Even as the country faces a slowing economy and multiple industries are beset by staffing and regulatory challenges, the resilient and eternally optimistic hospitality industry has shown it is ready and willing to get back on track while shrugging off the daily difficulties of running a successful business.
The recently concluded Fine Food New Zealand event attracted record numbers of exhibitors and delegates, contributing to an event that was not only a stunning success, but a litmus test for a resurgent hospitality industry determined to make the most of every available opportunity.
The three-day trade-only event took place in late June at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland, drawing 6,405 unique attendees – an increase of 6.5 per cent over the number of delegates who attended 2021’s event.
“Fantastic result, we had 288 exhibitors offering the widest range of products, services, produce, innovations, and a ton more,” says event manager Deb Haimes.
“The number of vendors was well up on the last event, and the combination of more to see delivered an amazing experience for every delegate.”
Exhibitors have expressed their satisfaction with Fine Food New Zealand 2023, too.
Early feedback is universally positive, with vendors experiencing keen interest and strong demand for their products and services.
Among them is website design company Grace & James Media; websites, considered essential to every organisation, indicate new business activity, or businesses looking to refresh and reignite their brands.
“I cannot express enough how thrilled I am with my experience at Fine Food NZ,” says the company’s director.
“Our decision to participate and set up a booth was truly transformative for our business, and its impact exceeded all our expectations.”
Authentic Spanish-style charcuterie and sausage producer Martinex, meanwhile, described its experience as delivering an excellent Return on Investment.
“Meeting key decision makers and introducing your brand to a large group of food service professionals = a great result,” its representative says.
With any exhibition, the quality of delegates matters to exhibitors.
Fine Food New Zealand is ‘trade-only’ by design, so only those in food service, hospitality, beverage, and related industries are in attendance. This consistently delivers the results vendors seek: expanding market reach, opening new avenues to market, and above all, driving sales of great products and services.
That’s confirmed by exhibitor Cabra Interiors/Shelving Services, who says: “Great event, really good quality of visitors who really came to purchase.”
The sentiment is echoed by Wild Chef, who says” “Extremely well organised. Great opportunity to reconnect with current distributor teams together with new and key customers.”
In addition to regular features such as Artisan Alley (showcasing small batch and traditionally produced goods), Plant Base (vegetarian, vegan and everything else plant-derived), The Best Cellar and Liquid Alliance (dealing in beverages of all sorts), popular show attractions also included the New Product Showcase, NZ Chef’s competitions and Baking New Zealand’s Innovation Kitchen.
Deb says the range of exhibitors and carefully designed features contribute to an engaging and rewarding experience for vendors and delegates alike.
“We’ve created a rounded experience which has helped make the most of everyone’s time, helping every individual meet their personal objectives.”
The event also serves as an opportunity for learning and skills development with the popular Seminar Series joined for the first time in 2023 by Liquid Alliance Masterclass workshops showcasing the creative use of liquor in bars or restaurants.
Deb says the response to the event has surpassed expectations and the litmus test has come back with the right result. “It’s been a tough and truly unprecedented time for the industry. But Kiwi hospitality has shown its resilience once again, with the indomitable Kiwi spirit shining through. We’re looking forward to some productive years before we return in 2025.”
The next Fine Food New Zealand is scheduled for June 29-July 1, 2025.
