Hospitality Exchange Programme
Tuesday 14th October 2025
The Industry Unpacked
09.45 - £37
Turning influence, marketing, and excellence into long-term profit.
From Posts to Profits
Chloë Henning on how authentic influencer collaborations can boost brand impact, drive bookings and create great guest experiences.
In Conversation with Aktar Islam
Two-starred Michelin chef on how to blend culinary creativity with digital influence to transform the way your business is perceived.
Target Gen Z
Jane McDaid explores the perils of Youthwashing and details how to attract the next generation with authentic marketing.
Making Marketing Matter James Peach shares how clear, purpose-driven marketing and powerful storytelling can inspire audiences, build resilience, and drive success.
The Leadership Lunch
13.00 - £55
Alex Polizzi, renowned hotelier and TV presenter on life as the Hotel Inspector and beyond.
Rising Stars
Hosted by Pamela Ballantine and featuring the Rising Star Awards supported by Ulster Bank, this is a celebration of stellar talent and a fascinating insight into hotel life.
Delegate Lounge
All Day - Free
Networking before and after the seminars.
AGM
15.30 - Free to Members
Annual General Meeting for NIHF Members.
Supported by Ulster Bank, Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities, Classic Drinks, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Sysco.
Delegate Lounge supported by Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Henderson Foodservice.
Wednesday 15th October 2025 - AM
Business Breakfast
08.00 - £37
From numbers to know-how: navigating the road ahead with your host, Mark Simpson.
Hotel Expansion
An overview of accommodation growth, development pipelines, and the potential “bedroom boom” on the horizon for 2026.
Hotel Performance & Forecast
The latest intelligence on hotel performance and a dive into the future with Sarah Duignan.
Profit under Pressure
Panel discussion on financial pressures, sector challenges, and strategies to thrive and survive.
Talking Tourism
10.30 - £30
The storm forces shaping the visitor economy and how to navigate your way around them.
Future Figures
Economist Richard Ramsey brings his wry wit to the big macro trends in the economy and how they could affect your business.
An Eventful Year
From The Open to the Fleadh Cheoil; a debate on the power of events.
10 Top Tourism Trends Yannick Cabrol from EY looks at the big topics in tourism for 2025.
Tourism Together A conversation with Alice Mansergh from Tourism Ireland and Laura McCorry from Tourism Northern Ireland.
Supported by AIB Bank, Percipient, Savills, STR, Sumer NI and Visit Belfast.
Supported by Brother Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.
Wednesday 15th October 2025 - PM
Speaker Lunch
13.00 - £55
To be confirmed.
The Wickedly Wonderful Gala Ball
19.30 - £120
Follow the yellow brick road to an enchanting night of food, wine and spellbinding entertainment.
Supported by Foot Anstey McKees, Bibendum Wines, Coca-Cola HBC NI and Henderson Foodservice.
Supported by Linencare, Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities, Coca-Cola HBC NI, Diageo, Mews, Pattison & Co, SBD Events and Spiritly.
Additional Support
Bank of Ireland, Bunzl McLaughlin, Johnsons Belfast, Winterhalter.
Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council, Belfast City Council, Mid & East Antrim Borough Council, Newry, Mourne & Down District Council.
Media Partner: Licensed and Catering News