New dates and events for EPPS 2021.

New dates and new events for EPPS 2021

After being forced to take a year out due to the pandemic, the European Pizza & Pasta Show (EPPS) is set to return in October 2021 to the Olympia Exhibition Centre, London, with plans for a bigger event with more cooking programmes and competitions, say organisers.

The show, which is now five years old, and supported by the Pizza Pasta & Italian Food Association (PAPA), will feature a broad range of exhibitors from around the world covering all sectors of the market, from Italian restaurants to pizza delivery.

As well as showcasing some of the innovations that have emerged during the lockdowns of 2020, the show will provide a much needed opportunity for this £4 billion UK industry to get together with opportunities for renewing contacts and networking. It will also provide the backdrop for the finals of the UK Pizza Chef of the Year competitions.

Now well established as the premier exhibition for the European pizza, pasta and Italian food industry, EPPS 2021 is expected to include exhibitors from the USA as well as from across Europe.

“I am very excited that the show has been able to secure key dates in October (18 and 19) at Olympia, which has always been our first choice as it provides the exhibitors and visitors easy access to central London and to the airports,” said Slava Blagoeva, the show’s director. “The timing is also perfect as it is well ahead of the busy Christmas season.”

“EPPS is the annual showcase for our industry - it was really missed in 2020. The return of the show in 2021 will provide a real fillip for everyone and an opportunity for us all to catch up again and start thinking positively about the future,” added PAPA director, Jim Winship.

For more information on how to exhibit, please contact the team behind the European Pizza and Pasta Show, 18-19 October 2021, National Hall, Olympia, London at info@pizzapastashow.com or call 0207 352 4356.

Pizza Hut Delivery UK appoints Christie & Co

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has been appointed by Pizza Hut Delivery to expand its delivery and takeaway offering across the UK. Following significant increased demand for Pizza Hut Delivery, Christie & Co will assist Pizza Hut in acquiring new sites by converting existing operators to franchisees of one of Britain’s favourite household brands. Through its existing franchise network, Pizza Hut Delivery already has over 600 sites in the UK, 380 of which are delivery and takeaway only locations in the UK.

The company says that it is initially seeking 125 new sites to expand its delivery and takeaway offerings, seeking franchisees in the North East and South West of England in particular. It is looking for either new partners who will share its love for the brand, the product and its customers, or to work with experienced and proven operators who are committed to company growth and who are willing to invest over the short, medium, and long term in all aspects of the business.

Opportunity for growth in the current climate is significant, they add. Demand for delivery has grown during lockdown, with more than half a million more orders compared to the same period in 2019 – a trend which is expected to be here to stay. For business owners and entrepreneurs alike, working with the support of a global brand like Pizza Hut presents great profit potential and international know-how which can be extended through operational improvements, refurbishments, improved marketing, new store openings and in organic growth, point out Christie & Co.

Neil Manhas, general manager UK at Pizza Hut Delivery, said: “Pizza Hut Delivery has been a beloved brand in communities across the UK for decades and we’re excited to build on this strength and continue expanding our reach in the UK. Pizza Hut Delivery was designated an essential service during lockdown and continued to operate, successfully feeding the nation during these difficult times and donating over 250,000 free meals to the NHS. We have always played a part in our local communities and we’re delighted to build on this as the demand for delivery services only increases.”

Simon Chaplin, senior director at Christie & Co, who is handling the project, added: “We are very excited to be working with Pizza Hut in the expansion of its delivery business. We are using our industry knowledge to seek out ambitious entrepreneurs who wish to become part of the Pizza Hut Delivery brand by becoming regional franchisees through the conversion of their own stores. We are sure the support and benefits of being part of such an international operation will be of interest to many as it brings with it a wealth of advantages over the competition and ultimately the opportunity to grow in this fast moving sector.”