NACE Changes Name to National Association for Catering and Events

NACE, formerly the National Association of Catering Executives, has changed its name to National Association for Catering and Events. The revised name is due to an emerging industry trend where catering and event professionals must be trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of the industry. This includes event planning, design and execution.

“Our industry today is made of people who are trained and experienced not only in helping clients select a menu, but in choosing a venue, creating an environment and setting the stage for a memorable event that exceeds the client’s expectations,” said Lisa Hopkins, CPCE, CMP, president of NACE and director of catering and conferences at the Houstonian Hotel, Club and Spa in Houston.

NACE member delegates approved the updated name during the Experience! Conference in New Orleans.

Statistics from a recent survey show that 51 percent of respondents work at a company seeking new hires; 44 percent say their work in catering and events is a second career and 67 percent persued it because they enjoy the industry. More than 40 percent said the barriers to establishing a career in catering and events is low, meaning there are plenty of options for newcomers.

The new name for NACE should attract a wider range of new members within the industry.