May 16–19, 2026
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL
Education
Discover innovative solutions, fresh perspectives, and future-forward ideas through operator-led education. Available exclusively for Expo + Education badge holders, the Show’s education program provides a focused learning experience for growth-minded attendees.
What’s included with your Expo + Education badge
Want the complete Show experience? Here’s what the Expo + Education badge offers:
- Exhibit Hall Access
- On-Floor Theaters (including live demos)
- Keynote & Featured Sessions
PLUS
- 30 Operator-led sessions covering critical industry topics across six tracks
- Exclusive networking with peers and experts
- On-demand session recordings & presentation materials
The Expo + Education program is hosted in a distraction-free environment off the Show floor, creating an ideal atmosphere for uninterrupted learning and networking. Sessions are scheduled in 2-hour blocks Saturday through Monday, allowing attendees the perfect balance between attending sessions and exploring the tradeshow floor.
Expo + Education: the recipe for foodservice success
- Proven strategies to boost business
- Innovative ideas and fresh solutions to your biggest challenges
- Practical, actionable takeaways that you can implement immediately
- First-hand perspectives from successful operators and industry leaders
- Opportunity to connect one-on-one with peers and experts
Exclusive Networking
Expo + Education badge holders will have the unique opportunity to connect directly with their peers and industry experts to ask questions, share advice and gain behind-the-scenes insights from those who are facing similar challenges. Explore new business-boosting solutions with some of the brightest minds in the industry while fostering valuable connections to propel you forward.
What Attendees have to say
Explore Tracks and Topics
Explore By Track
Culinary Insights
Through culinary-focused education, explore the latest in food and beverage trends, menu insights and optimizations to boost sales, and more.
- Strategic menu innovation
- Consumer health trends and menu adaptations
- Flavor and global menu trends
- AI and technology’s impact on culinary
- Maximizing menu profitability
Marketing Matters
Learn new consumer trends, insights and engagement strategies to successfully market your brand and connect with today’s evolving consumer.
- Social media strategies & trends
- Influencer marketing
- Integrating AI & predictive technology into marketing
- Loyalty programs & customer retention strategies
- Value communication & brand positioning
- Marketing channel optimization
Operations Solutions
Find strategies to improve operational efficiencies, maximize ROI, and navigate new business realities.
- Integrating AI and automation into operations
- Operational efficiencies: doing more with less
- Cost control & financial management
- Competitive positioning & customer experience
- Supply chain management & impact mitigation
- Navigating regulatory changes
Technology Strategies
Discover how the power of technology can improve your business.
- AI implementation and best practices
- Strategic technology investment
- Selecting the right tech vendor
- Customer data & digital channels
- Delivery & drive-thru optimization
- Balancing tech & human-centric hospitality
Trends in Adult Beverage
From new revenue opportunities to what’s trending in beer, wine and spirits, find business insights to maximize your beverage program.
- Non-alcoholic beverage innovations
- Flavor and ingredient trends
- Adult beverage operations and sales strategies
- Connecting with Gen-Z consumers
- Cannabis and alternative adult beverages
Workforce Management
Gain tools to create a stronger workforce. Learn how to navigate the new labor landscape, bolster hiring, retention and training efforts, and prioritize DEI and wellness.
- Technology & automation in workforce management
- Navigating the impact of immigration policy
- Employee retention & engagement
- Training & development
- Employee wellness
