Meet the Team: Demi Lockett

Here at NCASS, there’s a passionate team working behind the scenes every day to make sure members get the most out of their membership – and we thought it was about time you got to know them!

This week we speak to Demi Lockett, Partnerships Manager at NCASS for over 8 and a half years. Demi oversees our brand and commercial partnership deals, making sure members get access to the best deals and knowledge, such as with Booker, Giles Insurance and Dojo.

What makes a partnership truly valuable for independent hospitality businesses?

When we bring on a new partner, our main criteria is simple: the partnership must provide a real benefit to our members. The most obvious benefits are often discounts, cashback, savings and free trials.

However, there’s also significant value in working with brands that are experts in their field. These partners can offer advice directly to members and provide support with specific business needs, much like we aim to do ourselves.

An added bonus is that by using these offers, many members are able to recoup the cost of their membership through savings and cashback alone.

What’s the most rewarding part of securing deals for our members?

Seeing the savings and cashback members are making. It can be difficult for businesses in the current climate, when margins are tight. So, knowing they’re getting something back or they’ve been able to save something is a really rewarding part of my job.

What’s one deal or type of support you think more members should be taking advantage of?

It really depends on your business and there are so many to choose from. If you are a fixed site & are responsible for your energy, I would advise talking to David at EIC. He has saved an average of £2k for members on their energy bills, some as high as £4k! He has been in the hospitality energy industry for 20 years and he won’t sell you anything you don’t need.

For events, get on the Add to Event deal. If you’re new to them, you get free credits to place quotes on jobs, which could lead to a job booking. Or if you’ve already got an account, you can get 20% off a credit bundle.

Finally, for everyone with a business vehicle, 60% off breakdown cover at AA!

Make sure you go onto the rewards section of your member dashboard because there are plenty more direct savings and cashback deals for NCASS members.

What’s your favourite thing about working within the hospitality industry?

It’s full of character & creativity, even when things are tough – it’s a resilient industry that adapts and changes.

What’s your go-to comfort food?

Buffalo wings or nachos

What would you name your food truck?

Smokey D’s Rolling Ribs – it would be an American BBQ brand specialising in ribs!

If you could give every member one piece of advice when it comes to getting the best deals for their business, what would it be?

Know your strengths and negotiate. If you’re buying more of a product, ask about bulk pricing.

Aside from deals, I would also say when getting into events that if you know you have a good following on social media, mention this in your applications and talk about promoting the event yourselves. You’re up against a lot of competition, so include your branding, reviews, food images and treat it like a job application.

Fun Fact

I won a writing competition in secondary school and the now King Charles read my poem.