Welcome to the The Caterer's Acorn Awards

The Acorn Awards – known as The Caterer’s 30 under 30 – recognises the brightest prospects in the hospitality industry.

Run in association with our headline sponsor CH&CO, the awards recognise the flair and passion of the most talented individuals in hospitality.

Since its inception in 1986, we have awarded this coveted prize to well over 1,000 rising stars, with many going on to prestigious careers in the industry.

Past winners represent every sector of the hospitality industry and include the likes of Marco Pierre White, Tommy Banks, Zoe Jenkins, Jason Atherton and the current Hotelier of the Year Gareth Banner.

Acorns are nominated by their peers for making an impression and inspiring others in their sector.

The Caterer receives hundreds of nominations every year which are carefully considered by our respected panel of judges to choose the 30 most deserving Acorns.

The 30 winners are then invited to a winners’ weekend to celebrate their achievements with their fellow Acorns and nominators.

This year's event will be held at the Dakota Hotel Manchester on 1 and 2 June 2025.

WHY ENTER THE ACORN AWARDS?

INDUSTRY RECOGNITION

Acorn Award winners will receive validation on their achievements from industry experts who are passionate about recognising young talent.

A SPRINGBOARD TO CAREER SUCCESS

The prestigious award is widely recognised throughout the industry, and adding it to a CV has proven to super-charge careers. In fact, many Acorns have gone on to win a coveted Catey award.

MEMBERSHIP TO A VERY EXCLUSIVE CLUB

Once an Acorn, always an Acorn. Winners become part of an exclusive group of individuals in the hospitality industry.

A MEMORABLE WINNERS' WEEKEND

Past winners talk fondly of their winners weekend at one of the UK’s top hotels. With fun activities and networking followed by a formal lunch and prize ceremony with their nominators, it’s always a weekend to remember.

Winners' Testimonials