LIFI25: Who picks up the tab for a hospitable city?
16 Oct 2025
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Tickets£10.00
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VenueCourtyard
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Running time90 mins
From boutique bars to international hotel chains, towns and cities worldwide champion hospitality and tourism. But are we truly supporting the sector?
Despite UK hospitality employing 3.5m and contributing £140bn to the economy, it faces staggering rising costs and national insurance hikes for starters. Do big events rejuvenate a city or just stretch its capacity, and how can we better help the industry?
Join our panel for a lively 360° debate – from finding ways to boost vibrancy and attract inward investment to implementing looming taxes and tackling the backlash of overtourism.
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Priority booking is available for users with a Playhouse Pass, Priority Access, Supporters’ Club or Under 30s membership from 19 Jun 25 at 1pm. General booking will open on 24 Jun 25 at 10:30am.
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Who's who?
Peg Alexander
Host
Andrew Cooper
Speaker
Zoe Hands
Speaker
Fred Sirieix
Speaker
BIOGRAPHIES
Peg Alexander is an award-winning broadcaster and journalist. Known for hosting podcasts, TV, and radio shows, Peg is a regular on Jeremy Vine On 5.
A former politician, charity CEO, and public-policy professional, Peg has travelled
extensively, and her first travel-inspired memoir is due out this year.
With an extensive background in business, retail, and ESG, Andrew Cooper is Chief
Executive of LeedsBID and Senior Fellow at the Institute of Place Management.
Andrew Cooper is Chief Executive of LeedsBID, which invests £18m in transformative
city centre plans. With extensive business, retail, and ESG expertise, Andrew has held a
variety of roles in Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Boots PLC. Andrew is Chair of LIFI & is a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Place Management.
Zoe Hands is the award-winning National Account Manager for Marriott International. With 30+ years in hospitality, Zoe passionately advocates for industry diversity and social responsibility.
Zoe Hands is the award-winning National Account Manager for Marriott International. After 30+ years in hospitality, her experience covers everything from food and beverage to housekeeping and events. Zoe is a Focus4Hope trustee, a Marriott UK Provinces Business Council supporter, and an advocate for diversity and social responsibility.
Fred Sirieix is a renowned French maître d’hôtel, author, and television personality, best known for his role on the hit Channel 4 series First Dates. From Olympics 2024 Paris host to big brand ambassador, Fred’s humour and passion for food and culture have made him a cherished international media figure.
