On September 22, the Federación Empresarial de Hostelería Valencia held the sixth edition of MIRADAS, an event that has become a key space for reflecting on the present and future of the hospitality sector.
Our Business Development Director, Corinna Heilmann, participated in the roundtable “Smart Decisions for Changing Times,” alongside industry leaders such as Héctor Sánchez (Manager of the Bizkaia Hospitality Association), Nuria Sanz (President Asociación de Restaurantes de Valencia), and Naji Sabeh (CEO of Hosteltáctil and Head of Loomis Pay Spain).
During the session, Corinna shared Gourmet Catering & Eventos’ vision of the role that active listening, collaboration, and innovation play as drivers of transformation in hospitality and events.
“Our clients guide us. Listening to their needs and learning from constant interaction with the sector allows us to anticipate trends and create memorable experiences. Collaboration is key to developing scalable projects, including partnerships with related sectors,” Heilmann emphasized.
Five Innovation Pillars at Gourmet Catering & Eventos
In a constantly changing environment, Gourmet Catering & Eventos focuses on five development pillars that represent our roadmap for finding “smart solutions for changing times:
Gastronomic Innovation
With one of the largest R&D&I culinary departments in the Valencian Community and a 1,600 m² production center powered 100% by renewable energy, we have launched initiatives such as MagNuS, the creation of impact menus endorsed by the Chefs’ Manifesto, and innovative gastronomic experiences like FTALKS 2024.
Sustainability Innovation
Our 360º sustainability strategy, aligned with the UN SDGs of the 2030 Agenda, aims for triple positive impact: environmental, social, and economic. In collaboration with the University of Valencia and Dr. José Miguel Soriano, we research new ways to improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and generate employment opportunities in the sector.
Waste Control Innovation
Since 2023, together with Naria, we have implemented a pioneering blockchain-based system to ensure traceability of surplus food donations. Thanks to this tool, we have donated over 9,800 kilograms of food—equivalent to 23,500 meals—and saved 24,700 kilograms of CO₂.
Social Innovation
Through our partnership with La Mare Que Va de Asindown, we have developed a labor inclusion model for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities. With over 28 hires for front-of-house and kitchen roles, 60 inclusive events, and a team training as inclusion ambassadors, this project demonstrates how events can become powerful tools for social change.
Technological Innovation in Staff Management
With the full digitalization of HR, we pursue more agile, transparent, and efficient processes. People Analytics enables strategic data-driven decisions, supporting continuous improvement and automation.
A Sector That Listens, Collaborates, and Innovates
Our participation in MIRADAS 2025 reinforces Gourmet Catering & Eventos commitment to a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive hospitality industry. In changing times, we believe the best response is always to listen, collaborate, and build together.
