When Hostex 2026, the flagship hospitality trade show South Africa looks forward to each year, swings open its doors from 8 to 10 March 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre, the venue will transform into the continent’s most vibrant food and beverage expo Sandton has ever seen.
Right inside Hall 1, visitors will step into the Beverage Hub – a hands on playground where baristas, brewers, distillers and buyers can taste, talk and trade the drinks that will shape next year’s menus. From precision roasted coffee to zero proof cocktails, the Hub promises three days of inspiration you can pour directly into profit.
“South Africa’s beverage scene is evolving at speed – think craft spirits, speciality coffee, functional tonics, RTD drinks South Africa can’t get enough of, and an unstoppable wave of low and no alcohol options,” says Lerato Nako, Hostex Event Manager. “The Beverage Hub is our answer: a buzzing marketplace where brands can demo what’s next and buyers can test drive it on the spot. With 74 percent of Hostex visitors making or influencing purchasing decisions, the business case writes itself.”
.jpg)
In an industry that craves novelty and personalisation, drinks are where brands show personality – and the Beverage Hub is designed to let that personality shine through every sip.
Nako continues: “Hostex is perfectly poised to connect local innovators with the global momentum behind premium ready to drink cocktails, botanical waters and flavour first low alcohol by volume (ABV) beers – categories expected to drive the functional drinks market at over 5 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to 2028. At home, we see South Africans embracing beverage trends South Africa is setting in craft spirits, cold brew coffee and eco conscious packaging, while alcohol free beer volumes jumped 35 percent in 2024. It’s the right moment for the industry to meet, taste and make deals.”
What’s on tap in the Beverage Hub
“LiqCore is proud to raise the bar at Hostex next year! As a trusted alcohol distribution partner to leading hotel chains, we’re excited to showcase how our premium portfolio and seamless service are redefining hospitality experiences. Visit our stand and discover how we keep the industry pouring with excellence.” says Olav Rucker, co-founder Core Catering Supplies and Managing Director at Core Holdings with LiqCore, one of the first exhibitors to confirm stand space in the Beverage Hub.
Exhibit at Hostex
Stand bookings are open now. Beverage producers, distributors, hospitality equipment suppliers and service innovators can secure their spot by contacting Jacky Talling on Jacky.Talling@montgomerygroup.com or +27 73 475 2483.
Since 1986, Hostex has connected Africa’s hospitality professionals with the ideas, equipment and partners that drive the industry forward. Dubbed Hospitality Expo 2026, the 40‑year milestone edition continues to open new doors. Discover more at www.hostex.co.za or follow Hostex on Facebook @hostexza, Instagram @hostex_sa and LinkedIn @hostex‑sa.
…ends
ABOUT HOSTEX
Since its inception in 1986, HOSTEX has become a leading expo for food, drink, and hospitality professionals across Africa. The show provides an unmatched platform for industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to gather, share insights, and do business. For more information, please visit www.hostex.co.za.
.jpg)
