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Alimentaria+Hostelco to Enhance Its Global Reach in 2026

Alimentaria+Hostelco, recognized as a premier international platform specializing in food, beverages, food service, and hospitality, is gearing up for its next event scheduled from March 23 to 26, 2026, at the Gran Via of Fira de Barcelona. This year, the event will feature a remarkable 41% increase in international participation, signaling its ongoing commitment to attract global industry leaders.

As of now, nearly 1,000 international companies have confirmed their presence, constituting over 30% of all exhibitors. This marks an 11% growth compared to the previous edition. Notably, the area allocated to these international participants has risen by 41%, illustrating the expanding influence of Alimentaria+Hostelco in setting industry trends and fostering new business opportunities.

Italy takes the lead with more than 200 participating companies, followed closely by Poland, China, Turkey, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, France, the Netherlands, and Greece, which reflects a diverse global representation. J. Antonio Valls, the Managing Director of Alimentaria Exhibitions, expressed that the surge in international involvement reinforces the event's position as a global benchmark capable of attracting top manufacturers and exporters, thus creating valuable connections throughout the global food sector.

In addition, almost 25% of the anticipated 110,000 visitors are expected to come from outside Spain, highlighting the event's global appeal. To further enhance business potential, the event will implement a comprehensive invitational program for buyers. This initiative will bring together more than 1,500 importers, merchants, directors, and executives from over 80 strategically significant countries.

The objective of this program is to connect key decision-makers within the sector — specifically, importers, vendors, and operators in the Horeca fields, including hotels, restaurants, retail, cruising, and travel services. A hallmark of the event will be the meticulously organized matchmaking meetings between invited buyers and exhibitors, with an expected attendance of 14,000 participants.

Expectations for participation also include buyers and importers from significant markets, such as the United States, Mexico, China, Hong Kong, Canada, United Kingdom, Netherlands, South Korea, Singapore, Germany, and Chile. This coverage underscores essential target markets for Spanish exports, particularly in Europe and Latin America.

This year's Alimentaria+Hostelco is not just an event; it's a strategic initiative to encourage interaction across the food industry spectrum. With the combined effort to enhance global connections, the 2026 event aims to redefine business landscapes and create tangible pathways for growth and collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.

Marked on every stakeholder's calendar, Alimentaria+Hostelco stands poised to shape the future of the food and beverage industry on a worldwide scale. Investors, producers, and innovators alike will find unparalleled opportunities to engage, collaborate, and learn within this dynamic environment, making it a must-visit event for anyone involved in food and hospitality.

This reinvigoration of the Alimentaria+Hostelco franchise stands testament to its vital role in promoting international business networks and fostering new trends that enhance the global food industry's vitality.