Beyond The Counter Podcast
We believe the future of food is being shaped right now, in food halls and markets worldwide. But in this rapidly evolving industry, operators are often building the playbook as they go. That's why we're creating a space where the industry can share experiences and collectively accelerate it’s growth. By bringing together the brightest minds in the space, we're turning individual insights into shared success.
Through honest, behind-the-counter conversations, our podcast explores what makes this sector special. We share the stories, insights, and ideas that are shaping the future of food halls and mar, creating value for operators, traders, and customers alike.
Beyond The Counter Podcast
02: Matt Bigland, Founder & CEO of Blend Family - Building community-led Food Halls and letting authenticity shine
Welcome to Beyond the Counter - the UK's first podcast and content series dedicated to the Food Halls & Markets. Sign up for free to our monthly articles and annual Food Hall data report: https://forms.contacta.io/68e54cbaf8643266cccaf0aa.html
Joining us for Episode 2 is Matt Bigland, Founder & CEO of Blend Family - the folks behind Cutlery Works and Cambridge Street Collective (voted UK's Best Food Hall in 2024) in Sheffield and the recently opened Tower Bridge Collective in London.
Here's a sneak peek of what we cover in the chat:
Culture Over Classics: moving beyond the "safer options" to build a diverse and authentic food scene that showcases their traders' genuine culture and family recipes.
The Transformational Play: why they believe food halls need to be transformational, not transactional. They focus on curating a unique schedule of events and family-focused fun (ever heard of a kids' rave?).
Doing Good is Good Business: the story behind the Blend Culinary Foundation and how simple concepts like their 'Cocktail for Good' are having a tangible impact on local charities and food banks.
Growth on Their Own Terms: Discover the hands-on, entrepreneurial approach that Blend Family says has allowed them to grow without taking VC investment, keeping control and the soul of their business.
Give it a listen and a review and if you like it let us know what you think!
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Who are me&u and why do you care about Food Halls & markets?
We're me&u - the leading provider of mobile ordering in hospitality venues across the UK, Australia and the US. We believe the future of food is being shaped right now, in food halls and markets worldwide. But in this rapidly evolving industry, operators are often building the playbook as they go. That's why we're creating a space where the industry can share experiences and collectively accelerate it’s growth. By bringing together the brightest minds in the space, we're turning individual insights into shared success by going Beyond the Counter.