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Hospitality Market Place
Hostex 2026
40 Years of Opening Doors – And the Biggest Show Yet
8–10 March 2026 | Sandton Convention Centre
As long-standing media partners, Hospitality Marketplace is proud to support Hostex 2026 – not only as a platform that celebrates four decades of impact, but as a vital catalyst for the next era of hospitality, foodservice, and retail excellence in South Africa.
“For more than 12 years, we’ve had the privilege of partnering with Hostex — and year after year, we’ve watched it evolve into something far greater than just a trade event. It’s an energy — a heartbeat of the sector — and Hostex 2026 captures the pulse of where we’re going as an industry,” says Chantelle Balsdon, Special Projects Director at Hospitality Marketplace. “We’re honoured to be part of this journey and can’t wait to see what this landmark edition delivers.”
Next year, Hostex returns to the Sandton Convention Centre with its most ambitious vision yet. Two packed halls. A renewed sense of purpose. Thousands of decision-makers under one roof.
The Show That Built an Industry
Hostex has long been the engine of South Africa’s food, drink, and hospitality trade – a place where deals are made, ideas are exchanged, and trends are set. In 2026, that legacy is amplified with the bold theme: Opening Doors.
With major players like BCE, FoodServ, Vulcan, Importalia, and Scotsman confirmed, next year’s exhibitor lineup is already shaping up to be the biggest in years. The full show floor will activate across both Hall 1 and Hall 2, with new districts designed to serve a sector in motion.
What’s New in 2026
The Beverage Hub
An immersive space dedicated to drinks innovation – from zero-proof cocktails and cold brew coffee to craft spirits and functional tonics. Visitors can expect live demos, tastings, and quick-hit “Taste Talk Trend” sessions from leading drink experts and associations.
The SME Hub
Developed Located alongside the in collaboration with the dtic Pavilion, Tthis new zone is a springboard for high-potential small businesses, designed to connect them with procurement officers, corporates, and funding partners.
The Retail Hub
Focused on forecourt, franchise, and convenience formats, this showcase will spotlight retail tech, display innovation, fitment solutions, and packaging designed for South Africa’s growing on-the-go segment.
Country Pavilions
Expect curated participation from Italy, India, Turkey, Poland, China, and Australia, each offering export-ready products, technologies, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
The Coffee Market
Created in partnership with SCASA and local roasters, this dynamic zone connects bean to cup – featuring suppliers, machines, service providers, and the national SCASA Barista Championships.
Back by Popular Demand
Some things remain constant – and essential.
The Skillery by SA Chefs returns as an open kitchen of creativity, mentorship, and culinary innovation. Live cooking demos, interactive masterclasses, and recipe showcases will once again anchor the show’s experiential edge.
Sustainable Solutions will once again be prominently featured – across packaging, production, and kitchen equipment – as the industry moves steadily toward lower-waste, energy-smart operations.
Why Hostex Still Delivers
Hostex 2024 set a high bar:
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94% of visitors rated the show valuable to their business
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74% made or influenced purchasing decisions
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85% of exhibitors generated high-quality leads
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91% of all visitors discovered new products or suppliers
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Buyers attended from 14 countries across Africa and beyond
“Hostex delivers in every way. It’s the human connection we need to re-energise and be inspired.”
– Chef James Khoza, 2024 Hostex Ambassador
These aren’t just trade show stats – they’re proof of a platform that works. A show that doesn't just showcase the industry but strengthens it.
The Invitation: Show Up. Get Seen. Get Connected.
We’ve all seen the trajectory. From local launches to global export plays, niche innovators to powerhouse suppliers – the message is clear: the industry is growing, and the pace is accelerating.
Whether you’re a supplier, innovator, buyer, hotelier, restaurateur, or investor, Hostex 2026 is the platform to be on. Not just for visibility, but for real connection and future-facing business.
Book Your Stand
Exhibition space is filling fast. With less than a year to go, suppliers across food, beverage, hospitality equipment, and retail technology are urged to secure their stands early to maximise footfall, visibility, and ROI.
Contact: Jacky Talling
Email: Jacky.Talling@montgomerygroup.com
Phone: +27 (0)10 003 3057
More details: www.hostex.co.za
Social: Facebook @hostexza | Instagram @hostex_sa | LinkedIn @hostex-sa
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