Bar & Restaurant Expo 2021

Vegas is known for its over-the-top entertainment and star-studded performances. Nothing is too big or too exaggerated for Vegas. This city provides the perfect backdrop for the Bar & Restaurant Expo (BRE). In the land of infinite possibilities, BRE permits innovators in the food and beverage space to exchange ideas, review new product designs, and discuss pioneering service methods.

Unlike other food and beverage expos, BRE gives equal importance to bar and restaurant operations as it does marketing and customer relations. 

We were invited to contribute to three panel discussions. Taneka was joined by Mia Mastroianni and Tim Angelillo on the panel discussing ‘2021 Beverage Trends to Know to Drive More Sales’. Johnny’s session, ‘Your Go To Strategy for Working with Social Media Influencers’ gave a few tips on adjusting your expectations and realistic compensation for influencer marketing. She shared the stage with Vance Henderson, David Rev Ciancio and Jabin Troth.

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Jointly, we hosted a session detailing the importance of marketing to minorities. The session was well attended and led to a spirited question-and-answer session.

True to form, the expo floor was sprinkled with celebrities from the music and entertainment world. We bumped into Jenny McCarthy, E-40, and 50 Cent. Each eagerly sharing their spirit with pride. Equally eager and proud were the producers of Ready-to-Drink (RTD) cocktails in a can, a new and fast growing beverage category. These low ABV, easy to drink carbonated beverages, have captivated consumers of all persuasions with no sign of slowing down.

MY FAVORITE THINGS

1. World of Tea – I love a properly brewed cup of tea. Due to the pandemic, the World of Tea Expo was hosted in conjunction with BRE. Tea purveyors from all over the world showcased their particular blend of tea. Most teas were served unsweetened; this allowed the drinker to taste the nuanced flavors of tea as opposed to sipping sugar water.  It was amazing. Add The World of Tea Expo to your beverage event calendar.
2. Live Demo Stage – Chefs and bartenders alike are invited on the main stage to show off their skill. Talent can share their story and culinary theory in an environment where they feel most comfortable–  in front of a stove. Bonus – audience attendees receive samples from the demonstration. There’s nothing like tasting a dish after you watched its preparation and learned its origin story.
3. Vegas is Unpredictable – Buckle up and prepare for the unknown. Be open to trying new things. Embrace the wild and the untamed spirit of Sin City. Take full advantage of the networking opportunities inside and outside of the expo. You never know who you will meet at the bar down the street from the expo.