If you’ve gotten your invite, it’s time to get going. Into its 21st edition, Food&HotelAsia (FHA) 2018 is bringing back the best of the culinary world and hospitality industry. The event is is the most extensive mega trade event of its kind in Asia and is currently running from 24 to 27 April 2018.
Being its largest exhibition to date, FHA welcomes over 3500 exhibitors from 76 nations. The exhibition spans over 100, 000 square metres across two locations- Singapore Expo Halls 1 to 10, and Suntec Singapore Levels 3, 4 and 6. Expo Hall 10 also simultaneously hosts the ProWine Asia (PWA) exhibition, featuring 270 international exhibitors, and their wines and spirits from all over the globe. Fret not about travelling — a complimentary shuttle service is provided to and fro the two venues.
Media, business and trade visitors are welcome to indulge in a vast showcase of the best foods and hospitality, and marvel at the newest equipment and solutions. Here are five reasons why you should head to this mega-event:
1. Pick up a new skill or two
With 50 complimentary workshops and masterclasses, you might just walk away with a new trick up your sleeve attending FHA. The FHA International Conference comprises five main conferences with eight sub-tracks, so you’ll find panel discussions and activities covering a whole range of topics. Whether or not you specialise in hotel and resort management or F&B operations, there will be something for you.
Even if you’re not looking into specifics, there are general talks that share insights into industry discourse and business matching- timeless skills to keep improving your business. Day One even featured a White Paper presentation detailing the game-changing industry innovations and shifting trends in consumer tastes; all you need to know to prep yourself for the challenges ahead.
2. Up your wine game
The concurrent ProWine Asia exhibition will enlighten you about the finest flavours and various technicalities, from whiskey nosing to appreciation of the craft beer process. It shines the spotlight on our local craft beer brands, alongside eye-opening seminars on Southeast Asia’s thriving viticulture. See and taste it for yourself when you encounter the debut exhibits of Asian wines from Siam Winery in Thailand and even India.
Another exciting highlight is the first-ever Level 1 Award course in Wines to make an appearance at an exhibition. Run by Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), they offer a special price for all trade visitors, so it’s a perfect introduction to getting qualified in wine basics.
3. Check out the latest tech in the market
The 3500 exhibitors vary from brand new start-ups to established names in the field, but each nonetheless bring excellence and innovation to the table. Discover new kitchen capabilities and ways to speed up your operations with the variety of solutions available.
On the Singapore Expo side of things, spot Santos’ first commercial counter-top cold press juicer. Suntec visitors also get a treat, so look out for IKC’s automated cooking systems, among many other handy gadgets.
4. Prep yourself for MasterChef Singapore
You’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the world’s budding and top culinary talents in a range of competitions that liven up show days. Something new is the first-ever Asian Gelato Cup, while other notable titles up for grabs are in the Latte Art Showdown, and especially the FHA Culinary Challenge Series. Things will wrap up on the final day of FHA, when the Battle of the Lion competition takes place between the top three national teams featuring the countries’ best chefs.
The excitement is also spilled over to PWA, where more specialised competitions are ongoing. Things you never thought could be tested will be on display, with professionals showing off their flair in speed-bottle opening.
5. Get really useful industry advice
Facing tough competition, short of ideas or just looking for some fresh change? FHA gathers the industry best in panels and masterclasses. Attend the Conference to hear their tips and strategies to transform your business, and take the chance to ask the questions you need.
FHA has an “Ask The Experts” session, so you can have a personal consultation with the pros from Foodservice Consultants Society International (FCSI). Working with DagangHalal, the Halal Connexion is also a one-stop platform for viewing and understanding all the show’s Halal products and suppliers. Grab the opportunity to find out more about Halal certification, and schedule meetings with other exhibitors you’re interested in.
With such a comprehensive list of things to accomplish, Food&HotelAsia 2018 is truly a must-visit for all trade professionals. Admission is free for visitors who have pre-registered online, while on-site admission fees are S$80. Before making your visit, download “FHA & PWA” application on your smartphone to preview the offerings and shortlist the ones that catch your eye. For more information and services, visit www.foodnhotelasia.com.
