Two international hospitality experts are amongst the keynote speakers confirmed for the Hospitality New Zealand Conference and Trade Show, HNZ26.

Preston Lee

Rotorua will welcome hospitality operators, leaders, and innovators from across the motu to HNZ26, held on 23-24 June at the Energy Events Centre.

Amongst the first speakers confirmed are Preston Lee, a US hospitality performance strategist; and Atilla Bús, an internationally-renowned flavour researcher, bartender and author.

Preston Lee is an entrepreneur and hospitality expert who founded The 30% Rule in 2023 to help independent restaurants scale by focusing on culture, systems, training and leadership development.

Atilla Bús works at the intersection of contemporary mixology, sensory design, and storytelling. With more than a decade of international experience, Atilla’s focus “is not on alcohol content, but on flavour as an emotional and cultural medium.”

Atilla Bús

Atilla has collaborated with bars, brands, and creative communities across Europe, Asia and Australia, gradually shifting his attention toward alcohol-free and low-ABV drinks.

At HNZ26, Atilla will speak about emerging trends in flavour-driven no- and low-ABV beverages, sustainability-led design, and shifting consumer expectations. He’ll also host a masterclass exploring flavour design, structure, and technique that operators can directly apply in their businesses.

Kristy Phillips, Hospitality NZ’s Chief Executive, says having Preston and Atilla at HNZ26 sets the tone for what will be a great programme of inspiring speakers and informative sessions.

“The theme for HNZ26 is all about ‘manaakitanga (hospitality) in motion’, and Preston and Atilla are great examples of this. They’re both at the top of their game in their respective fields in hospitality. We can’t wait to welcome them to Rotorua to share their expertise at HNZ26.”

Further announcements on the HNZ26 programme will be made in the lead up to the event.

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