2021 Acorn Awards: just two weeks left to nominate

There are only three criteria to nominate someone for an Acorn Award: they must work in the hospitality industry; be under the age of 30 on 13 June 2021; and be available for the winners' weekend, which will take place at South Lodge hotel in Horsham, West Sussex, on 18 and 19 July 2021.

Lisa Jenkins, managing editor of The Caterer, explained: "What defines an Acorn winner is a generosity of spirit and a can-do attitude, as well as their ability to look beyond the day-to-day challenges. Past winners have demonstrated tenacity, passion and ambition. This year our judges will be looking for Acorns who can display empathy, adaptability and perseverance.

"The Acorn Awards aim to represent the great diversity of our industry. In 2020, of our 30 winners, 14 were female – an increase from 11 in 2019 and nine in 2018. But the industry can and must do better when it comes to acknowledging and nurturing the talent of young women, people of colour, people with disabilities and the LGBTQ+ community."

Allister Richards, chief operating officer at CH&Co, said: "We're very proud to continue our partnership with The Caterer as headline sponsor of the Acorn Awards. There's no getting away from the fact that it's been a difficult year for hospitality, but as our industry has shown, time and time again, tough times generate incredible examples of resilience, energy and commitment from our people, from the frontline to the board room.

"It's never been more important to nurture these exceptional qualities and provide the right support and development opportunities for all. This will help fuel our industry's bounce-back and create a strong legacy in the next generation of inclusive, inspiring and agile leaders. The Acorn Awards embodies this and celebrates young, emerging talent across the diverse roles and careers hospitality offers. I know times are tough, but I encourage all my fellow leaders to recognise and nominate their rising stars. It's a worthwhile investment and I can't wait to be inspired by this year's entries. Good luck to everyone."

Jonathan Dixon, vice-president at Arla Pro, the supporting sponsor for the 2021 Acorn Awards, added: "We're delighted to be sponsoring the Acorn Awards for the first time this year, after what has been a turbulent period for hospitality. Now, more than ever, we believe it's important to shine a spotlight on the people who make our industry what it is and whose resilience, fight and positivity will ensure that we bounce back stronger than ever.

"I look forward to seeing how this year's programme unfolds and to meeting the future leaders of UK hospitality once the finalists are unveiled this summer."

Click here to nominate someone for a 2021 Acorn Award.