You asked, and we listened. This wasn't just a new chapter for HRC, it was a complete reimagination with a bold new direction that reflected the energy and evolution of today’s hospitality industry.

Built around your feedback, HRC 2026 was designed for the future - a show that sparked real conversations and delivered real business connections. With four brand-new show sections spotlighting fast-growing areas, plus expanded opportunities across the industry, HRC bought fresh energy, more flavour, and more targeted opportunities for exhibitors and buyers than ever before.
 

HRC celebration
Seminar programme
Chefs cooking
People chatting
man pouring drink

Why Now?

After celebrating its 90th birthday in 2025 and gathering feedback from our visitors, audience and the industry, it was clear that HRC needed a revamp. While the legacy of the event is loved by many, and will not be forgotten, it was time to focus on the future, and the next generation of hospitality professionals.  We took everything people love about HRC and made it bigger, bolder, and built around what the industry need. 

HRC 2026 was the place to discover what’s coming next, meet the people shaping it, and bring fresh ideas back to your business. 

What was new in 2026?

A New Home   

Creating a show that feels like the hospitality industry itself.

HRC moved to Excel’s South Hall, to give the event and the industry the space it deserved. An exciting Welcome Area, new features and a new event layout created a vibrant, festival-style atmosphere that reflected the creativity, energy and flavour of hospitality at its best.  

New Sections Built for You

The exciting new zones had been added to reflect the sector and provide you with the insights and solutions your business needs. 

Bar – For drinks that mixed craft with commercial clout 

Pastry – Where sweet skills met sharp business ideas 

Street Food – Innovation on wheels, built to scale 

Fresh Features & Bigger Ideas

The return of the much-loved Vision Stage, plus two brand new spaces: Future of Drinks stage and Pastry HQ. We had live demos, bold debates, tastings, and panels that held attention and addressed the topics important to you. 

More Ways to Meet the Right People

The hospitality sector’s were at HRC, and this time, it was easier to connect. From casual drinks receptions to our new networking app, it was about building relationships, not just swapping cards. Meeting leaders, suppliers, creators, innovators and future collaborators, all in one place, and real opportunities to share ideas and make connections.  

Pull up a chair. Let's shape the future of hospitality in 2027