Co-founded by Danny Pecorelli FIH, Managing Director at Exclusive Collection, and hosted by James B. Clarke FIH, General Manager at London Hilton on Park Lane, the Back to the Floor event saw more than 100 senior hospitality leaders, including the Institute’s CEO, Robert Richardson FIH, return to service for one evening.
Around 600 guests were served by industry leaders who competed to raise the most in tips, with all funds going directly to support hospitality workers in times of crisis.
Service throughout the three-course meal was accompanied by friendly competition, with participants using a range of approaches to engage guests and encourage donations.
Tej Walia FIH, Managing Director at Foxhills Club & Resort, was named top fundraiser of the evening, raising £20,269 in tips.
Since its launch in 2013 with 20 participants and 160 guests, Back to the Floor has grown into a well-established event in the hospitality calendar. This year’s sold-out event featured senior figures from across the sector, including Franck Arnold FIH, Managing Director and Regional Vice-President of The Savoy, Sally Beck FIH, General Manager of Royal Lancaster, Robin Hutson, Chief Executive of Lime Wood Group and Simon Numphud FIH, Managing Director at AA Media.
The 2026 event also marked a significant milestone, with total funds raised across all Back to the Floor events exceeding £1 million, making it Hospitality Action’s most successful fundraising initiative to date.
Mark Lewis FIH, Chief Executive at Hospitality Action, said: “Sometimes I have to pinch myself because when I look around at extraordinary events like this, I am in total awe of the willingness of so many people coming together for the greater good. Hospitality is an industry that so many people love being part of, but for others, it can also present real challenges. It is for those colleagues that Hospitality Action exists, and we will continue to provide the support, care and assistance they need when times get tough.”
Danny Pecorelli FIH added, “Back to the Floor was an extraordinary night and one I’ll remember for a long time. I’m hugely grateful to every waiter, sommelier, sponsor, donor and guest who helped raise such an incredible amount. The generosity and energy in the room were remarkable, and the funds raised will make a real difference for many people.”
Be part of our well-respected network, get trusted advice and take a positive approach to your learning and development.
Your business card may take a moment to be generated. You can save your business card by right clicking -> save image as, or holding down on the image on your phone.
