Michelin-starred Newcastle chef to headline Manchester trade show

Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) has revealed the first names of its speaker line-up for the upcoming March show, showcasing some of the biggest names in hospitality.

Returning to Manchester Central on March 10th-11th, NRB26 follows a record-breaking 2025 event that welcomed over 12,000 visitors and featured more than 350 exhibitors across food, drink, technology, and equipment.

Joining this year’s NRB Chef Live programme is Kenny Atkinson, one of the UK’s most respected chefs.

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With a career spanning nearly three decades, Atkinson is Chef Patron of Newcastle’s Michelin-starred House of Tides and Solstice by Kenny Atkinson and is the only chef to hold Michelin stars for two restaurants in the city.

Kenny will take to the live stage to share insight into his career and current projects, including the opening of his new restaurant in London and the continued success of his Newcastle restaurants.

The NRB Keynote Theatre will host senior leaders from some of the UK’s most recognisable hospitality brands, sharing their experiences of building businesses.

Also joining the line-up is Will Beckett, Co-Founder and CEO of Hawksmoor, who will share insights into building a nationally recognised restaurant group, and Laura Harper Hinton, Co-Founder and CEO of Caravan.

Chris Brazier, Group Event Director for NRB26, said: “We’re excited to share this first wave of speakers for NRB26, which reflects the calibre of talent and leadership within the hospitality industry right now.

“With more names still to come, this year’s programme is shaping up to offer honest insight, practical learning and inspiration for operators navigating an evolving landscape.”

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