This year’s theme, “Serving Up Resilience,” highlights the evolving challenges within the industry and the practical strategies institutions can use to strengthen their operations.
The event will be hosted at University College Birmingham (UCB), offering an inspiring setting for learning, networking and discovering fresh approaches to catering and hospitality within education.
Full Members attend the conference free of charge (there are payment options available for dinner and overnight accommodation using invoice, credit card or for those of you who have them, Academy credits - please use the correct option when booking.)
What to expect
- Expert insights & thought leadership Industry speakers will share forward-thinking strategies, practical advice, and innovative solutions tailored to today’s catering landscape.
- Valuable networking opportunities The Conference includes an evening social at UCB’s Summer Row restaurant, giving attendees the chance to build relationships across institutions.
- A dynamic Study Tour (14–16 January) Following the Conference, delegates can explore Birmingham’s rich food culture through supplier visits, market tours, local dining experiences, and behind-the-scenes hospitality showcases.
Speaker lineup
Many of the speakers will deliver peer-to-peer presentations on their unique selling points as hospitality businesses and the activities that help them remain resilient to contract catering, often through collaboration with other university departments.
- Matthew Mealing and Andy Flowers - University of Salford
- Paula Martindale & team - University of Chester
- Rachel Gibson & the Root to Tip team - Kings College London
- Graham Patterson & Gordon Hodge - University of Strathclyde
Other speakers:
- Mark Kassapian - Litmus delivering insights from the Business Models Research
- Mark Ormrod MBE - Former Royal Marines Commando
Who should attend
The event is open to all staff from TUCO member institutions, not just catering teams. Full Members benefit from complimentary Conference attendance, with optional dinner and accommodation add-ons. Study Tour places are available as an additional package.
Whether you're seeking fresh thinking, professional development or the chance to connect with colleagues from across the sector, the TUCO Winter Conference 2026 promises to inspire and energise delegates for the year ahead.
Bookings are now open, with a deadline of 5 January 2026.
