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Alimentaria+Hostelco 2026: The Powerhouse of Food and Hospitality

Alimentaria+Hostelco is set to make a grand return to Barcelona from March 23 to 26, 2026, at the Gran Vía exhibition center. This year marks a significant milestone, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Alimentaria itself, reinforcing its status as a leading platform for the food, hospitality, and foodservice sectors.

The event is expected to cover a vast area of 100,000 square meters spread across seven different halls, showcasing a record increase in international participation by 41%, compared to the previous edition in 2024. With over 3,300 companies participating, nearly 1,000 hail from 70 different countries, constituting more than 30% of the total exhibitors. Notably, Europe will have a strong presence, with Poland being the Guest Country, alongside significant involvement from Asia and Latin America. Major international brands confirmed for participation include KeHE, Bidfood, Bergfood, Cotswold Fayre, Sonae, PriceSmart, Walmart, GPA, La Comer, BigBasket, and Alkosto, highlighting the global relevance of this event.

To foster trade and market access, the organizers are extending invitations to 1,500 top buyers and importers from 100 countries, alongside 1,200 national buyers. An impressive number of over 14,500 business meetings are anticipated during the event.

The exhibition will be organized into specialized sectors, with Intercarn being the largest segment, featuring 350 companies across 15,000 square meters. Additional highlighted areas will include Organic Foods, Food Trends, and Fine Foods, all focused on innovation. Categories like Coffee, Bakery, and Pastry are set to double their space, reflecting the growing interest in these sectors. Furthermore, the event will present a wide array of innovations through the Alimentaria Hub, welcoming 200 experts in sustainability, digitalization, food safety, and emerging trends, as well as showcasing over 300 product innovations and 60 startups in food and hospitality.

Part of the Horeca sector will occupy more than 20,000 square meters, incorporating 600 companies and 200 activities. The Horeca Hub will see events like Imagine Foodservice Europe and the new space titled The Shift. The Bakery and Pastry Hub, along with The Coffee Stage, will bring in industry luminaries for discussions and demonstrations. The program is packed with competitions, including the inaugural International Food Recipe Championship backed by #AlimentosDeEspaña, the Horeca Awards, and various professional championships, amplifying the spirit of competition within the culinary community.

Organized by Alimentaria Exhibitions, a division of Fira de Barcelona, Alimentaria+Hostelco 2026 is expected to welcome over 110,000 professional visitors, marking a 25% rise in international attendees. This reenforces its leadership as a premier platform for business, globalization, and networking within the food and hospitality sectors.

For further information and updates, please check the official website and stay connected with the latest developments regarding this landmark event.