Interview with Josep Alcaraz, director of Gastronomic Forum Barcelona: “At Gastronomic Forum Barcelona, the decisive thing is the quality of the product on display”
Gastronomic Forum Barcelona faces its 2026 edition in a context of growth and consolidation. The show, which will be held from 2 to 4 November for the first time at Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue, brings together more than 450 exhibiting companies and reinforces its role as the great professional meeting point for the hospitality, gastronomy and foodservice industries.
The 2026 edition represents a new step in the evolution of the show. What is the current state of Gastronomic Forum Barcelona in the sector?
Without a doubt, we are experiencing the best moment in the history of Gastronomic Forum Barcelona. In line with the pace of space contracting, this year we will surpass all previous editions, with the presence of more than 450 leading exhibiting companies in the hospitality, gastronomy and foodservice sectors, in 14,500 m², which will mean a 12% growth in exhibition space compared to the last edition. We will have both large manufacturing and distribution companies and more than 250 small producers, many of them grouped in collective stands. The offer is very wide and ranges from gastronomic products to technology, kitchenware and machinery: in short, everything a restaurateur needs for their business.
One of the great differential values is that at Gastronomic Forum Barcelona large companies have the same relevance as small producers. Here, regardless of the length of the stand, the important thing is to have a quality product. For this reason, it is an obligatory point of reference for restaurateurs and gourmet shops looking for the best products.
The move to the Gran Via venue marks a new stage for Gastronomic Forum Barcelona. What opportunities does this change of location entail?
The move is a great opportunity to continue growing. Hall 1 of the Gran Via venue is a modern and high-capacity space that significantly improves the exhibition experience, optimises visitor flows and boosts the visibility of brands. In addition, the logistical advantages in access, assembly and services will have a direct impact on the benefit of exhibitors and will contribute to strengthening the professionalism of the visitor. We are convinced that this change will allow us to make a qualitative leap in every way.
What profile of professional visitor does Gastronomic Forum Barcelona seek to attract and what differential value do you find in the show?
Gastronomic Forum Barcelona is aimed at all those professionals who seek to anticipate the changes that gastronomy and foodservice are experiencing. We are especially interested in attracting restaurateurs, hoteliers, distributors, specialised shops and companies that want to discover new business opportunities, identify trends and find solutions to grow their projects.
The main differential value of the show is that it combines business, knowledge and inspiration in the same space. On the one hand, it brings together a very specialised exhibition offer with products, services and equipment for the restaurant and gastronomy sectors. On the other hand, it offers a unique programme of activities, with the participation of both established figures and new generations of chefs, which allows you to learn first-hand about the trends, business models and ideas that are shaping the future of the sector.
The event combines exposure, content and networking. How is this model articulated to generate a real return for companies and professionals?
The loyalty, edition after edition, of both exhibitors and visitors is our best letter of introduction. It is the clearest proof of the return that Gastronomic Forum Barcelona offers to all its audiences. We work in great detail on the balance between an attractive exhibition offer and activity areas with very powerful content, so that exhibitors obtain an immediate return on their investment and visitors live a complete experience with high professional value.
What role does Gastronomic Forum Barcelona play as a platform for connecting brands, products, talent and the market?
An absolutely fundamental role. Many exhibitors and visitors participate in other events in the sector, but when they arrive at Gastronomic Forum Barcelona they quickly perceive our main differential value: the real proximity to the profession. Here relationships are direct, contact with customers and suppliers is easier and the atmosphere favours quality conversations and business opportunities that are often difficult to generate in other trade fair formats.
That is why we encourage exhibitors to prepare their participation actively, showing their offer in an attractive way and generating experiences that facilitate interaction with visitors. At the same time, we recommend that professionals plan their route to make the most of the exhibition offer and activities, without giving up the discovery of new proposals. In short, our goal is for the sector to meet, share experiences and generate business in a close, relaxed environment of authentic professional complicity.
Barcelona, September 15th of 2026