The 47th Lakes Hospitality Trade Show is just days away and has the perfect recipe to give visitors and exhibitors an invaluable experience.

The annual celebration of the region’s hospitality industry is the perfect hub for local and national companies to showcase their businesses – and this year there’s a new Demonstration Theatre where industry experts will cook up a storm.

Among those showcasing her skills in the theatre will be chef patron and co-owner of the Black Bull in Sedbergh, Nina Matsunaga (12pm both days). Cooking live, Nina will demonstrate how seasonality and locality are key when it comes to serving sustainable food in the region’s kitchens.

The long-running show is a unique opportunity for firms to get all their potential suppliers together under one roof and this year’s key message is finding innovative ways to help businesses become more sustainable.

The free-to-attend event takes place at the J36 Rural Auction Centre at Crooklands on February 28 and 29. 

Sarah Tasker, the show manager, said: There is a real buzz about the show which, on the exhibitor side, sold out weeks ago – showing how positively it's viewed within the industry. It showcases innovative technologies, talented local artisans and fresh ideas with over 150 exhibitors.

There are free masterclasses, live cooking demos, expert advice and vital industry networking opportunities. We may be the county’s longest running trade show but every year we develop and improve what is on offer.”

Leading experts will be on hand to showcase products and produce. There’ll be a total of 10 demonstrations including:

•    Eat Wild – with Louisa Clutterbuck, who aims to show why more people should be eating game meat as a sustainable option (2pm both days).
•    The Flavour Blaster Pro 2 – a demonstration of new bubble guns and dry ice machines to enhance a cocktail experience (1pm both days).
•    What Is Good Coffee? – with Brian Williams from Farrer’s Tea and Coffee Merchant (11am Wednesday).
•    Shed One Distillery – pairing botanical spirits with sweet and savoury treats (3pm Wednesday).
•    Shaking up non-alcoholic alternatives – with the Alcohol Free Drinks Company (11am Thursday).

“It’s a real privilege to have so many top demonstrations taking place at this year’s show,” said Sarah. “It makes this a 'must-see' event for all those involved in Cumbria’s vibrant hospitality sector.”

Last year’s show smashed attendance records, with close to 1,700 visitors attending over the two-day period and this year’s show promises to be bigger still.

“There were lots of new faces last year so it is clear we are now reaching a bigger audience than just Cumbria and the South Lakes," said Sarah. "We are looking to improve on that still further this year.”

Profits from the event are directed back into the wider hospitality industry. This year’s key sponsors include Freedom Hotspot, NPG Fire Safety and Porsche Centre South Lakes.