Steve Hedberg, VP Operations, Full Service Managed Hotels & Resorts
“Some of the highlights of the NRA show for
me are confirming current programs with
vendors (such as our liquor, beer, and wine
vendors) and comparing current speci-
fied products that we already use with new
products out there that may be a better value.
I also like to see what’s new with technology
and how that can be leveraged to be more ef-
ficient and profitable for our operation. We’re
looking at anything that can make us more
productive as well as PCI compliant. I like to
see new products and trends that help us get
ahead of the curve whenever possible, and we
always look for new ideas to make our special
programs more attractive to potential customers.
Overall, the NRA show is great entertainment
with great venues and networking!”
KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS San Francisco, California (Headquarters)
Niki Leondakis, Chief Operating Officer
“Highlights of the NRA show for me include getting a first look at the
new tabletop items. I always seek out china, glass, and silver, as well as
new serviceware. It’s also interesting to get ideas for unique and new
ways to serve food and beverages
at our 50 restaurants, lounges,
and nightclubs. I find that new
serviceware designs often follow the
current dining trends, whether it’s
plates that make sharing food easier
or stemware that complements
the pairing of food and cocktails. I
also look forward to checking out
the Conserve Solutions Center. It’s
dedicated to helping restaurants become
greener to reduce their impact
on the environment, while increasing
their bottom line. The International
Wine, Spirits & Beer event
is also key for checking out what’s
new in the world of sommeliers,
mixologists, and brewmasters.”
BARONA RESORT & CASINO Lakeside, California
Duncan Firth, Chef de Cuisine
“What I’m looking for at the NRA show is energy and/or water
savings in the equipment I see, especially working in Southern
California, as well as knowledgeable salespeople. Also, I’m looking
for appliances that are simple to operate and easy to repair. Overall,
walking the floor of the NRA show, with hundreds of exhibitors,
and in the company of thousands
of my fellow culinarians,
hoteliers, and hospitality
employees can be overwhelming,
so I have a few tips to help
make the experience better for
everyone: Don’t bring suitcases
on wheels to fill with free key
chains, pens, and notepads—
they clog up the aisles. Have
each booth you visit scan your
badge if you are truly interested
in the product or service.
Finally, make a list of the items
or categories of items that you
are looking for; it will help keep
you focused.”
MANDARIN ORIENTAL MIAMI Miami, Florida
Antonio Recillas, Director of F&B
“The NRA show is an opportunity to
look for innovative items that can help us
enhance our operation. We have a broad
spectrum of categories on our list, but our
main focus is anything that will enhance
our service and ultimately our overall guest
experience. We also look for organic liquors,
sustainable food items, and high-end coffee
drinks that fit the profile of our property.
We’re very aware of trends, and we understand
that good quality products and services
begin with partnerships between vendors
and hospitality professionals. The NRA show
is the best forum for this to happen.”
