Foodservice Australia returns bigger and better
Event Director Tim Collett says ‘after surviving lockdown the food industry is on the crest of a massive rebound. Everyone wants to reconnect and rebuild. A tradeshow is the obvious place to catch up and discover the new food and equipment trends. I have no doubt this will be the biggest and most important show we have ever run’.
Foodservice Australia runs from 27 February to 1 March at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. It will have over 450 exhibitors and special events including the National Restaurant Conference, Aged Care Catering Summit, Chef of the Year Competition, Chef Success Workshops, Café School, Sweet Spot and the famous Bocuse d’Or.
On the food side there will thousands of new products to see and sample. They include ingredients, convenience products, gourmet products, snacks and beverages. There are also dedicated sections for artisan producers and plant-based ingredients.
On the equipment side visitors will be able to try out the latest catering equipment including ovens, fryers, slicers, toasters, knives, refrigeration, benches and coffee machines. There will also be the latest point of sale systems and packaging.
Collett says they have worked closely with the government and industry to ensure the show can run safely and successfully. He says ‘the MCEC is one of the safest indoor spaces in Melbourne. Everyone needs to be vaccinated and wear a mask except when sampling. But we are all used to this now and the show can move forward with minimal disruption”.
Asked about the impact of lockdowns Collett said the event industry had been smashed. ‘Nobody could ever have anticipated a 24-month shutdown. We have worked extra hard to keep people engaged through all the delays and cancelations. I am just so grateful our suppliers, presenters and exhibitors stuck with us. It is exciting to see events returning and we are absolutely ready.’
Visitor registration is now open. Entry is free but you must be over 16 and work in a food or hospitality business. For online registration visit www.foodserviceaustralia.com.au
Media information
Stephanie Polglaze
Specialised Events
03 9999 5460