Tossed Founder wins Acorn

Vincent Mckevitt, the 29-year-old Founder of fast casual healthy eating franchise Tossed, has been picked out as one of the 30 individuals who represent the best rising talent in the UK's hospitality industry. The accolade came through catering trade publication Caterer & Hotelkeeper's 2009 Acorn Awards, which celebrate the best young talent in the sector by naming 30 individuals under the age of 30 who have distinguished themselves in the last year.

The awards have previously named the likes of Marco Pierre White, Gary Rhodes and Marcus Wearing, all of whom have risen to celebrity chef fame. Vincent, who has also previously been picked out as 'the one to watch' for hospitality in The Observer's 'Future 500' list, has opened seven locations of Tossed, two of which are franchised.

Tossed specialises in freshly tossed-to-order salads, as well as wraps, soups and other healthy and nutritionally balanced, freshly prepared foods, with the emphasis on health and indulgence.

"It is a great feeling to be recognised within the industry and to meet so many of the people who have shaped and are shaping the way we eat," said Vincent on receiving his award at a ceremony held at luxury hotel operator Von Essen's Lower Slaughter Manor, Gloucestershire. "I have put my all in building Tossed and I firmly believe that the concept will grow. I like healthy food at a decent price and this is what we offer."