Two top industry professionals talk about the opportunities and challenges of retail gastronomy.
Will Odwarka and Jonathan Doughty are among the most experienced F&B experts in the retail gastronomy scene in Europe. In the 11th installment of the ACROSS Discuss series, they discuss the importance of competitive socializing in the F&B sector, and take a glimpse at renowned examples that showcase what a recipe for success looks like.
The latest episode in our ACROSS Discuss series features the concept of competitive socializing. The concept in the F&B industry is not new, but much of its original charm has been polished through the improvements in gaming technology, with great examples, among them Formula 1 Arcade and Lane7 from the UK, leading the way. After people staying closed-up at home during COVID, the concept has become ever more important in bringing family, colleagues, and friends back together.
Especially in terms of corporate hospitality, F&B venues focusing around the concept of competitive socializing are highly successful, as there are currently many companies looking to reunite their teams outside of the office, with leisurely activities.
Join us as we delve into this topic.
Will Odwarka
Will Odwarka is the Founder and CEO of Dubai-based firm Heartatwork Hospitality Consulting since 2019, and a member of the ACROSS Advisory Board. He was born and raised in Vienna, Austria. He has 30+ years of experience leading international strategic growth and development, Franchise and partner management, and F&B operations. He successfully opened over 1000+ outlets in over 40 countries for renowned global players such as McDonald’s, Starbucks, Burger King, Costa, and Wendy’s and smaller players like Creamscafe and Coffeeshopcompany. He strongly focuses on international market entry for F&B players, brand and investor scouting, and AI in hospitality in the Middle East and Europe.
Jonathan Doughty
As a highly experienced F&B professional, Jonathan Doughty, also a Member of the ACROSS Advisory Board, has worked at all corporate levels, and has held both executive and non-executive board roles, as well as special advisory appointments and acted in training roles. He has extensive experience around the world in hospitality, property, food and beverage and commercial real estate. Having worked remotely, in situ and on demand in over 30 countries, he is recognised as a leading professional in both the foodservice and commercial property industry.
