Useful links

The Hospitality Awarding Body (HAB) is the UK's specialist awarding body for hospitality qualifications and also awards a number of one-day generic and service-sector qualifications.

The official branch of the Chartered Institute of Marketing specifically for the hotel industry. The HMA is supported by many of the hotel companies in the UK and its membership comprises sales, marketing and operations personnel from small and large hotels and companies alike.

Professional body aiming to promote high standards of management and education within the hospitality industry. Provides a variety of information and education services, including a series of small business seminars.

The Institute of Masters of Wine exists to promote the highest level of educational achievement for the wine industry, culminating in the internationally recognised qualification of Master of Wine (MW). It also runs tastings and other events programmes. The website includes excellent links to other wine sites and a recommended reading list.

The ITCA grew out of International Flight Catering Association, which was formed in the UK in 1980 as a forum and representative body for all companies involved in the inflight service industry. In 2005 this was opened up to include both the rail and shipping industries as well as inflight. Membership includes caterers, suppliers of products and equipment, and airline/sea/rail operators.

LACA is the professional body representing 1,000 catering managers and suppliers who provide catering services to all sectors of Local Authorities in England, Wales and Scotland. Local authority caterers are responsible for providing: school meals, civic and social services catering.