Following extensive research among members of the International Association of Conference Centres, IACC recently released its Top 10 Conference Foods Trends for 2015:
1. Local is Everything. The importance of adding a local feel to meetings has been identified as a major trend as attendees want to experience as much as they can about the area they are going to for their meeting or event.
2. Network your Heart Out. Small plates of food items, continuously served in a reception format, add a nice break to an extended event. Another popular choice is to hold a more substantial networking-friendly dining reception midway through your event as it provides a great way for guests to meet up in a causal environment and build relationships while enjoying great food and beverage.
3. Small is the New Big! Bite-size desserts have overtaken larger portions in popularity. Conference delegates are turning their backs on the big slice of cake and head for the easy-to-handle signature bite-size desert station. Warm house-made donuts, chocolate truffles, French macaroons, mini cupcakes and house-made cookies are at the top of the list for planners.
4. In with Flavor, Out with Fats! Healthy choices don’t need to resemble rabbit food, and conference chefs are working with exciting new ingredients, including whole grains, protein alternatives (quinoa, amaranth, tofu, beans), green vegetables (kales, spinach) and low-fat and low-sugar foods.
5. Making, and Breaking, Bread Together. Nothing brings the team together better than food, and having the opportunity to cook with somebody can create a whole new appreciation for them, and possibly show off a hidden talent not seen in a traditional office environment or company outing.
6. Contrasting Environments. Utilizing outside space to create a change in scenery and a casual dining experience will revitalize attendees, especially during multi-day meetings and events.
7. Finale, NOT Gala. Make sure the last night of your event has all the components to create a dynamic environment and brings people together to celebrate the end of a great conference. Be creative and choose your room seating layout and dining style to deliver that “finale.”
8. That’s Theater, Darling! Adding an interactive chef station can highlight the menu with a presentation of freshly prepared items (panini, clubhouse or slider); remember to ask for gluten-free options.
9. Go Micro for Max Effect. With the explosion in microbreweries offering brews that appeal to all tastes, ask your conference planner if they can make pre-dinner drinks a local affair.
10. Infused Tea Cocktails. The English drink a lot of it and now the world has caught on to the latest trend, infused tea cocktails. Combine this with trend 9 and you can have a double brew at your next reception.
IACC currently has 400 conference center members across 21 countries.