Dusted were in Wales last month, assisting Harrison Catering with their ISBA (Independent School’s Bursars Association) conference stand.
Spanning two days, this annual event is an opportunity for catering companies such as Harrison, and other services relevant to the independent schools sector, to exhibit their company and network with clients, prospects and competitors.
Last year, Harrison raised the standard by recreating a ‘market stall’ as their stand, complete with boxes full of fresh vegetables, rustic backdrops and homemade giveaways.
This year they wanted to go even further, and recreate the dining rooms that feature in their schools. Day one was a reminiscent of a traditional school hall, with paneled walls, long tables and benches, an honours board and old master portraits that aren’t quite as they seem at first glance.
In complete contrast, day two was a ‘cafe culture’ sixth form common room, with a rapidly emptying food counter, students playing pool and cafe tables and chairs. Both were representations of school sites that Harrison currently operate in, showing the diversity and flexibility of their service offering in that particular sector.
Probably the most complex stand at the exhibition, with two false walls to encompass four flat-screen televisions, two sets of wall visuals, furniture and different giveaways on both days, the Harrison Catering stand caused quite a stir amongst those who visited it.
News of their piccalilli pots and cookie dough mix free gifts, spread amongst the delegates and exhibitors alike, and the videos incorporated into the walls on both days were a big talking point.
Watch this space next year for something even bigger and better.