FOOD MATTERS
Matt Hagen , executive chef , Manchester Central
IN MANCHESTER
Lynsey Aspinal , senior marketing executive at Manchester Central Convention Centre , tells Louisa Daley how the venue is on its way to becoming one of the UK ’ s most exciting culinary destinations
onference News recently had the pleasure of visiting Manchester and exploring everything the city has to offer . It has been at the heart of industry for centuries , was the birthplace of the suffragette movement and free press , and today is known for its sporting giants and venues and , of course , the Manchester Central Convention Centre . The diverse venue is key to the city ’ s success and has been hosting events since the 1980s . As our industry welcomes the return of in-person events , CN turns its attention to catering , an area that Manchester is no stranger to . Manchester has a plethora of restaurants and bars , some of which have opened during the pandemic , showing a constant growth and investment in the city , even during challenging times . To learn specifically about the venue ’ s own culinary offerings , Lynsey Aspinall , senior marketing executive at Manchester Central , provides us with some insight .
“ Manchester Central is continually improving its hospitality , offering event organisers and delegates an event catering experience to remember .”
Creating a culinary destination
Manchester ’ s food scene is becoming one of the UK ’ s most exciting culinary destinations , and the North West has won more awards than London for the first time in the National Restaurant Awards 2021 .
But it ’ s not just the restaurants that are impressing visitors . Manchester Central Convention Centre is continually improving its hospitality , offering event organisers and delegates an event catering experience to remember .
“ At Make Events we absolutely love working at Manchester Central . Of course it ’ s the most amazing backdrop for any kind of event , including parties , exhibitions and conferences , but it ’ s also a piece of Manchester ’ s heritage and heart . What I think stands Manchester Central apart is the catering . The tasting experience it provides for clients is the best I have experienced internationally , and the quality of the food on the night always exceeds expectations ,” beams Holly Moore , CEO and founder , Make Events and HM Events .
For example , in 2018 the Manchester venue underwent a £ 1m kitchen renovation . This