Now in its 31st edition, the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event is preparing to welcome global industry leaders. It promises its most ambitious showcase to date.
Widely recognized as the first major gathering on the international F&B calendar, Gulfood brings together manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, distributors, innovators, and policymakers from 195 countries. The event continues to play a crucial role in shaping global food trade. It strengthens international partnerships and sets the tone for emerging trends across the sector.
The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone as Gulfood expands across two mega venues for the first time. This enlarged footprint reflects the event’s growing influence and the surging demand. There is high-impact sourcing, innovation, and business networking opportunities. More than 8,500 exhibitors are confirmed to participate, showcasing over 1.5 million products spanning every major category within the global food ecosystem.
Adding to its scale, the upcoming edition introduces four new sectors designed to meet evolving industry needs and spotlight next-generation opportunities. Gulfood Logistics will focus on supply chain efficiency and smart distribution solutions. Meanwhile, Gulfood Fresh will highlight the fast-growing market for fresh produce. Gulfood Startups will offer a dedicated space for breakthrough concepts and emerging entrepreneurs. Additionally, Gulfood Grocery Trade will bring a stronger focus on retail, mass distribution, and consumer goods.
With its expanded platform, new sector launches, and global participation, Gulfood 2026 aims to deliver the most comprehensive marketplace for sourcing, partnerships, and future-ready food systems. As the F&B world prepares for another year of rapid transformation, the event stands positioned. It will influence the direction, innovation, and opportunity shaping the industry in 2026 and beyond.
gulfood.com
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About author
Rita Ghantous
Rita Ghantous is a hospitality aficionado and a passionate writer with over 9 years’ experience in journalism and 5 years experience in the hospitality sector. Her passion for the performance arts and writing, started early. At 10 years old she was praised for her solo performance of the Beatles song “All My Love” accompanied by a guitarist, and was approached by a French talent scout during her school play. However, her love for writing was stronger. Fresh out of school, she became a freelance journalist for Noun Magazine and was awarded the Silver Award Cup for Outstanding Poetry, by The International Library of Poetry (Washington DC). She studied Business Management and earned a Masters degree from Saint Joseph University (USJ), her thesis was published in the Proche-Orient, Études en Management book. She then pursued a career in the hospitality industry but didn’t give up writing, that is why she launched the Four Points by Sheraton Le Verdun Newsletter. Her love for the industry and journalism led her to Hospitality Services - the organizers of the HORECA trade show in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Jordan, as well as Salon Du Chocolat, Beirut Cooking Festival, Whisky Live and other regional shows. She is currently the Publications Executive of Hospitality News Middle East, Taste & Flavors and Lebanon Traveler. It is with ultimate devotion for her magazines that she demonstrates her hospitality savoir-faire.
