Industry celebrates the successful return of CATEX

​On 21st – 23rd February 2023, thousands of key buyers in the global food & drink industry descended on CATEX at the RDS, Dublin for three days of product tasting, networking, learning and doing business. 

With footfall up by over 25%, exhibitors reporting that substantial business was done and overwhelming positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike, CATEX really did serve up a show that will benefit all of those involved in the months and years ahead.

Visitors from major retailers, wholesalers, distributors, caterers and hospitality businesses including BWG Foodservice, Frylite, Hendersons Foodservice, Hugh Jordan, Lynas, Middleton Foods, Stephens Catering Equipment and Trinity Purchasing used the show to gain vital industry insights and to discover new products to meet customer demand for 2023 and beyond. 

Organised by the Irish Foodservice Suppliers Alliance, Alan Cruite, Chairman of IFSA comments: “IFSA, alongside our industry partners, has worked hard on this show for the past two years. Our goal was to make CATEX 2023 as good as it could be and the vibrancy and atmosphere over the three days was incredible.  

“CATEX demonstrated the forward-thinking and constantly innovating global catering and hospitality sector, showcasing key developments within the sector from sustainability to new product developments. 

“It is a great event to network and build on existing relationships and develop new ones, understanding the changes and challenges faced by the sector, and drive exposures and opportunities for business at all levels." 

Exhibitor stands were both impressive and engaging, with CATEX sponsors, Calor showcasing a new 100% renewable energy solution and Bunzl McLaughlin offering up innovative business solutions and cost saving ideas. From delivering on-stand masterclasses to showcasing efficient technologies, exhibitors’ efforts to showcase their businesses in the best possible manner really added vibrancy to the event and for visitors, they got to sample the food and drink on offer, including many local companies exhibiting in the the Small Business Hib, Leo Cork North West Village and the Irish Producers Village.

During the three-day show, rising stars in the industry were identified, new champions in their field were awarded and renowned industry experts were recognised for their contribution to this diverse sector. CATEX 2023 was Ireland’s showcase for local excellence and across the three days, top awards were given to those who excelled in their fields. 

Show highpoints included the return of the prestigious Chef Ireland competitions. Taking home one of the biggest awards was David Joyce, Executive Chef at AIB who was crowned Aramark’s Chef of the Year Ireland. Attracting the crowds, the coffee championships were also back. Founder of Blind Monkey and Barista Wojciech Tysler, stirred it up to be named the Irish Barista of the Year. As Irish Barista Champion, Wojciech will go on to represent Ireland in the World Barista Championships in Greece this June. Demonstrating great skill and creativity, the National Latte Art Championships also took place at CATEX. Lucas Seng was named the winner and will go on to represent Ireland at the World Latte Art Championships which takes place during the World of Coffee event in Athens, Greece, June 21-24, 2023. 

Teaming up with ‘calculate my menu’ any excess food from across the three days was donated to various charities across Ireland. 

Elsewhere, industry insight and new ways of thinking were provided by a host of key industry players at the Chef Network area, providing visitors the unique opportunity to meet with, ask questions and gain valuable insight.  

With over 250 companies showcasing innovative products and services, visitors had a wealth of new products to see, taste and explore. With everything from sustainable food waste solutions to revolutionary new cleaning equipment, CATEX 2023 really did deliver a vast array of products under one roof. 

CATEX took place on the 21st – 23rd February 2023 at the RDS, Simmonscourt. As THE trade event for the food, drink and hospitality industry, CATEX returns in 2025! Register your interest now – www.catexexhibition.com