Insights

40 B2B restaurant events you should attend in 2024

February 13, 2024

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

No industry has been affected by high inflation than the restaurants and hospitality. Food prices are higher than ever, and that’s leading to some people cutting back on nights out or choosing lower cost venues. Attending restaurant events is a great way to grapple with these challenges. Restauranteurs can learn from their peers what is working, look for ideas on how to add margins to their menus, or find new technology partners to lower costs. 

Here is a list of the best B2B restaurant conventions you should attend in 2024. To see our restaurant events 2023 list, click here.

If you can’t wait to meet Solink at a restaurant convention, please sign up for a demo today.

What is a restaurant conference?

Restaurant events are held by many different organizations, from professional convention companies to individual brands and industry groups. They are places for professionals in the restaurant industry to come together for networking, business, and camaraderie. 

What is it like at a restaurant convention?

Restaurant events are often big, loud, and busy. There is usually a full slate of keynotes, panel discussions, and speakers, a tradeshow floor, and many exhibitors host outside cocktail hours as a way to meet with peers, vendors, and suppliers in a fun and informal environment.

Why should you attend a restaurant expo?

There is a lot of value to be gained by going to restaurant events in 2024. If you are a salesperson, you can often find yourself speaking with decision makers and upper management. Those looking for new vendors, business partners, or suppliers to manage rising costs can usually make great connections. New franchising opportunities are also sometimes available.

The innovative technology on display at some booths can be fun and informative to demo, while there is something to learn at every presentation, even for veterans of the restaurant industry.

What types of restaurant events are there?

The restaurant and hospitality industry is diverse, from quick service restaurants (QSR) to full service restaurants (FSR) and single location restaurateurs to chains with >10,000 locations. With that diversity comes many different needs. Aside from a few big restaurant events, it is impossible to have everything under one roof. That’s why restaurant conventions tend to have a specific theme and focus on only one part of the food business.

Here are just two of the restaurant event themes.

Technology expos

Restaurant technology is evolving rapidly as consumers change their service demands and food preferences. Outside ordering apps, for example, have gone from non-existent to a major revenue stream in under five years. 

Large businesses are using the latest technologies to improve their customer experience, efficiency, and profitability. Small businesses are adopting the same technologies to compete on a more even playing field. 

There are many restaurant events dedicated to showing off the newest restaurant technologies, with the most famous being MURTEC.

Brand-specific conferences

Since most major restaurant chains operate under a franchising model, either entirely or in addition to corporate locations, brand conferences are popular in the restaurant industry. 

These events are hosted by the brand corporation so that all of their franchise partners can come together, learn from each other, hear from motivational speakers, and see what tools and services other franchise owners are using at their locations.

Several of the restaurant conventions mentioned below are brand-specific events.

Where are restaurant security and loss prevention conferences usually held?

Restaurant events can be found across Canada and America. However, many of the biggest restaurant conferences can be found in Las Vegas and New York City. In addition, there tend to be more restaurant conventions in warm climate destinations during the winter, for example in Florida, Arizona, Texas, and California.  

List of restaurant events in 2024

Here is a list of every restaurant event in 2024. (If you are the host of a restaurant convention and don’t see it on this list, please contact Timothy Ware, Solink’s Content Manager, to have it added.)

January
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 13-14 January

Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, ON

About: The National Franchise Show in Toronto is a premier event for exploring franchising opportunities in the restaurant industry. Toronto, known for its diverse culinary scene, hosts this event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, celebrated for its central location and state-of-the-art facilities.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 27-28 January

Where: Meadowlands Expo Center, Secaucus, NJ

About: This iteration of The National Franchise Show in Secaucus brings together restaurant franchises and entrepreneurs. Secaucus, with its proximity to the culinary hub of New York City, provides an ideal setting at the Meadowlands Expo Center, known for its spacious and versatile event space.

February
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 3-4 February

Where: Dallas Market Hall, Dallas, TX

About: The National Franchise Show in Dallas offers insights into the booming restaurant franchise industry. Dallas, renowned for its dynamic food culture, hosts this event at the Dallas Market Hall, a venue famous for its expansive exhibition spaces and convenient location.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 10-11 February

Where: RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB

About: In Winnipeg, The National Franchise Show focuses on connecting restaurateurs with franchise opportunities. Winnipeg, celebrated for its growing culinary scene, hosts this event at the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg, known for its modern amenities and central location in the city.

Event: Solink Secure Summit

When: 12-14 February

Where: Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale, AZ

About: Solink is back for a second time with an event dedicated to all of our customers. Guests will learn a great deal from top notch speakers with decades of experience in asset protection and loss prevention, operations management, sales, and IT transformation.

March
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 2-3 March

Where: Dulles Expo Center, Washington, D.C.

About: The National Franchise Show at the Dulles Expo Center provides a platform for exploring restaurant franchise opportunities in the nation’s capital. Washington, D.C., known for its diverse culinary landscape, hosts this event in a venue celebrated for its accessibility and versatility.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 2-3 March

Where: Halifax Convention Centre, Halifax, NS

About: This edition of The National Franchise Show in Halifax connects entrepreneurs with leading restaurant franchises. Halifax, with its rich maritime heritage and growing food scene, provides an ideal setting at the Halifax Convention Centre, known for its modern design and waterfront location.

Event: International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York

When: 3-5 March

Where: Javits Center, NYC, NY

About: The International Restaurant & Foodservice Show in New York City is a major event for culinary professionals. NYC, a global culinary capital, hosts this event at the Javits Center, renowned for its large-scale, state-of-the-art facilities.

Event: CoffeeFest

When: 3-5 March

Where: Javits Center, NYC, NY

About: CoffeeFest in New York City is a key event for coffee and café industry professionals, offering insights into the latest trends and products. Held at the Javits Center, this event capitalizes on NYC’s vibrant coffee culture and the venue’s expansive exhibition spaces.

Event: MURTEC

When: 11-13 March

Where: Paris Hotel, LV, NV

About: MURTEC in Las Vegas focuses on restaurant technology, bringing together industry leaders and innovators. Las Vegas, known for its dynamic hospitality scene, hosts this event at the Paris Hotel, a venue famous for its elegant ambiance and excellent facilities.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 16-17 March

Where: Miami Airport Convention Center, Miami, FL

About: The National Franchise Show in Miami offers a gateway to the thriving restaurant franchise market in South Florida. Miami, celebrated for its diverse culinary influences, hosts this event at the Miami Airport Convention Center, known for its convenient location and versatile event spaces.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 16-17 March

Where: Palais des congrès, Montréal, QC

About: In Montréal, The National Franchise Show connects attendees with exciting restaurant franchise opportunities. Montréal, renowned for its vibrant food scene, hosts this event at the Palais des congrès, a venue acclaimed for its modern architecture and central location.

Event: bar & restaurant expo

When: 18-20 March

Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, LV, NV

About: The bar & restaurant expo in Las Vegas is a key event for bar and restaurant professionals, featuring the latest trends and innovations. The event takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center, a top destination for major trade shows and events.

Event: Annual AKFCF Convention

When: 18-22 March

Where: Aria Hotel, LV, NV

About: The Annual AKFCF Convention at the Aria Hotel in Las Vegas is a significant gathering for franchise owners, focusing on industry best practices and networking. The Aria Hotel is known for its luxury and state-of-the-art conference facilities.

Event: International Pizza Expo & Convention

When: 19-21 March

Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, LV, NV

About: The International Pizza Expo & Convention in Las Vegas is the world’s largest trade show for the pizza industry. Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, this event showcases the latest in pizza trends and technology.

Event: RLPSA Annual Convention

When: 24-27 March

Where: M Resort Hotel & Spa, Henderson, NV

About: The RLPSA Annual Convention at the M Resort Hotel & Spa focuses on restaurant loss prevention and safety. Located in Henderson, near Las Vegas, the venue offers a luxurious setting for this important industry event.

Event: Restaurant Point West

When: 24-27 March

Where: Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego, CA

About: Restaurant Point West at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego is a key networking event for restaurant executives and suppliers. The venue, with its stunning waterfront views, provides an ideal setting for this high-level industry gathering.

April
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 6-7 April

Where: Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver, BC

About: The National Franchise Show in Vancouver is an excellent opportunity to explore restaurant franchises in Western Canada. The event takes place at the Vancouver Convention Centre, known for its picturesque waterfront setting and sustainable design.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 6-7 April

Where: Donald E Stephens Convention Center, Chicago, IL

About: In Chicago, The National Franchise Show offers insights into restaurant franchising opportunities in the Midwest. The event is held at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center, a popular venue for large-scale trade shows.

Event: National Jack in the Box Franchisee Association Allied Partner Summit

When: 10 April

Where: Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, AZ

About: The National Jack in the Box Franchisee Association Summit in Phoenix is a key event for franchisees of this popular brand. The Arizona Biltmore, known for its iconic design and luxurious amenities, hosts this exclusive industry summit.

Event: Restaurant Leadership Conference

When: 14-17 April

Where: JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Phoenix, AZ

About: The Restaurant Leadership Conference at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix brings together top restaurant industry leaders. This venue, known for its stunning desert views and world-class facilities, is an ideal location for this influential conference.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 20-21 April

Where: EY Centre, Ottawa, ON

About: The National Franchise Show in Ottawa is a prime event for exploring restaurant franchise opportunities in Canada’s capital. The EY Centre, known for its modern facilities and convenient location, hosts this important industry event.

Event: Northwest Food Show

When: 21-22 April

Where: Portland Expo Center, Portland, OR

About: The Northwest Food Show in Portland showcases the latest in foodservice and hospitality. Portland, famous for its innovative food scene, is an ideal host for this event, taking place at the Portland Expo Center, known for its spacious and versatile exhibition halls.

Event: Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America

When: 21-24 April

Where: The Venetian Convention & Expo Center, LV, NV

About: The Craft Brewers Conference & BrewExpo America in Las Vegas is a premier event for the craft brewing industry. Held at The Venetian Convention & Expo Center, this event takes advantage of Las Vegas’s reputation as a hub for major conventions and expos.

May
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 4-5 May

Where: The Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas, LV, NV

About: The National Franchise Show in Las Vegas provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore diverse franchise opportunities, particularly in the restaurant sector. Las Vegas, known for its vibrant hospitality scene, hosts this event at The Expo at World Market Center, a modern venue known for its expansive and versatile event space.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 18-19 May

Where: NRG Center, Houston, TX

About: In Houston, The National Franchise Show attracts entrepreneurs interested in restaurant franchising, offering a platform for networking and discovery. Houston, celebrated for its diverse food culture, hosts this event at the NRG Center, a premier venue known for its large-scale exhibitions and events.

Event: National Restaurant Association Show 2024

When: 18-21 May

Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL

About: The National Restaurant Association Show 2024 in Chicago is a landmark event for the restaurant industry, showcasing the latest trends and innovations. Chicago, a city renowned for its culinary diversity, hosts this event at McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America.

June
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 8-9 June

Where: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL

About: The National Franchise Show in Orlando offers insights into restaurant franchising opportunities, ideal for entrepreneurs and investors. Orlando, known for its dynamic tourism and culinary scene, hosts this event at the Orange County Convention Center, one of the largest convention facilities in the country.

July
2024

Event: 2024 JIB-NFA Franchise Conference

When: 8-12 July

Where: Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Whistler, BC

About: The 2024 JIB-NFA Franchise Conference in Whistler is a key event for restaurant franchisees, focusing on growth and innovation. Whistler, famous for its stunning natural scenery and resort amenities, hosts this conference at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, known for its luxurious setting and world-class facilities.

August
2024

No restaurant events scheduled for August 2024 have been found yet. Please reach out if you are hosting a restaurant conference in August 2024.

September
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 14-15 September

Where: The International Centre, Toronto, ON

About: The National Franchise Show in Toronto is a major event for exploring franchising opportunities in the restaurant sector. Held in the multicultural city of Toronto, the event takes place at The International Centre, known for its easily accessible location and versatile event spaces.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 14-15 September

Where: Tampa Convention Center, Tampa, FL

About: This edition of The National Franchise Show in Tampa is a prime opportunity for entrepreneurs interested in restaurant franchises. Tampa, known for its vibrant coastal culture, hosts this event at the Tampa Convention Center, a waterfront venue famous for its scenic views and state-of-the-art facilities.

Event: FSTEC

When: 16-18 September

Where: Gaylord Texan, Grapevine, TX

About: FSTEC in Grapevine is a leading technology conference for the restaurant industry, showcasing the latest innovations. The event is held at the Gaylord Texan, a resort known for its grandeur and comprehensive amenities, set in a town celebrated for its charming wineries and historic downtown.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 28-29 September

Where: Philadelphia Convention Center, Philadelphia, PA

About: In Philadelphia, The National Franchise Show offers insights into the thriving restaurant franchise industry. Philadelphia, rich in history and culinary diversity, hosts this event at the Philadelphia Convention Center, a venue renowned for its large-scale exhibitions and central location.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 28-29 September

Where: Edmonton Expo Centre, Edmonton, AB

About: The National Franchise Show in Edmonton provides a platform for discovering franchising opportunities in the restaurant industry. Edmonton, known for its vibrant arts and festival scene, hosts this event at the Edmonton Expo Centre, a top venue for major events in Western Canada.

October
2024

Event: FRANMAC Convention

When: 6-8 October

Where: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, San Diego, CA

About: The FRANMAC Convention in San Diego is a key event for Taco Bell franchisees, focusing on networking and growth strategies. San Diego, famous for its beautiful beaches and lively cityscape, hosts this event at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, a venue acclaimed for its luxurious setting and exceptional service.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 19-20 October

Where: Palais des congrès, Montréal, QC

About: In Montréal, The National Franchise Show attracts those interested in restaurant franchising, offering a comprehensive exploration of opportunities. Montréal, celebrated for its rich culture and culinary excellence, hosts this event at the Palais des congrès, a venue known for its architectural beauty and prime location.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 19-20 October

Where: Cobb Galleria Centre, Atlanta, GA

About: The National Franchise Show in Atlanta is an important event for exploring restaurant franchise opportunities. Atlanta, known for its dynamic food scene and southern hospitality, hosts this event at the Cobb Galleria Centre, a premier venue known for its modern facilities and convenient location.

November
2024

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 2-3 November

Where: Prime Osborn Convention Center, Jacksonville, FL

About: The National Franchise Show in Jacksonville is an ideal venue for entrepreneurs to explore restaurant franchising opportunities. Jacksonville, known for its beautiful riverfront and cultural offerings, hosts this event at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, a venue celebrated for its spacious facilities and convenient location.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 9-10 November

Where: Pasadena Convention Center, Pasadena, CA

About: In Pasadena, The National Franchise Show provides a platform for discovering exciting opportunities in the restaurant franchise industry. Pasadena, famous for its historic landmarks and vibrant arts scene, hosts this event at the Pasadena Convention Center, a venue known for its elegant architecture and state-of-the-art amenities.

Event: The National Franchise Show

When: 16-17 November

Where: BMO Centre Stampede Park, Calgary, AB

About: The National Franchise Show in Calgary offers a comprehensive look at restaurant franchising, ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs. Calgary, celebrated for its lively cultural events and stunning urban landscape, hosts this event at the BMO Centre Stampede Park, known for its large-scale exhibitions and central location.

December
2024

No restaurant events scheduled for December 2024 have been found yet. Please reach out if you are hosting a restaurant conference in December 2024.

Summary

There is a lot to learn at restaurant conventions. New customers, vendors, suppliers, and business partners can all be found during the many networking opportunities. Whether you are looking for the latest technology or just want to see what’s available, there’s something for everyone in the restaurant industry at the next convention.

If you can’t wait to visit a Solink booth at a restaurant event, sign up for a demo today.

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Timothy Ware is Solink’s Content Manager. He brings over ten years of writing and editing experience to the job. When he isn’t writing about security, loss prevention, and asset protection, he’s enjoying his newest board game. His work has appeared on many B2B SaaS websites including Baremetrics, Security Today, TeamPassword, Cova, and SignTime.