NI companies stirring up new business at CATEX 2017

22 Northern Irish companies will join more than 250 exhibitors from the foodservice and hospitality industries at CATEX 2017 – which opens its doors on Tuesday 21st February in Dublin.

Running until Thursday 23rd February 2017 at the RDS Simmonscourt, over 10,000 visitors are expected to attend CATEX to seek out new products, technology and services in the foodservice industry.

With the 22 NI companies exhibiting over almost 25% of all available floor space at CATEX, the presence of these companies represents a commitment to growing their business in the foodservice and hospitality sectors in Ireland and building on the successes of the 2016 Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink.

Two of CATEX’s biggest exhibitors this year are Lynas Foodservice Ltd. and Henderson Foodservice Ltd, who between them will occupy over 400 sq. metres of exhibitor space.

Commenting on securing it’s biggest-ever stand at CATEX, Andrew Lynas, managing director of Lynas Foodservice, says: “CATEX has been instrumental in helping Lynas Foodservice to grow its customer base across Ireland. Since our first show in 2009, we’ve increased our stand space year on year, as we can clearly see the return on our investment, both at the show and in the months following CATEX.

“With our new branding and location at the event, we’re excited for CATEX 2017, and look forward to availing of the wealth of opportunities that the show delivers for our business.”

Damien Barrett, managing director Henderson Foodservice, comments: “We’re delighted to be exhibiting again at CATEX 2017. This year, we’re celebrating our 50th year in business and have brought all of our experience and expertise to this one place, to show visitors how we can have a positive impact on their business.

“With experts in coffee through to fresh meat, we have everything covered. This is our largest investment in a show to date, which mirrors our commitment to the ROI market. We are growing strongly and are stepping up our commitment to our customers across Ireland with increased resources on the ground and also in our marketing and IT teams.”

CATEX, supported by Bunzl and Calor, has firmly cemented its reputation as the ultimate destination for the hospitality and foodservice industry.

Taking place every two years, space at CATEX is of huge importance to many of Ireland and Northern Ireland’s largest companies and artisan producers.

Three days at the show can lead to many new contacts and significant new business for the years ahead.

The show will play host to a range of events over the three days from Chef Masterclasses to Industry Insights.

CATEX is also home to the Irish Barista Championships, the Irish Cocktail Championships and features three days of sizzling competitions including the highly sought-after Chef of the Year.