{"id":34412,"date":"2026-02-05T19:50:48","date_gmt":"2026-02-05T17:50:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=34412"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:41:44","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:41:44","slug":"hostex-marks-40-years-hospitality-industry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/hostex-marks-40-years-hospitality-industry\/","title":{"rendered":"Hostex Marks 40 Years as a Cornerstone of South Africa\u2019s Hospitality Industry"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>South Africa\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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\u2019s ability to adapt through shifts in ownership, economic cycles, and changes in how the hospitality industry operates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>ALSO READ: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/city-sightseeing-launches-valentines-day\/\">City Sightseeing Johannesburg Launches Valentine\u2019s Day Evening Experience for 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Caterex to Hostex: how it began<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hostex.co.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hostex <\/a>began life in March 1986 under a different name. The original event, Caterex, was launched by Gerald Dreyer, then publisher of <em>Professional Caterer<\/em> magazine. The aim was to create a physical platform where the publication\u2019s readership could engage directly with suppliers and industry peers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Former organisers describe the early shows as experience-driven, with large exhibition stands, live demonstrations, and a strong focus on food preparation and equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1399216980\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A long-standing relationship with chefs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the defining developments in Hostex\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Culinary demonstrations<br>\u2022 Student cooking competitions<br>\u2022 Industry skills showcases<br>\u2022 Training and development initiatives<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"472\" height=\"316\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-34414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image.png 472w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-300x201.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-450x301.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"472\" height=\"316\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-34416\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2.png 472w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-300x201.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/image-2-450x301.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 472px) 100vw, 472px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Moments that shaped the exhibition<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Across its four-decade run, Hostex has hosted a range of high-profile competitions and demonstrations that contributed to its reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organisers also point to the role of long-term exhibitors in shaping the exhibition\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-696713503\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Expansion, consolidation, and refocus<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The restructured exhibition introduced defined industry zones, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Food and Drink<br>\u2022 Equipment and Catering Infrastructure<br>\u2022 Contract Furnishings<br>\u2022 Hospitality Technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This zoned approach remains in place for the 2026 edition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Changes behind the scenes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Current organisers say this continuity through change has been key to the exhibition\u2019s survival, allowing it to respond to shifts in ownership while maintaining a consistent industry focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Industry figures involved in the exhibition\u2019s management have described Hostex as a platform that retained exhibitor trust by delivering measurable business value rather than relying on foot traffic alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1292986680\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hostex 2026: what is new<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The 40th edition of Hostex will run under the theme \u201cOpening Doors\u201d, reflecting both the exhibition\u2019s history and its future direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to organisers, new features for 2026 include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 A dedicated Beverage Hub reflecting growth in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink categories<br>\u2022 An SME Pavilion aimed at smaller and emerging suppliers<br>\u2022 A Retail Innovation Hub focused on operational systems and in-store technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The event will continue to host live demonstrations, skills development activities, and product showcases across its exhibition floor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Means for Gauteng Residents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For Gauteng\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The continued hosting of Hostex in Sandton also reflects Gauteng\u2019s position as the country\u2019s primary commercial hub for the hospitality and foodservice industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-455943023\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is Hostex<\/strong>?<br>Hostex is a professional trade exhibition for South Africa\u2019s food, drink, and hospitality industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>When does Hostex 2026 take place<\/strong>?<br>The exhibition runs from 8 to 10 March 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where is the event held?<\/strong><br>Hostex 2026 will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Who typically attends Hostex<\/strong>?<br>The exhibition is aimed at hospitality professionals, including chefs, restaurateurs, hotel operators, suppliers, and service providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why is the 2026 event significant?<\/strong><br>The 2026 edition marks 40 years since the exhibition\u2019s founding in 1986.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens next<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>South Africa\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":34418,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"hostex,Hospitality industry","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"South Africa\u2019s 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.","footnotes":""},"categories":[54],"tags":[977,11293],"class_list":{"0":"post-34412","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-events","8":"tag-gauteng-events","9":"tag-upcoming-events"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34412","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34412"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34412\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":34419,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34412\/revisions\/34419"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34418"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34412"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34412"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34412"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}