2026 Davidson Hospitality Group Food & Beverage Conference

We recently gathered at Le Meriden Dania Beach at Fort Lauderdale Airport for the 2026 Davidson Food & Beverage conference: two unforgettable days of connection, inspiration, and celebration. Featuring general sessions, tailored breakout sessions, and dynamic events, attendees “traveled the world” through the lens of celebrating food & beverage with culture and storytelling that continues to shape the hospitality industry.

The 90 participants were comprised of Food & Beverage Directors, Executive Chefs, Banquet, Catering & Event Leaders, and corporate leadership. Conference highlights included:

• Greg Griffie, SVP, F&B Operations for Davidson Restaurant Group (otherwise jokingly known as SVP of Fruits & Vegetables), enthusiastically took two pies in the face after we fundraised $5,000, all in support of Give Kids The World Village.
• SVP of People & Culture Linda Schumann presented a State of the HR union, detailing areas of opportunity to empower and engage team members at every level.
• Chief Operating Officer Jason Reader shared companywide operational goals and standout performance highlights.
• Speakers from Cvent dispensed valuable insights into what meeting planners are looking for in today’s event landscape and highlighted how sales + F&B can collaborate more effectively.
• Senior Director of Food & Beverage Jenny Carr shared generational dining trends and how we can tailor unique experiences to each demographic effectively. She also shared 10 food flavors to know in 2027 and beyond, from drinkable corn to whipped feta.
• Chief Executive Officer & President Thom Geshay provided a snapshot of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) strategic priorities and progress as Chair of the Board of Directors, in addition to our company’s future outlook and vision.
• Jen Collins, Co-Founder and President of Procure Impact, outlined its mission behind responsible sourcing and how more properties can get involved in expanding representation to create lasting social impact in our communities.
• We hosted various intimate breakout sessions designed to ultimately drive food and beverage revenue and optimize every square foot of restaurant, bar, and event space.

Through the duration of the event, we were privileged to spend time with our valued suppliers and learn more about their products, solutions, and services to help us create even more value. We appreciate your support so much!

Thank you to everyone for joining and we can’t wait to see everyone in 2028.