Speaker Q&A (2018): Mark McCulloch, WE ARE Spectacular
Another popular returning speaker is Mark McCulloch, founder & CEO of WE ARE Spectacular. He’s hosting two sessions this year, including the first ever live recording of the hugely popular Spectacular Marketing Podcast at the show (22 Sept); featuring Charlotte Adams (Krispy Kreme), Romy Miller (GAIL’s Bakery’s), and Sophie Barton (SOHO Coffee Co).
What food to go operator do you particularly admire and why?
Pret — always. For every single thing they do (people, product, planet, profit, process, promotion).
What do you feel is the key for operators to successfully compete against their competitors?
Have a strong brand, purpose and relevant offer, which your customers will love. Don’t grow too fast and don’t cut costs.
What do you see as key trends for food-to-go in the coming year?
Employee engagement. Focus on doing what you do well. More brand casualties
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Unlocking business potential for clients in the brand, offer, marketing and people.
And the most challenging?
Most of the work is in London. Constant scope creep and budget reduction.
How important is lunch! to the food to go sector?
Very — it is one of the staple shows that are a must attend.
Describe the lunch! trade show in 3 words.
Fun focused (in)formative
Who or what inspires you to be even better?
The potential for selling the big issue if it all goes wrong and I never ever want to work for a boss ever again.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Don’t let anyone stand in your way of doing your job.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know.
I got married in Vegas by Elvis.
See Mark at lunch! 2018
The Secrets of Brand Success: 1.45pm in Keynote Theatre 1 on Thursday 20 September.
The Food-to-Go Marketers Panel – A Spectacular Marketing Podcast Live: 1.45pm in Keynote Theatre 1 on Friday 21 September.
