There’s something really exciting happening in Cheshire East right now, and I’m buzzing to be part of it. After months of planning, chatting, and pulling the right people together, we’re officially relaunching the Cheshire East Hospitality Association, and trust me, it’s about time.
As a board member of the Liverpool Hospitality Association and Chair of the Chester Hospitality Association, I’ve seen firsthand just how vital these organisations are in supporting local businesses and celebrating the incredible people who power our industry.
This isn’t just a tick-box project. It’s something we genuinely believe in. Cheshire East’s hospitality scene is bursting with brilliant people, unique venues, and some of the most passionate teams you’ll ever meet, but up until now, we’ve all been doing our own thing.
The aim of this association is to bring us together. To create a trusted space where hotel owners, bar managers, chefs, suppliers, attractions and tourism leaders can connect, share, and grow.
With quarterly meetings starting this September, we’ll be able to bring updates straight from the council, spotlight upcoming opportunities, discuss real challenges, and come up with solutions – together.
We want every business, big or small, to feel seen and supported. Whether you’re new to the sector or have been in it for decades, this is for you.
We’ve all seen the numbers, hospitality is one of the biggest economic drivers in Cheshire East, with a visitor economy worth over £1 billion and more than 10,000 people working across the sector.
But behind those stats are real people, the early risers, the late finishers, the problem solvers, the memory makers and they deserve to be recognised.
Which brings me to something I’m especially proud of… the first-ever Cheshire East Hospitality People Awards, happening this October at the stunning Crewe Hall Hotel. This will be a night to celebrate the unsung heroes of our industry, the ones who smile through the chaos, keep guests happy, and make Cheshire East venues shine.
It’s about shining a light on those individuals who make a real difference, often without even realising it.
We all know it’s not been an easy few years. Recruitment is tough, costs are rising, and the pace can feel relentless.
But that’s why now is the time to come together. We’re stronger when we support each other, when we have people in the room who get it, who’ve been there, and who want to move forward together.
And with a board made up of people with direct links to Cheshire East Council, we’re making sure Cheshire East members are not just heard, but represented where it matters.
And while we’re on the topic of celebrating hospitality, let’s not forget DevaFest, coming up from 7th–10th August at the beautiful Cholmondeley Castle. This festival is expected to bring over £2 million into the local economy – from hotel stays and restaurant bookings to travel, shopping and everything in between.
These kinds of events are a game-changer for Cheshire East, and they show what’s possible when we support local. So please, grab your tickets here, turn up, and show your support for one of the most exciting weekends of the year.
This is just the beginning. I honestly can’t wait to see what we build together.
Whether you want to attend the first meeting in September, nominate someone for the awards, or just get to know more about what we’re doing – get in touch with Cheshire East Hospitality Association at [email protected].
There’s so much potential in this region, and now we’ve got the platform to unlock it.
Hospitality in Cheshire East is already special, now it’s time to show everyone just how powerful they are when they stand together
f you love the idea of hospitality professionals coming together to share ideas, tackle challenges, and celebrate the industry, then don’t miss our next TAOH event on October 9th, grab your tickets now!
