Loungers: drinking, dining, thriving

Alex Reilley executive chair

In this fireside chat, Alex will discuss Loungers’ magic formula: driving expansion into small towns and secondary high streets and adding community value whilst maintaining healthy margins. He’ll share the pitfalls of being publicly listed, and why the price for going private was the right one. Finally, he’ll update us on ambitions from the Loungers brand, how Cosy Club and Brightside fit into the strategy, and what’s next, under new ownership.

Nightcap: going private, diversification and a helicopter view on strategy

Sarah Willingham CEO & founder

Fresh from the acquisition of the world’s tallest moving observation tower, the Brighton i360, Sarah Willingham will share how Nightcap will bring its night-time hospitality expertise to the seaside landmark. The entrepreneur will also discuss taking her company private, her strategy for beating the challenges in the night-time economy, and building an inclusive culture at the growing company.

Urban Pubs & Bars: an entrepreneurial approach at Longdon's biggest independant operator

Chris Hill managing director

Since it was founded 11 years ago, fast-growing Urban Pubs & Bars has expanded to an estate of 54 pubs, bars and restaurants across the capital. The much-admired, award-winning company boasts an estate of prominent city pubs and bars, alongside the Salt Yard collection of Mediterranean-inspired restaurants, and emerging experiential concept Bat & Ball. In this keynote presentation, managing director Chris Hill will share the vision and values behind the entrepreneurial operator-led company, how it plays to the evolving needs of discerning customers, as well as future plans for growth.

Panel: the sector's best, rising to the sustainability challenge

• David Briggs divisional director, Mitchells & Butlers
• Jon Dale strategic corporate affairs & ESG lead, Punch Pubs & Co
• Martin Godden director of property services, Shepherd Neame

As the world faces ever-pressing environmental challenges, pub operators are looking at ways to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. This panel, featuring finalists from MCA’s Hospitality Awards 2025, will explore how pub companies are seeking more sustainable sourcing and supply chains, the role of energy-efficient technology, renewable energy and waste reduction; as well as the cost implications and return on investment when investing in green.

Parogon Group: Award-winning destination dining & plans for expansion

Richard Colclough co-founder and managing director

From its original vision to turn landmark properties into vibrant dining venues, Parogon has become an award-winning, destination food-led operator. Richard will discuss the mix of daypart propositions, property types and concepts such as its all-day Willow brand, and rolling out beyond its Staffordshire heartland. He will also share the company’s mission and pride in being recognised as one of Top 10 large companies to work for within the Sunday Times Top 100, as well as its B Corp certification.

Incipio Group: Category-defying destination venue

Ed Devenport CEO, co-founder

As it marks its 10-year anniversary, multi-concept group Incipio continues to evolve and establish itself, as it prepares to launch its biggest project yet, a 39,000 sq ft of F&B space at West London’s Olympia redevelopment. With a strong track record of operating destination venues and City hangouts, Incipio CEO and co-founder Ed Devenport will profile the Prince and Pergola operator’s diverse range concepts, growth opportunities in and outside of London, and why the group has a winning food and drink offering.