Hospitality at the Heart of Westminster: Reflections on the 2026 Parliamentary Reception

On January 26th, I had the distinct honor of attending the Institute of Hospitality’s parliamentary reception at the House of Commons. Hosted by Peter Bedford MP, the event was more than just a gathering in a historic setting; it was a vital recognition of an industry that serves as the backbone of the UK economy and community life.

A Unified Voice for a Diverse Industry

Walking through Westminster Hall and the Central Lobby, one is always reminded of the weight of policy and history. However, the energy inside the reception was focused firmly on the future. What made this event particularly impactful was its inclusivity.

Hospitality is often synonymous with hotels and high-end restaurants, but the conversations at the reception spanned the full, vibrant spectrum of our sector:

• The High Street: Pubs and restaurants navigating new economic landscapes.

• Public Sector Excellence: The essential work within education catering.

• Service & Duty: The dedicated hospitality teams within our Armed Forces.

Advocacy in Action

The presence of Peter Bedford MP and other policymakers provided a crucial platform to discuss the challenges and triumphs of our industry. We talked about talent retention, the evolution of service standards, and how we can continue to professionalise every corner of the sector through the work of the Institute of Hospitality.

For Nansen Green, this reinforces our commitment to supporting the people who make these experiences possible. Hospitality isn't just about "service"; it’s about the infrastructure of human connection, whether that’s a school lunch or a five-star stay.

Looking Ahead

I left Westminster feeling incredibly inspired by the collective passion of my peers. The road ahead for UK hospitality requires collaboration and seeing that dialogue happen at the highest level of government is a massive step in the right direction.