The Alimentaria + Hostelco trade fair will introduce dedicated areas for the Horeca sector during its 2026 edition in Barcelona. These spaces aim to foster innovation and networking among professionals in foodservice and hospitality. The event expects to draw over 110,000 visitors from around the world.
Alimentaria + Hostelco, marking its 50th anniversary, is set to host its 2026 edition from March 23 to 26 at Fira de Barcelona's Gran Via venue. Organized by Alimentaria Exhibitions, a Fira de Barcelona company, the fair will feature around 3,300 exhibiting companies across 100,000 square meters in seven pavilions. It anticipates more than 110,000 professional visitors, with 25% international attendance, positioning it as a key platform for business and networking in the food and beverage industry.
A major highlight is The Horeca Hub, the event's largest dedicated space at 3,000 square meters. This hub will host nearly 200 activities, including strategic sessions, live demonstrations, tastings, and product showcases for hospitality solutions. Over 600 companies from Horeca and foodservice sectors, 30% international, will participate, attracting an estimated 50,000 professionals and 1,000 strategic buyers.
J. Antonio Valls, General Manager of Alimentaria Exhibitions, stated, “Alimentaria+Hostelco is taking a decisive step to support the transformation of the HORECA channel, with new spaces specifically designed for the sector. We have strengthened our commitment to innovation and competitiveness in a strategic area like never before, offering a meeting point capable of anticipating trends and generating new growth opportunities.”
The Horeca Hub's congress program will cover emerging trends, consumer evolution, digital transformation, business models, operational efficiency, and customer experience. Speakers include Jorge Marichal of CEHAT, Miguel Ángel Sanz of Turespaña, and others such as Jennifer Pettinger and Rebeca Muñoz.
The Imagine Foodservice Europe congress, in collaboration with Marcas de Restauración, will feature leaders discussing economic challenges, consumption habits, digitalization, automation, sustainability, and catering dynamics. Notable speakers are Dirk Jacobs of FoodDrinkEurope, Henry McGovern of McWin, and João Almeida of KFC.
Culinary demonstrations will involve renowned chefs like Oriol Castro, Eduard Xatruch, and Mateu Casañas of Disfrutar, as well as Paolo Casagrande of Lasarte. The event will also host the First International Cooking Championship of Alimentaria, sponsored by Alimentos de España, under standards from the World Association of Chefs Societies.
The HORECA Awards 2026, in its eighth edition, will recognize achievements in Horeca, foodservice, and retail. New additions include The Bakery & Pastry Hub, with participants such as Joan Roca and Antonio Bachour, and the inaugural Best Bread Award. The Coffee Stage will feature a congress on coffee's role in Horeca, including cuppings, championships, and speakers like Andre Barretto.
