May 22–25, 2027
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL
Packaging, Smallwares & Operational Essentials
Essential Solutions for Smarter Operations
Every successful foodservice operation relies on the products that keep daily operations running smoothly. From packaging and food storage to kitchen tools, sanitation products and operational essentials, today’s buyers are investing in solutions that improve efficiency, support off-premise dining and simplify back-of-house operations.
The National Restaurant Association Show connects suppliers with restaurant operators actively looking for practical, high-performing products that help reduce costs, streamline workflows and deliver a better guest experience.
Category Insights
Behind every successful foodservice operation are the essential products that keep businesses running efficiently. Buyers visit this category to source packaging, kitchen tools, storage solutions and operational supplies that improve workflow while supporting takeout, delivery and day-to-day operations.
Featured Products & Solutions
Showcase products including:
- Food Packaging
- Takeout Containers
- Delivery Packaging
- Compostable Packaging
- Smallwares
- Kitchen Utensils
- Food Storage
- Shelving
- Cleaning Supplies
- Janitorial Products
- Disposable Gloves
- Paper Products
- Plasticware
- Aluminum Foil
- Wraps
- Labels
- Portion Control
- Sanitation Products
Who You’ll Meet
Connect with restaurant operators, commissaries, QSR brands, distributors and operations leaders.
Industry Trends Driving Demand
As off-premise dining grows, buyers are seeking products that improve efficiency, sustainability and day-to-day operations.
Current areas of interest include:
- Compostable and recyclable packaging
- Delivery and takeout optimization
- Food safety and sanitation
- Waste reduction initiatives
- Space-saving storage solutions
- Operational efficiency tools
- Back-of-house organization
- Eco-conscious operational products
Why Exhibit
Put your operational solutions in front of buyers improving takeout, delivery and back-of-house efficiency.
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
Success Opportunities
Maximize your impact before, during and after the Show by:
- Launching sustainable packaging solutions
- Demonstrating operational efficiencies
- Meeting takeout and delivery operators
- Connecting with restaurant chains
- Building supplier relationships
- Showcasing back-of-house innovations
- Generating qualified leads
- Positioning your brand as an operational partner
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?
Manufacturers and suppliers of food packaging, takeout containers, compostables, kitchen tools, cleaning products and operational supplies.
Why are buyers interested in this category?
Operators continue to invest in products that improve efficiency, support takeout and delivery, and simplify daily operations.
Who will I meet?
Restaurant operators, commissaries, distributors, convenience stores and multi-unit chains.
Can sustainable packaging companies exhibit?
Yes. Buyers are actively seeking environmentally responsible packaging and operational solutions.
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.
