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Wednesday, March 26
 

11:00am PDT

Keynote: Beyond the Glass: Exploring Unexpected Directions in Beverage Innovation
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Innovation in the beverage industry isn’t just about what’s in the glass—it’s about creating new avenues for growth and profitability. As guest expectations evolve, forward-thinking operators are discovering unconventional ways to enhance margins, optimize efficiency, and create memorable experiences that drive revenue. This session will explore bold strategies that go beyond traditional beverage programs, offering actionable insights on how to maximize impact, differentiate in a competitive market, and turn innovation into a powerful business advantage
Speakers
avatar for Dale DeGroff

Dale DeGroff

Author, The New Craft of the Cocktail, Partner, Degroff Spirits
Master Mixologist Dale DeGroff developed his extraordinary techniques and talent tending bar at the legendary Rainbow Room, where in the 1980’s, he pioneered a gourmet approach to recreating the classic cocktails. DeGroff has since been credited with reviving the profession of bartending... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Room #222/223

12:00pm PDT

Expo Hall - Open to All!
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Explore the dynamic Bar & Restaurant Expo Hall, where innovation meets opportunity! Discover the latest products, services, and solutions that can take your business to the next level. With access and complimentary samples included in all registration passes, this is your chance to taste, test, and connect with top industry suppliers.
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall

12:00pm PDT

Badge Perk! Jason Aldean's Kitchen & Bar
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
2 for 1 cocktail, beer or wine! Present badge on the Club Level to redeem. Show your Bar & Restaurant Expo badge

Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Jason Aldean's Kitchen & Bar

12:30pm PDT

Beyond the Bank: Crowdfunding Lightning Round
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 12:55pm PDT
Raising capital in hospitality is changing fast—are you keeping up? In this fast-paced, no-fluff session, I’ll break down how Gin & Luck has raised $12M+ through Reg CF, Reg D, and two Reg A offerings, unlocking non-traditional funding to fuel expansion without giving up control.

We’ll dive into equity crowdfunding, private placements, and developer-backed deals, showing how these tools can work together to build a capital stack that maximizes growth while minimizing risk. Whether you’re looking to open your next location, expand a multi-unit operation, or future-proof your funding strategy, this session will give you real-world insights, practical takeaways, and a roadmap to raising the right capital—on your terms.
Speakers
avatar for David Kaplan

David Kaplan

CEO, Gin & Luck
In the summer of 2006, at 24 years old, David opened Death & Company, a cocktail bar in the East Village of Manhattan. In the years that followed, David, along with Alex Day, founded Proprietors LLC, a hospitality consulting and management company which has opened over 50 bars and... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 12:55pm PDT
Spotlight Stage, Expo Floor

12:30pm PDT

F&B Innovation Center Demo with Chef Tim Witcher
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm PDT
Buttermilk Fried Donuts & Dips
Sea salt caramel, pickled raspberry, white chocolate, espresso milk chocolate
Speakers
avatar for Tim Witcher

Tim Witcher

Owner, The Wing Kitchen
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:00pm PDT
FBIC Stage, 2nd floor Expo Hall

1:00pm PDT

The Consumers' Impact on 2025 Food Away from Home Industry Forecast
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:25pm PDT
A new President, a cautious consumer, and an unsteady economy all could have an impact on operator spending in 2025. To separate the hype from reality, get the latest segment growth projections for 2025, including the why behind the numbers.       
Speakers
avatar for Charlie McConnell

Charlie McConnell

Vice President of Industry Insights, Research, and Education, IFMA The Food Away from Home Association
In his role with IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, Charlie ensures that members and the larger ecosystem stay informed of the industry's state and the changes happening. Additionally, he leads the training pillar of the Association, having taught Foodservice Fundamentals over... Read More →
avatar for Phil Kafarakis

Phil Kafarakis

President & CEO, IFMA The Food Away from Home Association
Phil Kafarakis is a global food industry executive with more than 40 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing, as well as managing non-profit food industry associations. Currently, Phil serves as President & CEO of IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, a U.S. trade... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:25pm PDT
Spotlight Stage, Expo Floor

1:00pm PDT

Fusing Marketing, Charity, and Competition in the Hospitality Industry
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Learn how to create an engaging industry night that boosts sales during slow months, fosters community support, and adds excitement with friendly competition. This session will guide you in setting up a successful event that unites hospitality workers and gives back to the hospitality community while building lasting relationships with local businesses and suppliers.
Participants will learn:
  • How to organize a competition that attracts hospitality professionals and builds camaraderie.
  • Effective strategies for marketing the event on social media to maximize attendance.
  • Techniques to engage the community and ensure long-term participation.
  • How to partner with suppliers and local businesses for sponsorship and support.
  • Key steps to manage high volumes and optimize your venue for a seamless, successful event.

Moderators
avatar for Michael Elefante

Michael Elefante

Co-Creator, Tucson Knife Fight
Chef Michael Elefante is a Tucson native who grew up in the kitchen helping his father and grandfather make pasta, pizza and sauce. In order to gain more experience in the culinary world, Chef Elefante joined the culinary team at The Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain in 2010. He moved up... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Rico Hominda

Rico Hominda

Videographer, Tuscon Knife Fight
My name is Rico and I'm a freelance graphic designer, photographer and videographer from Tucson, Arizona. I also co-host a morning radio show on KFMA and work as a door bouncer on the weekends. I've befriended and worked with Gary and Michael for a couple of years now and it's wonderful... Read More →
avatar for Gary Hickey

Gary Hickey

Co-founder, Tucson Knife Fight
Tucson knife fight is a local community cooking contest that raises funds for food service employees. But also injects over $80,000 in local revenue every year.
avatar for Michael R Lopez

Michael R Lopez

DJ/Producer, Master Mixx Pro Dj's AZ / Knife Fight Tucson AZ
Michael Lopez has been on the decks longer than most people can remember.  Playing along side of some of the best in and on Radio Stations, Clubs, and Venues from San Diego to Miami, Dj Michael Bignut Lopez has played and seen it all. A well respected DJ in the 520 and 619, Michael... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #226/227
  Conference Session

1:00pm PDT

Hospitality Heroes: Engaging Your Front of House for Outstanding Guest Experiences
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
This session highlights the vital role front-of-house staff play in crafting memorable guest experiences. Gain actionable strategies to energize and empower your team, ensuring they deliver exceptional service that transforms first-time visitors into loyal patrons.
Participants will know how to: 
  • Empower staff to make on-the-spot decisions that enhance guest experiences.
  • Build a culture of recognition that celebrates outstanding service and teamwork.
  • Enhance training focusing on soft skills like empathy and conflict resolution.
  • Personalize guest interactions by remembering preferences and special occasions.
  • Foster a feedback-driven environment to encourage continuous improvement.

Sponsored by:
Moderators
avatar for Nesha Arbano

Nesha Arbano

Event Producer, Duke and Van Deusen
Nesha Abarno is a dynamic leader in the hospitality and event industries with over 20 years of experience. Renowned for managing top-tier restaurants and producing high-stakes events, she has expertly helmed iconic venues like La Esquina and Beauty & Essex NYC, both celebrated for... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Jess Rowland

Jess Rowland

Service and Hospitality Expert, The Restaurant Launch
With over 45,000 hours of server training experience, Jess Rowland is a true leader in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Over the past 26 years as a Regional Trainer for Hillstone, Jess played a key role in reinventing their 47-year-old service manual, creating one of the best... Read More →
avatar for Christopher McFadden

Christopher McFadden

Founder & Hospitality Career Coach, The McFadden Group
Christopher brings over 25 years of experience in restaurant management and sommelier roles, primarily on Canada’s West Coast, giving him a deep and confident understanding of the hospitality industry's needs.  In 2022, he returned to his hometown of Burlington, Ontario, with his... Read More →

Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #221

1:00pm PDT

The Pricing Paradox: Balancing Cost Control and Revenue Growth in Bars and Restaurants
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Striking the right balance between managing costs and driving revenue is one of the most challenging aspects of running a successful bar or restaurant. This session dives into actionable strategies for pricing menus effectively, maintaining profitability, and staying competitive in an ever-evolving market. Gain the tools to optimize pricing while enhancing guest satisfaction and loyalty.
Participants will:
  • Learn how menu pricing influences customer perception and drives purchasing decisions.
  • Explore tactics for managing food, beverage, and labor costs while maintaining high standards.
  • Discover how to strategically price and structure menus to increase profitability and guide guest choices.
  • Leverage industry data and consumer behavior insights to stay ahead of pricing shifts.
  • Design promotions that align with your pricing strategy and attract repeat business.
Sponsored by:
Speakers
avatar for Alexander Fletcher

Alexander Fletcher

Owner, Shaken and Stirred Hospitality
Alex Fletcher is the owner of Shaken And Stirred Hospitality and formerly served as the national beverage director and head of sustainability for Hospitality Alliance. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Alex has focused on positivity, sustainability, creativity... Read More →

Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #224/225

1:00pm PDT

Bar & Restaurant Triage: Tailored Solutions for Established Venues and Scaling Operations
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Designed specifically for established independent restaurants and multi-unit operators with 2-25 units, this session tackles the unique challenges for established businesses or those currently in an active scale-up phase.
This 2-hour "triage" session is tailored for those facing specific business challenges or actively scaling up operations.
After brief introductions and opening remarks, three industry consultants will provide targeted insights on these key areas: People & Staffing, Operations & Financials, and Digital & Social Media Marketing, focusing on solutions that drive growth and streamline operations.
Choose from these breakout discussions to gain one-on-one coaching that addresses your current challenge or questions. Get ready to leave with tailored, actionable insights to help you scale effectively and enhance your business’s long-term success. Attendees can move from table to table once they have received the feedback they need.

What to Do When You Arrive:
Join a Table: Choose from one of the three breakout discussions:
  • People & Staffing – Hiring, retention, and team performance
  • Operations & Financials – Cost control, profit drivers, and operational efficiency
  • Digital & Social Media Marketing – Building engagement and driving sales online
Engage at Your Own Pace: Ask your question if you have one — or just listen in to the small group discussion.
Move Freely: Once you’ve received the feedback you need, you’re welcome to switch to another table or continue the conversation.
Take Action: Leave with tailored, actionable strategies to scale your business effectively.
Speakers
avatar for Chip Klose

Chip Klose

Restaurant Coach, Restaurant Strategy
Chip Klose is the host of the Restaurant Strategy podcast, author of The Restaurant Marketing Mindset, and founder of the P3 Mastermind. He has an MBA in Food Marketing from Saint Joseph’s University and over 25 years of operational experience. His mission is to help independent... Read More →
avatar for Monte Silva

Monte Silva

CEO, Ten Tables Hospitality
Monte has 25 years of executive leadership experience in the Hospitality industry. Prior to that, he started his career like many, as a dishwasher. He worked through all of the front of house and back of house hourly positions and into management. 2 years into his restaurant management... Read More →
avatar for Kenneth Kneif

Kenneth Kneif

Managing Director, Hospitality Resource Group
Kenneth has accumulated more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, stemming from his passion for cooking as a child. He has operated a successful hospitality and management consulting company, Hospitality Resource Group, for the past 15 years. Kenneth's expertise... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room #233
  Conference Session, Business Triage

1:00pm PDT

WS7 Building a Profitable Brand Identity: Telling Your Hospitality Story to Drive Revenue, Customer Loyalty and Success
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
In this dynamic workshop, participants will learn how to craft a compelling and flexible brand story that aligns their hospitality project with community values and supports sustainable growth. Through interactive activities, we’ll guide you in defining core brand values, refining your messaging, and ensuring consistent communication with employees, partners, and customers.
  • Identify and define core brand values for long-term success.
  • Develop a compelling brand story that resonates with your community.
  • Learn how to communicate consistently across all stakeholder groups.
  • Build a brand story that remains adaptable as your project grows.
  • Gain practical tools to structure and discipline your brand messaging efforts.
**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Judy Bennett

Judy Bennett

Co-owner, American 35
Judy Bennett is a physical therapist, certified wellness consultant, and bartender. She now co-owns a single-location Neapolitan pizza restaurant with her husband in a small rural Washington town. She has traveled the country delivering workshops to groups large and small on the topic... Read More →
avatar for Thomas Bennett

Thomas Bennett

Owner, American 35
Thomas Bennett is co-owner of American 35 restaurant in Waitsburg WA. Along with his wife, Judy, he renovated an 1895 historic building and is now pursuing awards for hospitality and quality in a wine-tourism region. He also runs a catering company using a mobile wood-fired oven on... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room #229/230
  Workshop

1:00pm PDT

WS8: How to Avoid 3 Deadly Mistakes in Labor Cost
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Labor costs are a real challenge for restaurants that want to make money. Restaurant owners have to battle with a lot of variables to control their labor cost and create success from things that are out of their control. For example, there is rising minimum wage – could be going as high as $22/hour in some places, labor laws that freeze scheduled hours for staff, a fear of working people so hard they leave and don’t forget the cost of providing the best service possible. What is a restaurant owner to do? How can you give good service, keep your team happy and make money? In this session, David Scott Peters, restaurant expert and coach, will teach restaurant owners three deadly mistakes commonly made in managing labor hours and how to correct them. Attendees will learn the formulas to properly plan for and manage these mistakes and leave with the knowledge and tools to fix it immediately. Attend this session to learn:
  • How to successfully budget for labor
  • How to identify shifts where you are over staffed
  • How to track and control labor cost
  • How to avoid overstaffing
  • How to teach and lead your team to run the right ideal labor cost
**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for David Scott Peters

David Scott Peters

Founder, DavidScottPeters.com
David Scott Peters is a restaurant expert who teaches restaurant operators how to cut costs and increase profits with his trademark Restaurant Prosperity Formula. He’s taught thousands of restaurants how to use operational systems and create a hospitality-based company culture to... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room #231/232
  Workshop

1:15pm PDT

F&B Innovation Center Demo with Chef Nick Liberato
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:15pm - 1:45pm PDT
Duck Confit Tostada
Avocado, burnt onion powder, micro cilantro, micro epazote & chicharrónes
Speakers
avatar for Nick Liberato

Nick Liberato

The Borscht Belt Delicatessen, Owner/Chef
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:15pm - 1:45pm PDT
FBIC Stage, 2nd floor Expo Hall

1:30pm PDT

USBG Shake It Up National Final - Flair
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Access to watch the Shake It Up Competition is included in all registration passes.

Bar & Restaurant Expo is the official location for the United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) National Cocktail Competition.

Get ready to witness the cocktail event of the year – the electrifying USBG Shake It Up Competition that will have you on the edge of your seats!

Watch this thrilling competition as the most talented bartenders go head-to-head in a battle of creativity, speed, and skill. Witness mind-blowing cocktail concoctions that push the boundaries of what you thought a drink could be.

Support the bartender community and cheer on the National Finalists in both the Classic and Flair Division!

Spotlight Stage, Future Proof Experience
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Spotlight Stage, Expo Floor

2:00pm PDT

F&B Innovation Center Demo with Chef Bobby Marcotte
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
Duck Duck Cuban
Honey-rubbed duck breast, spiced confit duck, aged gouda, guajillo cran mostarda, pickled fennel & cukes
Speakers
avatar for Bobby

Bobby "The Butcher" Marcotte

Founder, Grindhouse Meat Company
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
FBIC Stage, 2nd floor Expo Hall

2:00pm PDT

Acing the Bar Exam: A Legal Survival Guide for Bar and Restaurant Operators.
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Join a veteran bar operator and lawyer for a concise overview of the legal factors that can shape the long-term success of your business. This session covers critical topics like business formation, property acquisition, licensing, and compliance, offering actionable insights for navigating the complex legal challenges of the hospitality industry.
Session participants will: 
  • Understand the key legal considerations for starting and structuring a hospitality business.
  • Learn strategies for property acquisition and lease negotiations.
  • Gain insights into licensing and compliance requirements for bar and restaurant operations.
  • Identify common legal pitfalls and how to mitigate risks effectively.
  • Equip yourself with practical knowledge to address legal challenges at any stage of business growth.
Sponsored by:
Speakers
avatar for George Qualley

George Qualley

Operating Partner/ Partner, Nightingale Cocktail /Qualley Law, P.L.C.
George Qualley is a distinguished attorney and entrepreneur based in Des Moines, Iowa. He studied Political Science and swam competitively at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln before earning his Juris Doctorate and MBA from Drake University and Drake Law School. Licensed to practice... Read More →

Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #224/225

2:00pm PDT

Local Market Leadership: Strategies for Building a Strong Community Presence
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Become a local leader by building meaningful connections with your community. This session will help you develop strategies to strengthen your brand’s presence and foster loyalty in your local market.

Learn how to engage with your community to build lasting relationships.
Discover strategies for supporting and collaborating with local businesses.
Position your venue as a cornerstone of your neighborhood.
Utilize local events and partnerships to enhance visibility.
Build a loyal customer base through authentic community involvement.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Corigliano

Michelle Corigliano

Executive Director, Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association
Michele has worked with independent restaurant and bar owners for over 8 years, growing the Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association from 35 members to over 400.Michele prioritizes relationships with all municipal and state agencies to advocate for SLARA’s members and lobbies for positive... Read More →
avatar for Adam Orman

Adam Orman

Co-Owner, L’Oca d’Oro & Bambino
Adam Orman’s culinary career spans over two decades, starting in front-of-house in New York and San Francisco and evolving into a seasoned restaurateur in Austin. His early work at Cafe at Rockefeller Center and collaborations with influential owners at An American Place, Jojo... Read More →
avatar for Kristen Rauch

Kristen Rauch

Executive Director, EatDenver
Kristen Rauch is the Executive Director of EatDenver, a nonprofit membership organization that connects and empowers the Denver region’s independent food and beverage community through education, collaboration, marketing, and advocacy. After receiving a dual bachelor’s degree... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #226/227

2:00pm PDT

The Impact of People-First Leadership on the Restaurant Business Model
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Explore how adopting a people-first approach can transform your restaurant's business model by fostering loyalty, increasing productivity, and enhancing customer experiences. This session dives into actionable strategies that link employee satisfaction with financial success, paving the way for long-term growth in the industry.
Participants will learn to:
  • Empower employees by creating a supportive environment that encourages ownership and excellence in their roles.
  • Build trust to form a foundation for team resilience and long-term business stability.
  • Understand the connection between employee well-being and customer experience, focusing on mutual benefits.
  • Gain insights on structuring training programs that increase competency, reduce turnover, and align with company values.
  • Learn to achieve profitability through people-centric practices that improve morale, retention, and revenue.
Speakers
avatar for Jim Taylor

Jim Taylor

Managing Partner/Founder, Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie/Benchmark Sixty Restaurant Services
Over the last 20+ years, Jim has helped to fuel the growth of a leading national restaurant brand, consulted with hundreds of other restaurants to navigate the ever changing restaurant industry, and is the managing partner at Le Crocodile by Rob Feenie, a french fine dining restaurant... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #221

2:00pm PDT

Under 30s Meet-up: Tomorrow's leaders, grow your network!
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Navigating your career in the bar and restaurant industry? You’re not alone. Join our Under 30s Meet-up, hosted by Art Sutley and featuring members of our distinguished Advisory Board, to connect with fellow young professionals and industry leaders who "get it". Whether you're figuring out your next move, looking to expand your network, or just want to swap experiences, this is your space to talk, learn, and grow in a casual environment.
Speakers
avatar for Arthur Sutley

Arthur Sutley

Owner, The Resident Boulevardier
Art Sutley, the hospitality expert known as The Resident Boulevardier, has been in the restaurant/bar space for over 20 years. As an educator in the industry, he speaks at many of the top restaurants and spirits trade shows globally.  In addition to this, he is traveling both locally... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Cocktail Clubhouse, 1st Floor Expo Hall

2:45pm PDT

Live Menu Read with Chef Brian Duffy
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:45pm - 4:30pm PDT
It’s time to talk about your menu. What are your offerings? How creative are you? Join Chef Duffy for an eye-opening session as he breaks down menus looking for opportunities to improve food offerings, kitchen operations, and guest experience.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Duffy

Brian Duffy

Owner, Duffified Experience Group
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:45pm - 4:30pm PDT
FBIC Stage, 2nd floor Expo Hall

10:30pm PDT

The Studio at Hakkasan - Open to All!
Wednesday March 26, 2025 10:30pm - 11:59pm PDT
Complimentary admission when you show your badge at the door 10:30pm-1:00am

Wednesday March 26, 2025 10:30pm - 11:59pm PDT
Hakkasan Nightclub, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino
 

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