Alimentaria gastronomy trade show marks 50 years in Barcelona with strong international presence

The Alimentaria+Hostelco gastronomy and hospitality trade show will celebrate its 50th anniversary in Barcelona from March 23 to 26 with a strong international presence, as roughly one third of exhibitors come from abroad.

Around 1,000 of the 3,300 participating companies represent 70 countries – resulting in a growth of 41% in the international exhibition space compared with last year's edition. 

Europe, Asia and Latin America will all have a notable presence at the event, with Poland taking part as the Guest Country of Honour.

Among the confirmed international companies are Bergfood from the Netherlands, Sonae from Portugal, US-based PriceSmart and Walmart, Brazil's Grupo Pão de Açúcar (GPA), Mexico’s La Comer and India’s BigBasket.

Organisers expect around 110,000 visitors, who will gather across 100,000 square metres spread over seven pavilions at the Gran Via venue of Fira de Barcelona. More than 14,500 business meetings are also expected to take place during the four-day event.

All of Spain's autonomous communities will also be represented, with the largest presence coming from Catalonia, Castile and León, Andalusia, Madrid, the Valencian Community and Murcia.

Innovation as the main theme of this year's edition

According to Alimentaria president Antoni Llorens, the 2026 edition will be a "historic" one, underlining the fair's role as a global platform where the food industry can drive business and exchange knowledge. 

Innovation is one of the main themes of this edition with 'The Alimentaria Hub' acting as the main space for knowledge, trends and the transformation of the sector. 

Additionally, more than 200 national and international experts will take part in forums and seminars covering sustainability, digitalisation, food safety and evolving consumer habits.

The fair will also showcase more than 300 new products and concepts at the 'Innoval exhibition,' while 60 companies will present their ideas at 'Food & Hospitality Startups,' a space that is increasingly becoming a hub for entrepreneurship within the food industry. 

 

Visitors will find developments ranging from functional foods and plant-based proteins to artificial intelligence applications for personalised nutrition.

Specialised spaces such as 'The Bakery & Pastry Hub' and 'The Coffee Stage' will highlight innovation in baking, pastry, chocolate, ice cream and coffee, with participation from internationally recognised professionals including American Antonio Bachour, and Catalans Lluc Crusellas and Miquel Guarro. 

This year's edition will also host several competitions and awards, including the first 'Alimentaria International Cooking Championship.'