The National Restaurant, Pub & Bar Show 2026 Exhibitor List

Voted ‘Most People-Focused CEO’ at the HR Excellence Awards in 2013, as the CEO of T.G.I Friday’s UK, Forrester is widely credited with the revival of the brand over the last six years (she joined the company as managing director in 2007). By investing heavily in her team members and their training, to ensure guests receive the best possible experience, and embracing new growth opportunities, the number of restaurants in the American-themed chain has grown from 46 to its current 61 (despite the recession). A further 60 outlets are planned by 2020.

CEO Stephen Holmes has led ASK Italian through a significant period of change over the last five years. The multi-million pound transformation has touched every aspect of the brand, from the classic Italian dishes to the bold Milanese inspired contemporary design, and the warm, welcoming service. With 109 sites and over 2,000 employees, the business, originally founded in 1993, is now enjoying considerable momentum – and growth.

Alasdair Murdoch has 20+ years’ experience in the restaurant industry. Prior to joining GBK as its CEO three years ago, Murdoch’s CV includes area manager for pub group Taylor Walker, operations director at KFC, MD of the Pizza Hut business in France, CEO of Pizza Hut UK for 3 years, and head of Pizza Express’s international business in Barcelona. Like Holmes and Forrester, Murdoch has overseen the turnaround of a much-loved brand. By investing significantly in the quality of the food, re-investing in the restaurants, and developing the GBK teams in each restaurant, GBK is now poised for growth with strong like-for-like sales and seven openings in the next six months.

Anthony Pender, the new chairman of the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) and managing director of The Yummy Pub Company. He’ll be outlining his vision for the future of hospitality, discussing how raising standards in licensed retail can benefit the whole casual dining sector.

Kate Nicholls, new CEO of The Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR). Nicholls looks ahead to next May’s general election, outlining the likely impact of a change in government – in terms of rents, rates, tax and food – for pub and restaurant operators.