Inside the Growth of America’s Top Restaurant Trade Shows with Paul Pedrow of Restaurant Events LLC
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How do you blend passion and business in the food industry? Paul Pedrow has mastered this combination through his remarkable journey from a high school pizza shop employee to a key executive at Restaurant Events LLC, where he now leads major industry trade shows that bring together the entire hospitality ecosystem.
The magic of Paul's approach stems from understanding that food's fundamental power lies in connection. During his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, he experienced how a simple cafeteria where staff and players shared $4 meals created community within a professional sports organization. That same philosophy now informs how he structures trade shows – creating spaces where face-to-face interactions spark innovation, education, and growth.
What truly distinguishes Paul's events is their perfect regional balance. As he explains, "Food ultimately is a regional business, just in the nature of freshness." By creating shows sized appropriately for their markets, he ensures meaningful connections happen between suppliers, chefs, and operators. This strategy has paid off, with the Pizza Tomorrow Summit recently recognized as the fastest-growing food show in the country.
The pandemic presented extraordinary challenges, but Paul's team overcame them by putting relationships first. From comping booths for vendors in crisis to navigating the complex logistics of convention centers, their commitment to going "the extra mile" has established Restaurant Events LLC as a trusted industry partner.
For culinary professionals considering attending these events, Paul highlights three key benefits: networking with industry veterans, education through competitions and demonstrat
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Thank you for listening to the Walk-In Talk Podcast, hosted by Carl Fiadini and Company. Our show not only explores the exciting and chaotic world of the restaurant business and amazing eateries but also advocates for mental health awareness in the food industry.
Our podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the industry. Don't miss out on upcoming episodes where we'll continue to cook up thought-provoking discussions on important topics, including mental health awareness.
Be sure to visit our website for more food industry-related content, including our very own TV show called Restaurant Recipes where we feature Chefs cooking up their dishes and also The Dirty Dash Cocktail Hour; the focus is mixology and amazing drinks!
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Chapters
1. Passion and Business in Food (00:00:00)
2. Chef Kevin's Barbecue Feast (00:07:56)
3. Paul's Journey from Eagles to Events (00:12:38)
4. Building Trade Show Excellence (00:23:36)
5. Overcoming Industry Challenges (00:32:00)
6. Partnership and Future Plans (00:40:57)
154 episodes