HRC, the trade event for hospitality and foodservice professionals, has unveiled a significant new direction for its 2026 edition, promising a completely transformed experience when it returns to ExCeL London from 30 March to 1 April.

Based on detailed feedback from exhibitors, partners and visitors, and shaped by independent industry research, HRC is undergoing a thoughtful and ambitious transformation.

The show will relocate to ExCeL London’s South Hall, joining The Pub Show and the new hospitality tech event, Hospitality Tech360. This move reflects a broader shift in focus, with a redesigned layout and new features aimed at fostering genuine connection, showcasing innovation and supporting the business needs of the fast-moving hospitality industry.

“This is so much more than a refresh,” commente Jo Farish, event manager for HRC. “We’ve taken a deep dive into what the industry really wants from its dedicated trade show. The result is a bold reinvention of HRC; one that celebrates creativity, drives innovation, and creates opportunities to connect in ways that feel natural and impactful. The energy building for 2026 is electric, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone to this new era.”

What’s new for 2026?

New for HRC 2026 are dedicated show sections including Bar, Pastry, Street Food and Pizza & Pasta, which will showcase immersive, trend-led experiences and a diverse range of suppliers ready to elevate hospitality offerings.

The introduction of Pastry HQ, which expands on the popular Chef HQ feature, curated by Chef Publishing, and the Future of Drinks Stage alongside the ever-popular Vision Stage will add further depth to HRC’s already powerful content programme, combining high-energy panels with practical insight and live demos. 

Another new addition, the Chef’s Table, will offer a curated space where top chefs cook live using products from the show, creating an engaging, real-time showcase of innovation and quality. Designed with senior buyers and multi-site operators in mind, it’s a setting that encourages meaningful dialogue, product discovery, and valuable brand exposure, all in an environment that feels more like a conversation than a pitch. 

New digital tools and event features will elevate networking across the three days. A new matchmaking app, a Meet the Buyer programme and a buzzing calendar of social and networking events mean more face time, better leads, and meaningful conversations. 

Scott Duncan, managing director of exhibiting brand Unox, commented: “The Unox team are greatly looking forward to taking part in HRC 2026. HRC is a key event in the UK’s hospitality and catering calendar, bringing together senior leaders from across the industry to exchange ideas and discover new professional kitchen solutions. We can’t wait to showcase the latest developments from Unox at the show and connect with chefs and operators from across the sector.” 

Stuart Jeffrey, marketing director at Unilever Food Solutions UK&I-ANZ, highlighted: “HRC 2025 was the perfect platform to launch our Future Menus Volume 3 report on the Vision Stage. It allowed us to connect with forward-thinking hospitality leaders and share insights shaping the future of food. The added brand exposure and access to HRC’s audience also extended our reach beyond the event. We were proud to partner with HRC in driving innovation and helping operators stay ahead of evolving diner expectations.” 

Tom Holloway, head chef, The Pig Hotel in Harlyn Bay, added: “HRC is exceptional, an amazing celebration of hospitality, food and drink, showcasing creativity and passion in our industry”.

With a revitalised atmosphere, re-energised format and an engaged audience hungry for what’s next, HRC 2026 promises to be the UK’s most exciting hospitality trade event revival. 

Find out more about everything happening as part of HRC 2026, and enquire into exhibiting or speaking at the show here.