Catering Innovation Show Exceeds Expectations with Sell-Out Success
Lockhart Catering Equipment’s inaugural Catering Innovation Show has been hailed a resounding success by visitors and exhibitors alike, selling out 3,000 registrations and drawing over 1,100 attendees through the doors for a packed day of inspiration and industry connection.
Hosted at London’s Business Design Centre, the show brought together over 70 leading industry brands, and a star-studded chef lineup on the Live Theatre stage that boasted 15 Michelin stars between them. The live demos proved extremely popular, underscoring the appetite for forward-thinking ideas across the sector.
Following the busy day, Lockhart Catering Equipment made a significant contribution to charitable causes. All exclusive brand equipment showcased across the Lockhart front and back of house stands, and Live Theatre setup, was donated to ‘A Good Thing’ charity, to eliminate waste and ensure the event’s legacy continues beyond the show floor. Likewise, more than £15,000 was raised for Lockhart’s charity partner, Hospitality Action as, including the highly anticipated raffle which generated 33 lucky winners. Finally, Lockhart’s £5,000 Exclusive Brand Equipment Prize was awarded to a representative from OCS.
Mark Lombard, Managing Director at Lockhart Catering Equipment, reflected on the event’s success:
“The Catering Innovation Show was designed to put innovation at the heart of the foodservice industry – and the response has exceeded all expectations. The event truly reflected the forward-thinking spirit that defines our sector, and we’re thrilled to have received such positive feedback, and proud to have delivered a show that not only inspired but also gave back to our industry community through our charity partnerships.”
Exhibitors were enthusiastic about the event’s success:
- Joe Stockewell, Director, Caffeine: “It’s been a great show! I think that smaller shows like this allow you to have more tangible conversations and to generate better outcomes.”
- Mindy Rubin, Director, Blue Ice Machines: “Amazing day. Staff at Lockhart have been fantastic in bringing over new customers and providing good leads.”
- Phill Ellis, Active Marketing Chef, Unox: “Brilliant show! It has been great with a raft of contacts showing genuine interest, which is refreshing. There has been a good calibre of attendees, and the stage lineup has been exceptional.”
- Gareth Cromie, UK Sales Manager, Scanbox: “It has been busy most of the day. The quality of leads has been excellent. I would say it has been the best exhibition in the last year!”
- Jonathan Butler, Sales and Marketing Director, Welbilt: “Positive show. Well attended by significant key groups that were engaged and it compares well with other shows. Really enjoyed it!”
Excitement is already building for the next event, with 100 registrations already confirmed for 2026. The Catering Innovation Show will return on 5th October 2026, and promises to raise the bar even higher, firmly establishing itself as a must-attend date in the catering industry calendar.
For further information, or to register interest for the 2026 event, please visit cateringinnovationshow.co.uk
