Gabrielle Austen-Browne , event industry DEI expert , discusses how suppliers can help progress DEI

s the industry continues to progress on its diversity , equity and inclusion ( DEI ) journey , more focus is being shone on how DEI can and should be implemented , not just in the workplace , but also through event content and delivery .

But what about the suppliers we use to bring events to life ? Suppliers are often a forgotten DEI component , yet they can be an important piece of the puzzle .

F & B staff At events , the key aspects that attendees remember are the venue , content , activities and the selection of F & B available . Let ’ s look at caterers as an example . When it comes to F & B , we know that catering to all dietary requirements is a must . Whether they ’ re based on religious beliefs , allergies , intolerances or personal choice , as our knowledge expands , we are also starting to recognise that there are other diet and health requirements that should be taken into consideration for a menu to be truly inclusive . For example , including alcohol-free options , pregnant dietary choices and catering to climatarian diets ( a diet where the primary goal is to reverse climate change ).

“ Next time you attend an event , look at the staff serving you – is there a diversity gap further up the ranks ?”

Gabrielle Austen-Browne

Through the menus and suppliers we choose , there is a great opportunity for event organisers to demonstrate and contribute to DEI . There is also an overlooked chance to provide opportunities for more equitable outcomes , particularly for historically marginalised groups .

This can be through implementing DEI policies , such as management and leadership DEI training , through staffing choices and by developing the workforce that already exists .

What do I mean by providing equity in staffing ?

Next time you attend an event , look at the demographic of staff serving you . While front-line diversity may in fact be a strength for food service , why is there a gap further up the ranks ? Why are

these ethnic minority staff not being inspired and trained to move up the ranks to be managers or leaders ? All people , no matter the level within a business , are important contributors to how welcomed , comfortable , and valued teams and event attendees feel .

The role of suppliers As part of the DEI work I ’ ve been doing with venues , we have added a criteria for suppliers . For us to select them or add them to preferred suppliers lists , we request that they uphold the same values as the organisation when it comes to DEI . We also ask that they are actively working towards creating a more inclusive service and more equitable workforces .

How can suppliers achieve this ? Appropriate training is a great start , but it should be combined effectively with a more equitable talent process , one that is driven by metrics , tracks progress and holds organisations accountable for actions and outcomes . Suppliers can also contribute by creating / supporting mentorship or sponsorship programmes for employees to build a sustainable career .

We mustn ’ t underestimate that inclusive F & B experiences , as well as diverse staff at all levels of the business , are opportunities to invite people to learn , celebrate and honour diversity , and to provide equity and create a sense of belonging for all staff and event attendees . CN