Host 2023, held at Fieramilano from 13 to 17 October, once again confirmed its position as the main event where high-spending buyers from around the world gather to discover global trends in advance. This is attested by the numerous hosted buyers selected from 75 countries worldwide, also in collaboration with ICE-ITA Agency. Asia and the United States repeated as two areas with a high influx of attendees.

Technology and energy efficiency take centre stage

“HostMilano is unique for finding all the sectors of our interest, particularly food service equipment, from extractors to ice cream machines, as well as amenities,” comments L. Saunders, representing a leading cruise operator based in the United States. “For example, we found new modular equipment that will allow us to improve organization in the kitchens. Additionally, we noticed the 'see-through' coffee machines, which allow us to observe the extraction process inside. In the trends, we see a strong emphasis on digitalization and sustainability.”

K. Threerawut, a representative of a holding company based in Thailand that holds hotel brands worldwide, also highlighted the concept of sustainability: “This year at Host, we are primarily looking for packaging and raw materials for pasta and bakery, and sustainability is the starting point. But we were also impressed by the food equipment pavilions with their focus on energy savings.”

T. Li, who purchases for a major food retail group active in China, explained that “we found an interesting machine that cleans ice cream scoops in two seconds, thanks to a high-pressure water jet and then an air jet, so rinsing doesn’t contaminate the ice cream. Additionally, we are planning an ice cream museum with the idea of turning it into a chain. The goal is to provide an experience by telling the history of ice cream and letting people taste it.”

To stay updated on future market innovations, mark your calendar for Host 2025, which will take place from 17 to 21October 2025 at fieramilano in Rho.