Last chance for industry to experience Hostex 2026 as doors close today | The Planner

The final day of Hostex 2026 is in full swing at the Sandton Convention Centre, and the food, drink and hospitality industry still has a full afternoon of inspiration, innovation and networking ahead.

With the show closing at 16:30 today, this is the last chance for industry professionals to experience what has been one of the most energetic Hostex editions yet. Across the exhibition floor, exhibitors have pulled out all the stops to launch new products, create standout stands, and offer tastings, demonstrations and show specials that reward visitors who come ready to explore. From equipment and ingredients to technology and services, Hostex remains the place where buyers can see, touch and taste what’s new across the hospitality value chain.

On today’s programme, visitors can still catch highlights across the show’s key feature areas. In the SA Chefs Village, the action continues with culinary demonstrations and the high-energy Iron Chef: Limited Time challenge, followed later this afternoon by Ready Steady Cook: Generation Showdown – Then vs Now and seafood showcases that celebrate the creativity of South Africa’s culinary talent.

The Industry Hub powered by Bidfood continues to tackle the business of hospitality with conversations on the real cost of food waste, building scale-ready hospitality businesses, and sourcing locally without operational risk – practical insights designed to help operators grow stronger in a changing market.

Meanwhile, coffee professionals and enthusiasts can head to the SCASA Coffee Stage for brand spotlights, cuppings, barista sessions and masterclasses, showcasing the expertise and passion driving South Africa’s speciality coffee scene.

This afternoon also features the final SA Food Stories demonstration with chef and author Zanele van Zyl.

For those who have not yet made it to the show, the message from organisers is simple: this is your last chance. Hostex only returns every two years, and with thousands of products, ideas and industry connections under one roof, today’s final hours offer a valuable opportunity to catch up on what’s shaping the future of hospitality in South Africa.

Hostex 2026 closes at 16:30 today at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Pre-register at www.hostex.co.za to avoid the queues and attend Hostex 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre from 8 to 10 March. Entry is free for trade visitors. No under 18s or prams are permitted.

Follow Hostex on Facebook (@hostexza), Instagram (@hostex_sa) and LinkedIn (@hostex-sa) for updates.