South Africa’s longest-running food, drink, and hospitality trade exhibition will mark a major milestone in 2026, as Hostex celebrates 40 years of connecting professionals across the sector. The anniversary matters to Gauteng in particular, where the event has long served as a meeting point for chefs, suppliers, restaurateurs, manufacturers, and hospitality operators.
The 40th edition takes place from 8 to 10 March 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre. According to organisers, the milestone reflects not only longevity, but the exhibition’s ability to adapt through shifts in ownership, economic cycles, and changes in how the hospitality industry operates.
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From Caterex to Hostex: how it began
Hostex began life in March 1986 under a different name. The original event, Caterex, was launched by Gerald Dreyer, then publisher of Professional Caterer magazine. The aim was to create a physical platform where the publication’s readership could engage directly with suppliers and industry peers.
The first exhibition took place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre and attracted more than 3,000 visitors. A trademark issue soon led to a name change, and the event was rebranded as Hostex, a title that has remained in place for four decades.
Former organisers describe the early shows as experience-driven, with large exhibition stands, live demonstrations, and a strong focus on food preparation and equipment.
A long-standing relationship with chefs
One of the defining developments in Hostex’s history came in the early 1990s, when the exhibition formalised its working relationship with the South African Chefs Association. Under the leadership of the late Bill Gallagher, the association agreed to support Hostex exclusively.
That decision led to the creation of the SA Chefs Pavilion, which became a permanent feature of the show. Over the years, the pavilion has hosted:
• Culinary demonstrations
• Student cooking competitions
• Industry skills showcases
• Training and development initiatives
Former exhibition directors have credited this partnership with giving the event credibility and helping it remain relevant to working professionals rather than shifting toward a consumer-focused model.
Moments that shaped the exhibition
Across its four-decade run, Hostex has hosted a range of high-profile competitions and demonstrations that contributed to its reputation.
In the early 2000s, the SA Chefs Association introduced the Global Pizza Challenge to the exhibition floor. One edition included a guest appearance by the late broadcaster Jeremy Mansfield, adding public interest to the live competition.
Organisers also point to the role of long-term exhibitors in shaping the exhibition’s identity. Equipment suppliers, logistics companies, technology providers, and service brands returned year after year, helping to establish Hostex as a consistent business platform rather than a one-off showcase.
Expansion, consolidation, and refocus
Between 2016 and 2018, Hostex formed part of a larger co-located event known as Food and Hospitality Africa. The combined exhibition brought together hospitality, foodservice, and FMCG retail buyers under one roof.
According to organisers, the expanded format allowed for cross-industry engagement, but also highlighted the need for clearer segmentation. By 2020, Hostex returned as a standalone event, refocusing on professional hospitality audiences.
The restructured exhibition introduced defined industry zones, including:
• Food and Drink
• Equipment and Catering Infrastructure
• Contract Furnishings
• Hospitality Technology
This zoned approach remains in place for the 2026 edition.
Changes behind the scenes
For over 40 years, Hostex has been managed by several organisers. The exhibition has passed through the hands of media groups, exhibition specialists, and global trade show operators.
Current organisers say this continuity through change has been key to the exhibition’s survival, allowing it to respond to shifts in ownership while maintaining a consistent industry focus.
Industry figures involved in the exhibition’s management have described Hostex as a platform that retained exhibitor trust by delivering measurable business value rather than relying on foot traffic alone.
Hostex 2026: what is new
The 40th edition of Hostex will run under the theme “Opening Doors”, reflecting both the exhibition’s history and its future direction.
According to organisers, new features for 2026 include:
• A dedicated Beverage Hub reflecting growth in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink categories
• An SME Pavilion aimed at smaller and emerging suppliers
• A Retail Innovation Hub focused on operational systems and in-store technology
The event will continue to host live demonstrations, skills development activities, and product showcases across its exhibition floor.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng’s hospitality sector, Hostex remains one of the few large-scale, in-person platforms where operators, suppliers, and industry bodies meet annually. The exhibition supports skills development, supplier relationships, and exposure to new technologies, particularly for small businesses operating in Johannesburg, Tshwane, and surrounding metros.
The continued hosting of Hostex in Sandton also reflects Gauteng’s position as the country’s primary commercial hub for the hospitality and foodservice industries.
FAQ
What is Hostex?
Hostex is a professional trade exhibition for South Africa’s food, drink, and hospitality industries.
When does Hostex 2026 take place?
The exhibition runs from 8 to 10 March 2026.
Where is the event held?
Hostex 2026 will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
Who typically attends Hostex?
The exhibition is aimed at hospitality professionals, including chefs, restaurateurs, hotel operators, suppliers, and service providers.
Why is the 2026 event significant?
The 2026 edition marks 40 years since the exhibition’s founding in 1986.
What happens next
Organisers are expected to release further details on exhibitors, demonstrations, and programme schedules closer to the March 2026 opening. Industry bodies and suppliers will finalise participation as the exhibition approaches its milestone edition.
As the hospitality sector continues to navigate rising costs, skills shortages, and shifting consumer habits, Hostex 2026 will serve as both a reflection on four decades of industry change and a marker of where the sector is heading next.
