures while keeping staff motivated and supported.Tune in for an informative and forward-thinking discussion packed with actionable advice for hospitality leaders navigating a challenging financial landscape.

In this episode, Jo Lynch, Account Director at KAM, sits down with Luis De Souza, CEO and Chairman at NFS Hospitality, to discuss technology’s evolving role in the hospitality sector.Luis shares his perspective on how digital tools and data are transforming operations, guest experiences, and profitability. Together, Jo and Luis explore the balance between innovation and human connection, and what businesses can do to future-proof their operations in an increasingly tech-driven world.Tune in for an insightful and forward-looking conversation packed with practical ideas for operators and leaders across hospitality.

To kick off 2025, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, sits down with Ann Elliott — hospitality industry legend and portfolio board advisor — for an inspiring start to the year.Ann shares her reflections on leadership, change, and the future of the sector, drawing on decades of experience supporting some of hospitality’s most successful brands. Together, they discuss the key opportunities and challenges facing the industry in 2025, and what business leaders can do to build stronger, more people-focused organisations.Tune in for an honest, insightful, and motivating conversation to set the tone for the year ahead in hospitality.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, catches up with Dawn Lawrence, CEO and Founder of Hospitality Jobs UK, to explore how the industry can make pub recruitment smarter, more effective, and more supportive for tenants and licensees.Dawn shares her expert insights on hiring challenges, the importance of employer branding, and how technology and data can help attract and retain the right talent. Together, they discuss practical ways to strengthen recruitment strategies and build a more resilient hospitality workforce.Tune in for an honest and insightful conversation packed with actionable advice for operators, recruiters, and anyone passionate about improving the people side of hospitality.

In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, sits down with Nisha Katona, CEO and Founder of Mowgli Street Food, to explore the journey behind one of the UK’s most beloved casual dining brands.Nisha shares her experiences of building a restaurant business and what it takes to keep culture and authenticity alive as you grow. Katy and Nisha also discuss the evolving dining landscape, leadership in hospitality, and advice for operators navigating today’s market.Tune in for an inspiring and honest conversation packed with insight, passion, and practical takeaways for anyone in the industry.

What did last year's UK Budget really mean for hospitality and foodservice?In this episode, Katy Moses, Managing Director at KAM, chats with Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, to unpack the key takeaways and explore what they mean for operators across the sector. From tax changes to staffing challenges and consumer confidence, Katy and Kate break down the implications and share practical advice on how businesses can adapt and thrive.Tune in for expert insight, clear analysis, and a forward-looking discussion on the future of UK hospitality.