IFEX, Northern Ireland’s flagship foodservice, hospitality retail trade event, is set take place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre from 24–26 February 2026.
IFEX has long been the go-to event for discovering new products, innovations, and services across the hospitality, foodservice, and retail trade sectors. Organised by 365 Events Ltd, the 2026 show promises to be the largest and most ambitious yet.
Skills development remains a central focus of IFEX, and the 2026 programme will continue to champion the next generation of industry professionals. Popular features such as the Salon Culinaire, competition in both Live Theatre and the Skills Hub, and the Great Taste Market will return — alongside an exciting new addition: IFEX Kitchen Live!
This dynamic feature will spotlight some of Ireland’s most celebrated chefs through live cooking demonstrations and interviews, offering visitors a unique chance to learn directly from the best in the business.
365 Events Ltd Managing Director, Toby Wand, commented: “IFEX has long played a role in supporting NI’s hospitality, foodservice and retail industries. With the closure of the Titanic Exhibition Centre, which was IFEX’s home for many years, this move to the Eikon Centre gives us a larger footprint and allows us to add significant value for both exhibitors and visitors. The extra space means we can introduce new content, competitions and welcome new exhibitors, making IFEX 2026 our most ambitious event yet.
“Skills remain at the heart of the show, and we’re proud to continue championing the exceptional talent that drives this industry forward.”
IFEX 2026 is proudly supported by key industry organisations including Hospitality Ulster, Retail NI, NI Food to Go, FSB NI, NI Hotels Federation, and the Guild of Fine Food. This industry endorsement underscores IFEX’s crucial role as a driver of sector innovation, engagement and development.
Among the confirmed exhibitors are industry leaders such as:
• Henderson Group
• Sysco
• Britvic Aqua Libra
• Meadow Vale Foods
• Smedes
• AIB Merchant Services
• Unox
• Craft Training
• Coffology Ireland
• Nic Ice
• Spice of Life
Theresa Morrissey, Group Executive Director at RUAS, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome IFEX for 2026. The Eikon Centre has been designed to host high-calibre trade events, and we’re confident the expanded space and excellent facilities will provide an outstanding platform for IFEX to continue its growth. The venue offers over 4,000 free parking spaces and strong transport links, making it ideally suited for a show of this scale.”
Interest in IFEX 2026 is already running high, with exhibitor and sponsor demand expected to surpass previous years.
For the latest updates, exhibitor info, and to register your interest, visit www.ifexexhibition.co.uk and follow @IFEX_NI on social media.
