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SCOTHOT 2025, why it is good for your Wellbeing

Wow,  SCOTHOT, Scotland’s premier showcase for Food, Drink, Hospitality, Retail & Tourism – is back at the SEC!

I know it is only every 2 years, however it has been a while since we have all managed to get together at the wonderful SEC in Glasgow.

What an amazing two days it will be. Along with the usual exhibitors there will of course be the Scottish Culinary Championships, highlighting the talent that Scotland has in the culinary field.

In addition there will be The STA Spotlight Stage that will host a number of interesting and influential coffee table chats of the 2 days, including a session at 10.00 on Thursday 27th February entitled Nurturing the Next Generation Moderated by The Burnt Chef project –

Dean Parker, Chef Patron of Celentano’s, Glasgow

Robert McIntyre, CDP of Elements, Glasgow

Jemma McDougall, CDP of Unalome, Glasgow

Orry Shand, National Chef of the Year 2025, Craft Guild of Chefs

Gordon McIntyre MBE, Founder, Hospitality Health It should be an interesting discussion, hopefully offering lots of insight and food for thought.

There is also a hidden positive by attending the events over the 2 days. It’s all about staying connected to your friends and colleagues within the industry. Many of whom you may not have seen face to face for several years. Reach out to each other, create the connections, and catch up for a coffee or a meal while in the city. How many remember the days when SCOTHOT was held at the old Kelvin Hall in Argyle Street???? That was a few years ago I hear you shout! (Please share with us your memories and stories of the old days!)

Being and staying connected is crucial for your well-being and maintaining positive mental health because humans are naturally social beings. Here’s why:

  1. Emotional Support

Having strong relationships helps you feel supported during tough times. Whether it’s family, friends, or a community, social connections provide comfort, encouragement, and reassurance.

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Spending time with loved ones or simply talking to someone can lower stress hormones like cortisol. Meaningful interactions promote relaxation and emotional balance.

  1. Boosts Self-Esteem

Healthy relationships reinforce a sense of belonging and self-worth. Feeling valued and appreciated by others contributes to a more positive self-image.

  1. Prevents Loneliness and Depression

Isolation can lead to feelings of sadness and even depression. Staying socially connected reduces loneliness and promotes a sense of purpose.

  1. Encourages Healthy Behaviours

Friends and family can influence positive lifestyle choices, such as exercising, and eating well.

  1. Enhances Cognitive Function

Engaging in conversations, social activities, or group learning keeps the brain active and sharp, reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

  1. Provides a Sense of Purpose

Connections give life meaning, whether through relationships, shared goals, or helping others. Feeling needed and valued contributes to overall happiness.

Maintaining social connections—whether through in-person interactions, phone calls, or online communication—can have a lasting impact on your mental and emotional well-being.

Who in your life do you feel most connected to?

SCOTHOT is such a brilliant showcase for so many suppliers and businesses. Also for aspiring and inspiring chefs competing in the Scottish Culinary Championships. It is hoped that they are employed within businesses who are displaying a positive work culture. Perhaps they will have been awarded the Hospitality Health Wellness Charter or have the Hoteliers Charter in place…either way, what is important is that organisations do not see mental health as a tick box exercise and instead spend time on what is a vitally important part of the business. The best businesses value their staff, and they are never ignored, undermined or belittled. They are made to feel safe, confident, and comfortable to express how they are feeling and thinking.

I hope to see many of you at SCOTHOT over the two days 26th & 27th February, please stop me for a chat and catch up, or to connect for the first time too.

Gordon McIntyre MBE

Chairman

Hospitality Health

www.hospitalityhealth.org.uk