Description

As Kansas City prepares to welcome the world for the upcoming World Cup games, businesses across the region have a unique opportunity to showcase Midwestern hospitality on a global stage. Join us for World-Class Welcome, a wide-ranging webinar series and two-day conference designed to help local companies and organizations prepare for international visitors, during the World Cup and beyond. Hosted by the Kansas Department of Commerce, this program offers tools, cultural insights, and customer service strategies to ensure every international guest receives a first-class experience. Whether you’re in hospitality, retail, transportation, education, or any customer-facing industry, this series will equip your team with the knowledge and confidence to deliver a truly world-class welcome. With major international events bringing a diverse range of global travelers to our cities, understanding the dietary expectations and cultural preferences of international guests is more important than ever. This in-depth session is designed to support chefs, F&B teams, and hospitality professionals in creating inclusive menus that meet the needs of a global audience. We’ll focus on breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu development tailored for local hotels and restaurants, with specific insights into culinary preferences from European, Asian (including India), South American, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean travelers. Special attention will be given to religious and cultural dietary laws (Halal, Kosher, vegetarianism, and fasting practices) that may influence meal planning during high-profile events like FIFA. By the end of this webinar, you’ll be better equipped to make thoughtful, culturally aware menu choices that elevate guest experiences and reflect true hospitality.