How to Prepare to Exhibit at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026: Tips for Exhibitors
The National Restaurant Association Show 2026 is set to be a pivotal event for the foodservice industry, offering exhibitors an unparalleled platform to showcase their products and services. To make the most of this opportunity, thorough preparation is essential.
About the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
The National Restaurant Association Show is the largest annual gathering of foodservice professionals in the Western Hemisphere. Scheduled for May 16–19, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, the Show brings together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals to explore the latest trends, products, and solutions in the foodservice sector.
National Restaurant Association Show 2026 Facts and Statistics:
- Date: May 16–19, 2026
- Venue: McCormick Place
- City/State: Chicago, Illinois
- Estimated Number of Exhibitors: Over 2,000 exhibitors
- Expected Attendance: Over 35,000 decision-making operators, dealers, and distributors
About the National Restaurant Association
The National Restaurant Association is the largest foodservice trade association in the world. Advocating on behalf of over 500,000 restaurant businesses, the mission of the association is to advance and protect the restaurant and food service industry by working with state associations, industry leaders, and suppliers. The association was founded in 1919 and has been going strong for over 100 years, achieving major milestones like the Kids LiveWell initiative and the Dine for America relief.
Who Attends the National Restaurant Association Show?
The Show attracts a diverse group of attendees, including:
- Restaurant and bar owners
- Chain representatives
- Hospitality professionals
- Distributors
- Importers and wholesalers
These professionals seek to discover new products, learn from expert-led sessions, and make valuable industry connections.
How to Exhibit at the National Restaurant Association Show?
To become an exhibitor, visit the official website’s exhibitor section, where you’ll find detailed information on booth options, pricing, and the application process.
As you prepare to exhibit at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026, here are some frequently asked questions to assist in your planning:
- What is the booth pricing schedule?
- A 50% deposit is required to secure your exhibit space, due within 48 hours of booking. The remaining balance is due by February 2, 2026. Additionally, there is a $325 fee per corner.
- Early 2026 rates are $47 per sq. ft. for spaces ≥800 sq.ft. and $48 for smaller booths (through December 31, 2025). Booth rates will increase after this date.
- What is included in a booth?
- 8′ back draping plus two 33″ high draped side rails (except for islands and peninsulas).
- Peninsulas are set with 5′ of 33″ drape, 10′ of 8′ drape, and 5′ of 33″ drape. Island booths receive no drape from show services.
- A sign with the company name and booth number for 100 sq ft exhibitors. Larger booths must submit requests through the Freeman Service Kit.
- General overhead lighting.
- Sanitary dishwashing facilities.
- Complimentary badges: Five for the first 100 square feet of space purchased, and three for each additional 100 square feet.
- Customer Invites: Free “customer invite” badges to distribute to operator clients, with allotment based on total square feet (additional badges can be purchased once the allotment is used).
- Listings in “The Show To Go” (Official Online Directory of the Show).
- What are the requirements to exhibit in a specific Pavilion?
- The Beverage Room: Ideal for ingredients, goods, and services appealing to bar program buyers (beer, wine, spirits, bar specialty equipment, cocktail ingredients, mixers, garnishes, drinkware, bar technology, etc.). At least 50% of products showcased must meet the pavilion criteria.
- Organic & Natural Pavilion: Features products and vendors leading the charge in the growing organic and natural food industry. Ideal for food and beverage producers and manufacturers of organic and/or natural products. At least 50% of products must qualify as organic/natural.
- Emerging Brands Pavilion: Designed for new companies with new food and beverage items, new equipment and supplies, new technology, etc. Companies must have been in operation for no more than three years.
- TECH Pavilion: Showcases leading products, tools, and processes that can help make your business more modern, efficient, and profitable. Ideal for technology products and solutions appropriate for the foodservice and hospitality industry. At least 50% of products must be technology-related.
- What is “The Show To Go”?
- “The Show To Go” is the official online platform and mobile app that houses your company profile and products, the official exhibitor directory, floorplan, education lineup, planner, and more. It offers year-round exposure to thousands of foodservice industry professionals, including those unable to attend the Show in person.
Why Exhibit at the National Restaurant Association Show?
Exhibiting at the Show provides an opportunity to:
- Launch new products
- Generate leads
- Build customer relationships
- Connect with major industry stakeholders
With over 35,000 decision-making operators, dealers, and distributors in attendance, the Show offers unmatched exposure to key players in the foodservice industry.
Educational Sessions and Workshops
The National Restaurant Association Show offers comprehensive educational tracks and sessions to further your learning and help your business succeed. The 2026 program features 30 operator-led Expo+Education sessions across six key tracks:
- Culinary Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with sessions exploring menu trends, emerging flavors, dietary preferences, and innovative food and beverage concepts that are shaping the future of foodservice.
- Marketing Matters: Learn strategies to effectively promote your restaurant and build your brand in today’s competitive marketplace.
- Operations Solutions: Master essential techniques for improving efficiency, controlling costs, and enhancing customer experience without sacrificing quality.
- Technology Strategies: Gain insights into leveraging AI, making smart tech investments, and implementing digital solutions to modernize your operations.
- Trends in Adult Beverage: Explore innovations in beer, wine, and spirits, along with emerging trends in cocktail programs and beverage service.
- Workforce Management: Develop skills for hiring, retention, diversity and inclusion, and building strong teams in today’s challenging labor market.
Special Features and Events
FABI Awards
The FABI Awards continue to recognize outstanding food and beverage products that demonstrate excellence in taste, creativity, and market impact. These awards celebrate the most forward-thinking and creative new tastes that are driving trends in the industry. The “FABI Favorites” spotlight program returns for its second year, highlighting the top picks among awardees.
Celebrity Chef & Mixology Demos
The 2026 show will feature an impressive lineup of culinary talent and mixology demonstrations. Celebrity chef and TV personality Carla Hall is confirmed as a keynote speaker. Additional chef and mixologist demonstration lineups will be released closer to the Show, featuring master mixologists sharing the latest techniques and trends at The Beverage Room stage.
Special Exhibits & Pavilions
The trade floor is strategically organized by top trends, products, and emerging technologies:
- A Taste of the States: Showcases trending American food products from U.S. producers
- The Beverage Room: A dedicated beverage pavilion with master mixologists and beverage program suppliers
- Global Food Expo: Features international cuisine, ingredients, and products from countries around the world
- Organic & Natural Pavilion: Highlights sustainable and natural food products
- TECH Pavilion: Features cutting-edge products and tools to improve profits and efficiency
- Emerging Brands Pavilion: Spotlights up-and-coming companies and products from businesses three years old or less
- Kitchen Innovations Showroom: Displays the latest equipment and innovations
- Discovery Theater: On-floor stage for practical operational and management sessions
- Innovation Theater: On-floor stage for new product and innovation showcases
- The Culinary Experience: On-floor kitchen/demo stage where celebrated chefs cook and discuss food trends
Preparing to Exhibit at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
To ensure a successful exhibition experience:
- Set Clear Goals: Determine what you aim to achieve, such as the number of leads to generate or products to showcase.
- Do Your Research: Identify sessions and events that align with your target audience to maximize engagement.
- Budget and Register for Your Space: Understand the specifics of your booth location, included amenities, and surrounding exhibitors. Remember that early pricing (through December 31, 2025) offers the best rates.
- Plan Your Exhibit: Tailor your booth to attract your desired audience, focusing on relevant products and demonstrations.
- Advertise Well in Advance: Promote your participation through social media, press releases, and email campaigns to build anticipation.
Tips for Exhibiting at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026
- Engage on Social Media: Share updates and behind-the-scenes content to generate interest.
- Draw the Crowd: Use interactive displays or contests to attract visitors to your booth.
- Bring Promotional Materials: Have ample brochures, business cards, and flyers to distribute.
- Keep Staff at Your Booth: Ensure your booth is always manned to engage with attendees.
- Follow Up With Attendees: After the Show, reach out to leads to maintain connections and foster relationships.
For more tips, check out our Trade Show Preparation Guide to learn how to position your business for success.
Planning on Exhibiting at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026?
With so many foodservice professionals and vendors, there’s no better place to network in the industry than at the National Restaurant Association Show 2026. This event not only provides endless opportunities for networking and business relationships but also features some of the top educational sessions in the field.
If you’re planning to attend, ensure you make the most of your experience and investment with a stunning booth design that showcases your brand. At Xibit Solutions, we specialize in creating a professional booth experience from start to finish, including show displays and logistics, to ensure you make a lasting impression. No matter your budget or needs, we’ll help you make your mark on the National Restaurant Association Show with customized booth designs and graphics.
Contact Xibit Solutions today to learn more about our trade show booth design services and see what we can do to make the National Restaurant Association Show 2026 a success.
