Overview of the Unified Foodservice Expo

The Unified Foodservice Expo is one of the most impactful regional trade events in the United States, specifically catering to the foodservice and hospitality industries. Held at various regional locations across the country, the expo attracts a wide spectrum of professionals—ranging from restaurant owners and culinary experts to equipment manufacturers, food distributors, and hospitality service providers. It serves as a vital platform for innovation, networking, and business development in the dynamic world of foodservice.

This regional event is strategically designed to cater to the local needs of different foodservice markets across the U.S., making it highly accessible for small to mid-sized businesses that may not attend national or international shows. Whether you are a start-up, an established chain, or a supplier in the foodservice sector, the Unified Foodservice Expo offers an unmatched opportunity to grow, connect, and stay updated.

Venues and rotating locations

The Unified Foodservice Expo is held at different regional locations throughout the year to better serve the geographical diversity of the foodservice industry. Common host cities include:

• Chicago, Illinois
• Dallas, Texas
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Orlando, Florida
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Minneapolis, Minnesota

Each city provides a central and convenient access point for local and regional businesses, typically held in major convention centers or exhibition halls with advanced facilities.

Some of the recent venues have included:

• Dallas Market Center, TX
• Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL
• Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago, IL

Dates and timings

As a rotating regional expo, the dates vary based on the location. However, each city typically hosts the event once per year, most often between February and October. Each expo generally runs for two to three days, and the typical hours are:

• Day 1: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Day 2: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Day 3 (if applicable): 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Attendees are advised to visit the official event website to confirm dates for the expo in their desired region.

Product categories showcased

The Unified Foodservice Expo features an extensive range of product categories relevant to foodservice operations. This includes:

• Commercial kitchen equipment
• Restaurant technology and POS systems
• Food and beverage products
• Packaging solutions
• Tableware and disposables
• Janitorial and sanitation supplies
• Refrigeration and cold storage solutions
• Franchise opportunities
• Staff uniforms and branding materials

Exhibitors also frequently include manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers that support sustainability and eco-friendly operations within the foodservice industry.

Visitor profile and expected attendance

As a regional-focused event, the Unified Foodservice Expo typically draws 3,000 to 7,000 visitors depending on the location. The visitor demographic includes:

• Restaurant and café owners
• Executive chefs and kitchen managers
• Procurement officers
• Catering service providers
• Institutional foodservice managers (schools, hospitals)
• Distributors and wholesalers
• Food entrepreneurs and start-ups

These events offer a rich mix of business owners, culinary professionals, and decision-makers looking for new products, services, and technologies to enhance their operations.

Nearby hotels and accommodation

Each venue city offers a variety of hotel options in close proximity to the event. Here are a few examples based on past venues:

Dallas Market Center:

• Hilton Anatole Dallas
• Sheraton Suites Market Center Dallas
• DoubleTree by Hilton Dallas – Market Center

Orange County Convention Center, Orlando:

• Rosen Centre Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Orlando
• Hilton Orlando

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago O’Hare
• Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare Hotel & Conference Center
• Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel

Hotels near the venues usually offer special rates for expo attendees, and early booking is highly recommended due to high demand during the event period.

Registration and ticket cost

Entry to the Unified Foodservice Expo is generally free for industry professionals who register online in advance. On-site registration may incur a nominal fee ranging from $20 to $50, depending on the location and the scope of the show. Some conferences or workshops held during the expo may require a separate fee or VIP pass.

It is recommended that attendees register early to take advantage of early-bird offers and to ensure access to all available sessions.

Benefits of attending the Unified Foodservice Expo

Attending the Unified Foodservice Expo offers a wide array of benefits for foodservice professionals:

• Discover innovations: See the latest equipment, technology, and food trends shaping the industry.
• Direct supplier access: Meet face-to-face with manufacturers and suppliers offering exclusive show deals.
• Education and training: Participate in workshops and live demonstrations that cover operations, culinary techniques, compliance, and marketing strategies.
• Business networking: Build meaningful relationships with fellow professionals, industry experts, and potential collaborators.
• Regional relevance: The regional nature of the expo ensures a local focus, making it easier to source suppliers and partners aligned with your market needs.

Event highlights and special features

Some additional features that make the Unified Foodservice Expo stand out include:

• Live chef demonstrations and tasting sessions
• Panel discussions with industry leaders
• Trend forecasting sessions covering sustainability, plant-based options, and digital transformation
• Startup showcase zones for emerging brands and entrepreneurs
• Vendor discounts and exclusive offers available only to attendees

Who should exhibit?

The expo is an ideal platform for:

• Equipment manufacturers
• Food and beverage brands
• Service providers in logistics, training, or marketing
• Kitchen design and consulting firms
• Franchise systems looking for partners

Exhibitors gain direct access to a high-quality audience of decision-makers who are actively seeking solutions and partnerships.

Why the Unified Foodservice Expo matters

The foodservice industry continues to evolve rapidly, especially in the face of changing consumer behaviors, technological disruption, and increased focus on sustainability. The Unified Foodservice Expo equips attendees with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to stay ahead in this competitive landscape. Its regional approach ensures high accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and relevance to specific markets, making it an essential calendar event for anyone serious about foodservice.