Global Participation from 124 Countries and 9% Increase in Exhibit Space Highlight the Event’s Remarkable Success
The 2024 National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show® concluded on Tuesday at Chicago’s McCormick Place, solidifying its reputation as the premier event for the foodservice industry. This year, the Show attracted over 58,000 foodservice professionals from across the United States and around the globe, representing 124 countries. The event saw a 6% increase in total attendance, with a notable 22% growth in international participation compared to last year, underscoring its expanding influence and significance within the industry. Additionally, there was a 9% increase in exhibit space compared to 2023, providing a comprehensive platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate.
“The 2024 National Restaurant Association Show has once again proven to be the cornerstone event for foodservice professionals worldwide,” said Tom Cindric, President of Exhibitions for Informa Connect Foodservice. “This year’s Show not only showcased the latest innovations and trends but also provided an unmatched platform for networking, education, and inspiration. We are proud to lead the industry in bringing together such a diverse and dynamic group of professionals who are driving the future of foodservice.”
2024 Show Highlights
Show Floor
The Show floor was vibrant with energy and excitement as decision-makers from leading restaurants and foodservice operations explored the latest products, technologies, and solutions. The event featured over 2,240 exhibitors, with 34% being first-time participants, reflecting a 6% overall growth from the 2023 event. Spanning over 723,400 square feet—equivalent to more than 12 football fields—the Show offered attendees a chance to explore products and services across more than 900 categories.
“This Show has completely elevated our business for wholesale and direct to restaurants and bars,” said Aimée Sedky, co-founder and owner of Mockly and a first-time exhibitor. “I could not recommend it more. It’s just so rare that you get to meet so many decision-makers in one place. I feel like we got right to the people that matter and that’s been really huge.”
Several key trends emerged on the Show floor, reflecting evolving consumer demands for seamless customer service, convenience, and memorable experiences. Notable trends included:
• Flavor Experiences: Embracing global flavors, playful plating, and health-conscious options.
• Technology Integration: AI-driven solutions like voice assistants and kitchen equipment with built-in sensors, and innovations in AI-generated plant-based food development.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly products and zero-waste initiatives setting new standards for food production.
• Snacking: The rise of convenient and indulgent snack options responding to changing consumer lifestyles.
International Participation
This year saw unprecedented international participation, with attendees from 124 countries, marking a 22% increase from the previous year. Top countries represented included Brazil, Canada, China, Mexico, Taiwan, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey, Japan, and Spain. Increased representation from African countries and significant participation from China, the United Kingdom, Honduras, and Cameroon highlighted the Show’s global appeal.
The Show floor featured 621 international exhibitors, showcasing diverse products and innovations from 44 countries. This global representation offered attendees unique insights into international trends and opportunities for cross-border collaborations. International pavilions, such as the Bellavita Italian Pavilion, Iberica Spanish Pavilion, and the Global Food Expo, highlighted the richness and variety of the global foodservice industry, making the 2024 Show a truly international event with more global representation than ever before.
“It’s a million little things running a restaurant,” said Michael Sito, owner of the Globe Bookstore and Café in the Czech Republic. “And these little things are changing every day, so coming [to the Show] and meeting other restaurateurs as well as distributors and wholesalers, you get a broad array of what’s happening in the industry. In three or four days, you can get caught up on six months of trends.”
The 2024 National Restaurant Association Show® has demonstrated its pivotal role in the foodservice industry, fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth on a global scale.