Events
Conference delegates listen to a speaker at the 2012 LACA National Conference
here, it’s all about making the school meals industry the best it can be – even more so when considering the economic climate in which the event takes place. “Local Authorities are facing severe budget pressures and many colleagues are reviewing services to identify savings though efficiencies,” she says. “Due to the economic climate, many families are suffering hardship and this can be seen with free meal statistics, which are increasing in many areas. This is why I thought the theme ‘Breaking the Boundaries’ was appropriate,” she explains. “I don’t think I’ve seen times as tough in the industry as they are now and we all need a place where we can ‘problem- share’, see that we have a lot in common
28 June 2013 “We are all in the industry
to provide the best possible service to our customers and school children”
and together find solutions for our issues.” A lot of work has been performed in the regions to promote LACA at quarterly meetings, and the introduction of a mid- term Association seminar means that the new name highlights the event as a date that anyone working within the education catering industry can join in with – three days of entirely focused seminars, workshops and networking. Despite the number of days it will run, The Main
Event will prove a challenge to anybody wanting to take it all in, says Anne. “There are about 130 to 140 exhibitors, not too mention the workshops, demonstration kitchens and competitions – just getting through the exhibition alone is quite a task.” Then there are the opportunities to
listen to top speakers and meet with industry experts, as well as colleagues at a local, regional and national level. “I look forward to this year with some trepidation, not
least because I have the opening and closing address to do, but because I know that I spend a lot of time talking to colleagues, who I may only see once a year, but are important to make contact with,” she remarks. “This means I will have even less time to make it around the exhibitions and events this year!”
GET WITH THE PROGRAMME
Anne is particularly excited by some of the speakers this year’s conference has managed to attract.
“I don’t think I’ve seen as many great speakers on one programme,” she says. She points out that one of the workshops will involve ‘Reggae man’ Levi Roots, who will bring along his jovial banter and
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