Published November 17, 2023 in STAY Magazine.

Avendra is one of North America’s leading hospitality procurement services providers, offering supply chain management solutions, consultation out of years of hospitality expertise, purchasing power, services and software to help hotel businesses increase profits, improve operational performance, and better serve guests. More than 16,500 customers rely on Avendra as a trusted partner. Avendra is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland.

Avendra Canada successfully serves hundreds of properties nationwide with tailored solutions to fit every brand; from unique boutique and long-term living to the industry’s leading hotel chains. The Canadian team is led by Afsar Ali Khan, managing director, client relations Canada, Avendra Canada, based in Toronto. Khan has 35+ years of experience in the hospitality industry in North America, Asia and the Middle East, with expertise in hotel management, F&B purchasing, operations, project management, and support at the corporate level. Khan develops and executes strategies with Avendra clients to achieve their goals and objectives

Also supporting the event was Nora Cornish, client relations Canada, analyst, Avendra Canada. Cornish has over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry with extensive customer support experience, implementation, supplier relations and client relations.

The three-day 2023 client appreciation event included over 500 clients.

Day one saw attendees gathered at the Westin Toronto Airport Hotel, led by Tony Tamburro, general manager, for a tremendous opening soirée. Followed by a full day of golf at the Royal Woodbine Country Club or Treetop Trekking for the non-golfers, these teambuilding experiences were aimed at fostering new connections, friendship, and a renewed sense of camaraderie.

The following day saw attendees move to Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, led by Peter Gillis, general manager, who helped facilitate a seamless event beginning with a cocktail and dinner reception in the evening, followed by the 12th Annual Avendra Canada Supplier Showcase the next day.

Over 137 supplier booths and 411 suppliers attended, from both North America and Europe participated to promote the latest and greatest products and services—many of them focused on sustainability.

According to Khan, the Avendra team was excited and proud to, once again, show its appreciation for its client partnerships by bringing together such a large and distinguished group of hotel owners, presidents and senior executives.