Next generation technologies, in the form of concrete applications. Unprecedented sustainable solutions to safeguard the planet. Hitherto-unseen ways of interacting with machines, thanks to user interfaces featuring automation and artificial intelligence.

All this will be on show at Host 2023, at fieramilano in Rho from 13 to 17 October – with the sixth edition of Smart Label – Host Innovation Award, the distinction made in recognition of innovation in the field of professional hospitality, promoted by HostMilano and Fiera Milano in partnership with POLI.design and sponsored by ADI, Italy's Industrial Design Association.

In fact, during the event, not only will the winners be presented with their awards in an official ceremony, but their ideas will also be displayed in the dedicated SMART Products area, where visitors can view the products, solutions and services that best interpret the award's philosophy of sustainable innovation, the very heart of HostMilano's innovative drive. And that innovation will also appear in a special publication, the Smart Label Index.

Smart Label Award: beyond trends

In just six editions Smart Label has become a reference point for innovations that signal a real step change, as the facts and figures show. In the five previous editions, over 790 ideas were submitted and 256 products were awarded the label. In this edition alone, 157 applications have been received from Italy and abroad, bringing further confirmation of how the Smart Label is increasingly being seen as a distinction that attests to a company's ability to innovate.

Technology is the most innovative aspect in 40% of entries, while for over 23% it is sustainability. 11% is characterised above all by an innovative user interface and 9% by efficient energy-saving solutions. Innovative materials are also well represented. And if the lion's share of submissions is accounted for by actual products (almost 90% of the total), more and more concepts, designs, apps and software ideas are also being entered for the Host Innovation Award.

The award is divided into three categories. The Smart Label is bestowed on products with characteristic, innovative content. The Innovation Smart Label recognises innovation that goes beyond established trends. And finally the Green Smart Label is awarded to products that stand out for their sustainability. The applications will be evaluated by an international jury made up of: Venanzio Arquilla, Professore Associato al Politecnico di Milano, Scuola del Design; Giselle Chajin, UX and Service Design Director di Tangity Italy; Matteo O. Ingaramo, Presidente di POLI.design; Iginio Massari, Maestro Pasticciere; Markus Orthey, Design Director di De`Longhi Braun Household; and Vu Duy Phong, Chief Design Director De` Longhi Group.

At Host 2023, innovation will be present across the board, with over 1,800 exhibitors from 50 countries forming a fascinating exhibition itinerary that will occupy the entire Fieramilano district in Rho.