CHICAGO — With anticipated participation of more than 55,000 industry professionals, the National Restaurant Association, Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show, taking place May 18 to 21 at McCormick Place in Chicago, is gearing up to host one of its largest shows since 2019. Boasting an expanded show floor by 10 per cent compared to 2023, the 2024 show will feature more than 2,240 exhibitors spanning every facet of the industry. Among these, 68 per cent are returning to the show and will be joined by more than 700 companies debuting products for the first time.
“The show remains unparalleled in its ability to showcase the industry’s vitality and drive innovation forward,” says Tom Cindric, president of the National Restaurant Association Show. “With each passing year, the show provides a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s trajectory, shaped by the collective contributions of our diverse exhibitors. We eagerly anticipate the influx of new voices and ideas, alongside the continued insights from our returning participants.”
The exhibit space covers more than 700,000 sq. ft., the size of more than 12 football fields. There will be more than 900 product categories on display, ranging from food and beverage to equipment, technology, AI-powered solutions and bespoke tableware products.
This year, the show will welcome more than 600 international exhibitors, representing 28 per cent of the total exhibitors, from diverse countries, including Canada, China, Brazil, India and more. The exhibitors will be featured within eight pavilions to offer curated experiences, such as A Taste of the States, Bellavita Italian Pavilion, Iberica Spanish Pavilion, The Beverage Room, Global Food Expo, Organic & Neutral and the TECH Pavilion. Additionally, the Startup Alley will highlight first-time exhibitors and emerging organizations presenting food-and-beverage items, equipment, technology and more.
Lastly, this year’s Food and Beverage (FABI) Awards are recognizing 35 recipients for their industry-altering products shaping the future of food and beverage, with 10 FABI favourites selected by the judges for their unmatched influence and visionary contributions to the industry. Additionally, the 2024 Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards celebrate their 20th anniversary, honouring 25 recipients who define the gold standard of foodservice equipment innovations, elevating automation, efficiency, safety and sustainability.
