CHICAGO — The 2024 National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show was recently held at McCormick Place in Chicago and attracted more than 58,000 foodservice professionals from across the U.S. and around the globe, representing 124 countries. The show saw a six-per-cent increase in total attendance — and 22 per cent international growth — compared to last year. With a nine-per-cent increase in exhibit space compared to 2023, the show floor provided a comprehensive platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate.
“The 2024 National Restaurant Association Show has once again proven to be the cornerstone event for foodservice professionals worldwide,” says Tom Cindric, president of Exhibitions for Informa Connect Foodservice. “This year’s show not only showcased the latest innovations and trends but also provided an unmatched platform for networking, education and inspiration. We are proud to lead the industry in bringing together such a diverse and dynamic group of professionals who are driving the future of foodservice.”
This year, several key trends stood out on the show floor. One major trend was the focus on flavour experiences, with restaurants embracing global flavours, playful plating and health-conscious options to captivate consumers. Another prominent trend was the integration of technology to enhance convenience, including AI-driven solutions such as voice assistants that enhance customer service, kitchen equipment with built-in sensors that free up staff and innovations in AI-generated plant-based food development. Sustainability continued to be a critical focus, with many exhibitors highlighting eco-friendly products and zero-waste initiatives that set new standards for food production. Additionally, the rise of snacking as a response to changing consumer lifestyles was evident with a variety of convenient snack options on display.
Countries with the highest number of attendees included Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico, Taiwan, Colombia, the U.K., Italy, Turkey, Japan and Spain. The floor itself featured a significant presence of 621 international exhibitors, showcasing a diverse range of products and innovations from 44 countries around the world. The inclusion of international pavilions, such as the Bellavita Italian Pavilion, Iberica Spanish Pavilion and the Global Food Expo, highlighted the variety of the global foodservice industry.
A new addition to the show this year was the Expo + Education program, which provided enhanced educational opportunities for the 2,700 Expo + Education badge holders. This program included more than 40 sessions led by industry operators, focusing on critical business strategies, game-changing food-and-beverage innovations and practical solutions for contemporary challenges. The sessions covered various topics, including sustainability, technology integration and customer experience enhancement, offering attendees valuable insights and actionable takeaways.
Furthermore, a keynote discussion with acclaimed chef, restaurateur and humanitarian José Andrés provided insights on the transformative power of food and his journey in intertwining culinary excellence with humanitarian and food-policy efforts. Additionally, the Technomic featured session titled Journey to 2030 – Forecasting the Future of Foodservice was a highlight with food futurist Liz Moskow and Technomic’s Joe Pawlak guiding attendees through projected opportunities and challenges in the industry.
The show also showcased celebrated chefs and master mixologists demonstrating their culinary and beverage expertise. Attendees witnessed live cooking demonstrations and engaging sessions with renowned culinary figures. These demos and sessions covered the latest cooking techniques, plating innovations, and creative ingredient use. Top mixologists and beverage experts shared their secrets to unique cocktails and beverages, highlighting trends like low-alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks, global flavours, and sustainable practices.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards recognized 25 foodservice equipment innovations that are driving enhancements in automation, efficiency, safety and sustainability.
The FABI Awards honoured 35 products that are shaping the future of food and beverage, with 10 receiving special recognition as FABI Favourites. Among the notable products were the AI-generated recipes for plant-based Kraft products and sustainable food production from Atarraya Inc.
Plans are already underway for the 2025 show, which will take place from May 17 to 20 at McCormick Place in Chicago.
