Changes in the RLC’s content and a few tweaks in the format should help veteran show-goers get the most out of their visit as well. Here are 8 tips to guarantee a successful RLC.
1. Get to Technomic’s industry update early. At most conferences, a breakout might have a few dozen people. Technomic’s annual presentation typically draws in excess of 600. Consistently one of the RLC’s most popular sessions, the Innovation Forum provides an overview of the dynamics reshaping competition. This year’s theme: New Game, New Rules.
2. If your hand doesn’t hurt from meeting people, you’re not networking enough. Despite the size of the RLC, it still provides an unparalleled opportunity to meet colleagues and share ideas on common challenges and opportunities. Don’t be bashful about introducing yourself to anyone and everyone, supplier or operator.
3. Keep an eye on the show’s Twitter feed. With concurrent sessions, you can’t be everywhere. But you can take away some pearls, even if you’re far from the breakout room, by watching the running posts on Twitter, #RLC2014. You’ll also see questions for speakers from executives who weren’t lucky enough to attend the conference. Our impressions typically run far into the millions.
4. Don’t panic if you miss a gem offered from the stage. Full coverage of the conference will be provided via the June issue of Restaurant Business and a special May post-show edition of this e-newsletter. Subscribe to the newsletter or the magazine to receive RLC updates.
5. Use your phone, not necessarily to make calls, but to arrange your schedule via our new app. Smartphone users can download for free here.
6. If you run out of juice, we have smartphone and tablet chargers available for loan. Visit the CARRE desk in Culturekeepers Hall West.
7. Be mindful of security requirements. Hosting a past U.S. president imposes a host of security requirements. You’ll need a license to prove your identity when checking into the conference, and you won’t be admitted to sessions, President Bill Clinton’s in particular, without your conference badge.
8. Restaurant choices abound in the malls that are just a short walk or cab ride from the host hotel. You can also scout such concepts as P.F. Chang’s True Food Kitchen and the retail-shop version of Starbucks’ Teavana brand. Find more competitive shopping and dining options here.
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