Welcome

The Right People Are Here!

The Mid-America Restaurant Expo will attract an expected 4,000+ experts, exhibitors and operators from throughout the Midwest to discuss the latest trends and topics affecting the restaurant industry. Its exhibit hall showcases the newest equipment and tools created specifically for restaurants, in addition to the most innovative food and beverage products available. Centered on collaborative education, the Expo features more than 50 educational seminars available to all attendees. The show is geared toward independent operators, regional chains and even franchise and national operations in the Midwest.  It is perfect for start-ups and veteran operators alike!

 

Show Hours

Sunday, February 23, 2020
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.


Monday, February 24, 2020
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 

Show Location

Greater Columbus Convention Center 
400 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215

Child Policy

Children under the age of 16 are not permitted on the Mid-America Restaurant Expo show floor at any time. This includes infants, toddlers, strollers, and carriers.  Children ages 16 to 18 are permitted only if accompanied by an adult. This trade show standard is strictly enforced to foster a professional, business-to-business environment for our attendees and exhibitors.

 

2019 Expo Highlights

Get a feel for the Expo by checking out the 2019 highlights—featuring our vendors, competitions, outstanding speakers and dynamic keynote presentation!

Updates

02/01/2019

Chef Michael Symon Delivers Entertaining Expo Keynote Address

As he was entering the Mid-American Restaurant Expo’s spacious hall of food samples, products and stages, the always animated Michael Symon grinned when asked if he brought his A game.

02/01/2019

Brenz Pizza Co.'s Kyle Rosch claims 3rd "Best of the Midwest" title with The Heartland Pizza

Brenz Pizza Co.’s Kyle Rosch continued his dominance of the annual Pizza Pizzazz competition by winning his third “Best of the Midwest” title in four years on Jan. 13.

02/01/2019

Chef Rios 'Rules' 2019 Burger Battle title at Mid-America Restaurant Expo

Jomar Rios, executive chef at Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, Ill., won the second-annual Burger Battle competition held at the 2019 The Mid-America Restaurant Expo.

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“Very well executed event, we came away as new customers for several of your vendors. Lots of fun and creative ideas! Well done!” - Candace Jones
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“Very well executed event, we came away as new customers for several of your vendors. Lots of fun and creative ideas! Well done!” - Candace Jones
See what others are saying

partner with THE expo 2020

Expand Network

Attendance will be upwards of 4,000 high-profile industry professionals.  Regional multi-unit chains, independents, and franchisees are looking to visit with you. Expand your network with restaurant owners and decision-makers, GM's, managers, executive chefs, F&B directors, purchasing
managers, caterers, and food truck owner/operators.
Gain Exposure

The Expo is the premier restaurant industry event in the Midwest connecting exhibitors and buyers in a progressive and dynamic environment centered around innovation, technology and trends. Expo attendees will continue to experience the best of the industry.
Build Relationships

The Expo is a high-energy tradeshow featuring multiple live demonstration stages, culinary competitions and food and beverage tastings all held in its expansive exhibit hall showcasing 350 booths and displays.
Engage 
Leads

2020 marks the 28th consecutive tradeshow hosted by the Ohio Restaurant Association. Last year's show had more qualified buyers in attendance than ever before. Don't miss your chance to participate!

INVESTMENT

  • The Expo is competitively priced at $19.95 per square foot.
  • Value-added services include: Free ice, free refrigeration and freezer storage, plus a free listing and product description in the show guide, on the Expo website and on the event app.
  • Each exhibitor receives (5) free VIP Guest Passes for each 10x10 space reserved.
  • Held at a right-to-work facility, exhibitors save time and money doing their own move-in, set-up and tear down.

IT’S A BUYERS’ MARKET AND YOUR COMPETITORS WILL BE AT THE EXPO. RESERVE YOUR SPACE EARLY! 

For exhibit application and show information, contact Trade Show Manager, DEBRA SEIPLE at (614) 246-0221 or dseiple@ohiorestaurant.org

"I did get some good contacts for labels and advice. I hope when the weather gets better some restaurants will reach out for berries." - Bloomfield Meadows

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