Kevin Penner - NEXT Foodservice + Hospitality Expo

Kevin Penner

Kevin is an energetic presenter, trainer and speaker. He has presented to thousands of customers across western Canada and understands the foodservice industry. He brings strong direct response marketing skills and years of experience helping businesses grow sales in practical and cost-effective ways. Kevin has held several roles at Sysco, he led business-resource consulting, managed foodservice consulting teams, handled regional marketing for Manitoba and the Northwest, and now serves as Regional Marketing Manager for the Prairies.

Monday 09/08, 10:30AM-11:20AM

Stronger Together | The Heart of Hospitality in Western Canada with Gord Clunie

Main Stage | Gord Clunie | Kevin Penner

Western Canada’s restaurant industry has faced more in five years than most industries see in a decade. Labour shortages, inflation, wildfires, and economic uncertainty have tested every operator. But this community hasn’t folded, it’s flexed.

The future belongs to those who show up for each other. Collaboration, loyalty, and the human touch still win over any algorithm. In this session, we’ll explore how building momentum from within and treating community as strategy can help Western hospitality thrive into 2026 and beyond.