BHA to launch one-off ITN news programme dedicated to hospitality

The British Hospitality Association (BHA) is to launch a one-off news programme dedicated to the hospitality industry, in association with broadcaster ITN.

Presented by broadcaster Natasha Kaplinsky at ITN's studios, the programme will be screened for the first time at the British Hospitality & Tourism Summit, taking place on 5 June at the Novotel London West hotel. The programme will also be viewable on both the BHA and ITN websites.

It will aim to improve understanding of issues affecting the growth and profit of the industry, including legal, regulatory and financial concerns. It will also help celebrate the sector's creation of jobs and its contribution to the economy.

Themes covered will include responsible hospitality practices, issues facing young people in the industry, and the UK market's competitiveness.

Although initially a one-off, it is hoped that the partnership may produce one more programme.

Simon Shelley, UK director of programming for ITN, will oversee the editorial content of the show. He said: "We're delighted to be partnering with the BHA and are excited to bring to life the incredible success stories of individuals who have risen in the sector."

Ufi Ibrahim (pictured), chief executive of the BHA, said: "We're delighted that ITN has recognised the important contribution our industry makes to the UK economy and look forward to creating an inspiring new programme, which will showcase our work."

She added that the programme would aim to inspire future generations in the hospitality industry, in which 44% of employees are aged under 30, and which, she said, accounted for one third of all new jobs created between 2010 and 2012.

The British Hospitality Association aims to champion the views and issues affecting people in the hotel, restaurant, tourism and catering industries.

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