THOMAS ASKE

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Thomas is the founder and CEO of Blank Canvas Collective and co-owner of the award winning Black Rock whisky bar and hotel group, Surfside restaurant and bottled cocktail specialists Aske Stephenson.

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He has spent over twenty years working within the hospitality industry having previously spent time as a brand ambassador for Diageo and more recently as the director of Fluid Movement. During his time with Fluid Movement, he consulted for clients in markets all over the world including Thailand, China, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica and Dubai. Thomas has also conducted seminars for some of the worlds biggest hospitality operators including Marriott Hotels, Diageo, LVMH and Hilton.

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In 2010 Thomas co-founded a bar group which went on to open a series of critically acclaimed venues such as Purl, The Worship Street Whistling Shop and the reigning best specialist bar of the year Black Rock. He also co-owns Surfside Polzeath, a beach front restaurant specialising in locally sourced meat and fish.

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Thomas is focused on the business metrics, ensuring that the concepts being delivered develop into profitable and sustainable businesses. He has a passion for gin history and flavour. He has written chapters on innovation in cocktails for GQ’s cocktail book and is also a regular contributor for Spirits Business magazine and Diageo Bar Academy.