HORECA 2016 attracts more than 15,000 visitors to BIEL exhibition center, Beirut
HORECA, the annual meeting place for the hospitality and foodservice industries, closed its doors on April 8 2016, rounding off a spectacular four days at Beirut’s BIEL exhibition center. Spotlighting the latest innovations, trends and developments in the hospitality and foodservice sectors, the event was hailed a resounding success, bringing together more than 40 local and international experts in more than 25 daily competitions, events, workshops and forums. The rich program was enjoyed by more than 15,000 local, regional and international visitors, who took advantage of networking opportunities and new business prospects.
More than 385 exhibitors from countries including Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Czech Republic, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Nigeria, Turkey and the UAE showcased the latest in catering equipment, packaging and labeling, interior design, hygiene, technology, pastry and bakery, food, beverage, coffee and tea, consultancy, recruitment and education. Indeed, the show brought in excess of 2,000 brands into the spotlight.
HORECA’s 23rd edition, opened on April 5 under the theme “Beirut Beats“, an urban culinary journey. Held under the patronage of Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism H.E. Mr. Michel Pharaon, the event honored Lebanese culture and the nation’s innumerable flavors by promoting five of its iconic tastes, including arak and knefeh, to the world.
Throughout the course of the four-day show, HORECA hosted a number of exciting new events including the Annual Hospitality Forum which featured an impressive lineup of high caliber speakers tackling tough topics in hospitality. Elsewhere, the Hospitality Salon Culinaire and Junior Chef Competition boasted even more action with additional competitions, providing a platform for young talents and professionals to showcase their skills. HORECA’s other events; the Lebanese Barista Competition, the Lebanese Bartenders Competition, the Bed Making Competition, the Art of Service Competition, Atelier Gourmand, the Wine Lab, the National Extra Virgin Olive Oil Contest and Chairmania also rewarded creativity, talent and excellence across the industries.
HORECA 2016 further marked an important partnership with Les Restaurants du Coeur. A portion of ticket sales went towards the charity, as well as some exhibitors offering their products to those in need.
Speaking of the success of the 2016 edition, HORECA’s project manager Randa Pharaon said, “The growth in attendance and exhibits year after year and the realization of our newest offerings proves that HORECA is a one-of-a kind event, gathering leaders together to network and knowledge-share in order to enrich the hospitality and foodservice communities. We are committed to providing what the industry needs and build on our past successes.”
HORECA 2017 takes place from 4 to 7 April at BIEL exhibition center, Beirut. Horecashow.com