I'm a regular commentator on the hospitality and restaurant industry, for podcasts, press, broadcast and panels. Twenty-five years operating, advising and investing in the sector means I can speak to what's actually happening on the ground, not just what the headline says. Quick to respond, comfortable on deadline and happy to go on the record.
These are the areas where I can add something beyond the obvious. If your story sits nearby, it's still worth asking.
On the wave of American chains crossing the Atlantic, and what they are betting the UK market wants.
On how Australian cafe culture reshaped the British breakfast, and whether the fry-up can hold its ground.
On the squeeze facing operators as energy, wages and supply costs climb together.
Alongside commentary, I've been writing about this industry for more than two decades. First published at eighteen, a columnist by twenty-one and still at it. That means I understand what an editor needs and can file to a brief as readily as give a quote.
Plus a number of lifestyle and trade magazines. Available for commissioned pieces, columns and opinion.
Usually within a few hours, often faster. Tell me your deadline and I'll tell you straight whether I can make it.
Written quotes, phone, video call or in studio. Comfortable live and on the record, in English.
Bio, headshots and job title available on request. Founding Partner at Think Hospitality.
Send over the angle and your deadline. If I'm the right person I'll come straight back, and if I'm not I'll usually know who is.
james.hacon@thinkhospitality.co.uk
Hospitality trends and futures
Where the sector is heading and why, separating genuine structural change from the trend cycle.
Restaurant and hotel brands
Openings, expansion, repositioning and the brands getting it right or wrong, and why.
Investment and deals
What investors are looking for, how deals are structured and what a valuation actually rests on.
Placemaking and development
Mixed use schemes, destinations and how hospitality shapes whether a place works.
Global markets
The Gulf, Europe, Asia Pacific and beyond, from more than 20 countries of work a year.
AI and technology
What automation and AI genuinely change in hospitality, and where the hype outruns reality.