May 22–25, 2027
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL
Emerging Brands, Startups & Future Innovation
Where Foodservice’s Next Big Ideas Take Center Stage
Innovation is transforming every corner of foodservice, and today’s buyers are looking for the ideas, technologies and products that will define what’s next. From emerging brands and food tech startups to AI-powered solutions and breakthrough concepts, this category showcases the companies driving the future of the industry.
The National Restaurant Association Show gives innovators the opportunity to introduce their solutions to qualified buyers, build valuable partnerships and gain the visibility needed to accelerate growth.
Category Insights
Innovation starts here. Buyers visit this category to discover emerging brands, breakthrough products and disruptive technologies before they become mainstream. Whether they're looking for the next consumer trend, a first-to-market product or a cutting-edge technology partner, operators come to connect with the companies shaping the future of foodservice.
Featured Products & Solutions
Showcase products including:
- Startup Companies
- New Product Launches
- Foodservice Innovation
- AI Startups
- Robotics
- Smart Equipment
- Food Tech
- Alternative Ingredients
- Future Concepts
- Incubators
- Entrepreneurial Brands
- First-to-Market Solutions
Who You’ll Meet
Meet restaurant operators, distributors, investors, media and innovation leaders looking for the next big idea.
Industry Trends Driving Demand
Buyers are actively searching for breakthrough products and disruptive ideas that will shape the future of foodservice.
Current areas of interest include:
- Food tech innovation
- AI-powered startups
- Alternative ingredients
- Robotics and automation
- First-to-market concepts
- Sustainable innovation
- Venture-backed growth
- Emerging consumer trends
Success Opportunities
Maximize your impact before, during and after the Show by:
- Launching breakthrough products
- Meeting investors and early adopters
- Connecting with distributors and buyers
- Building strategic partnerships
- Receiving real-time market feedback
- Generating media attention
- Growing brand awareness
- Positioning your startup for long-term success
Why Exhibit
Launch breakthrough products, gain exposure and build relationships with buyers, partners and investors.
Benefits include:
- Generate high-quality sales leads
- Launch new products to an engaged audience
- Build relationships with distributors and dealers
- Increase brand visibility across the industry
- Meet qualified buyers ready to make purchasing decisions
- Receive valuable market feedback
- Create new business opportunities across multiple foodservice segments
Sponsorships Keep the Opportunities Flowing
2027 Restaurant Show sponsorships are now available, offering unmatched access to foodservice decision-makers seeking solutions and partnerships. Sponsors gain premium visibility across digital channels, educational content, and high-traffic areas, positioning your brand as an industry leader. Secure your sponsorship early to maximize ROI, build connections with qualified buyers, and stand out in the competitive foodservice market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should exhibit in this category?
Startup companies, food tech innovators, AI developers, robotics companies and businesses introducing breakthrough products.
Why are buyers interested in this category?
Operators come to discover emerging trends, innovative technologies and first-to-market products before they become mainstream.
What makes this category different from other product categories?
This category is designed for companies introducing breakthrough products, emerging technologies and innovative concepts that are shaping the future of foodservice. It gives exhibitors the opportunity to showcase what’s next while connecting with buyers actively seeking fresh ideas before they become mainstream.
What opportunities does the Show provide for startups?
Exhibiting allows startups to increase visibility, gather customer feedback, connect with distributors and meet investors, operators and industry leaders.
Ready to Put Your Products in Front of Qualified Buyers?
More than 34,000+ foodservice operators attend the National Restaurant Association Show to compare products, evaluate suppliers and make purchasing decisions. They represent every major segment of the industry—and they’re actively looking for innovations that help them improve operations, delight guests and stay ahead of the competition. Whether you provide food, equipment, technology, services or breakthrough innovations, there’s a place for your business in the industry’s largest marketplace.
Reserve your booth today for the 2027 Show and connect face-to-face with operators, dealers, distributors and decision-makers who come ready to talk to you and discover what’s next in foodservice.
