In the dynamic, fast-paced world of food-to-go, staying fresh, innovative, and connected is not just a goal – it’s the recipe for success. Imagine a vibrant marketplace where every ingredient for your business’s growth is laid out before you: from revolutionary new food concepts and sustainable packaging solutions to cutting-edge equipment and invaluable industry insights. That place is Lunch! Trade Show, the UK’s leading event dedicated exclusively to the thriving food-to-go sector.

Lunch! is more than just an exhibition; it’s an annual pilgrimage for senior decision-makers, buyers, and innovators from cafes, coffee shops, sandwich bars, delis, supermarkets, contract caterers, and wholesalers. It’s where the industry meets to do serious business, uncover the next big trend, and ignite the inspiration needed to stay ahead in this intensely competitive market. If you’re involved in any aspect of the food-to-go industry, attending Lunch! is an unmissable opportunity to nourish your business and satisfy your hunger for success.

Your Essential Guide to Lunch!

To ensure you make the most of your visit to this powerhouse event, let’s delve into the practical details.

The Venue: ExCeL London – A Hub of Innovation

Lunch! proudly calls ExCeL London its home. This world-class exhibition centre, located in the vibrant Royal Docks area of London, is a fitting venue for an event that champions innovation. ExCeL boasts expansive, modern halls, state-of-the-art facilities, and excellent connectivity, making it a premier choice for major trade shows. Its strategic position in London ensures it’s easily accessible for both domestic and international visitors, thanks to direct links via the Elizabeth line and the DLR (Docklands Light Railway). The comfortable and professional environment of ExCeL London provides the perfect backdrop for exploring new products and forging valuable business connections.

When Hunger for Innovation Strikes: Dates and Times

Lunch! is an annual event that serves as a crucial fixture in the food-to-go calendar. Mark your calendars! The next edition is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24th, and Thursday, September 25th, 2025.

The show generally opens its doors from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on both Wednesday and Thursday. These dedicated hours provide ample opportunity to navigate the extensive exhibition floor, engage with a multitude of suppliers, attend inspiring seminar sessions, and participate in crucial networking. Arriving early on either day is always a wise strategy to maximize your time and ensure you don’t miss out on any key presentations, product launches, or valuable discussions.

The Investment: Cost of Attendance

One of the most appealing aspects of Lunch! is its commitment to accessibility for industry professionals. Entry to Lunch! is typically free for trade visitors who register in advance. This means that if you secure your ticket before the specified deadline (usually 5 PM on the Tuesday before the show), you can attend the exhibition and access the comprehensive seminar program at no cost.

However, it’s important to note that a registration fee, typically around £50, will apply for those who register after this advance deadline or on the door. Lunch! is a trade-only event, and all registrations are subject to verification to ensure that attendees are genuine industry professionals. This free advance registration makes Lunch! an incredibly cost-effective way to gather vital intelligence, source new products, and network within the food-to-go sector.

Where to Stay: Hotels Near ExCeL London

Given its prime location at ExCeL London in the Docklands, there is a wide array of accommodation options available to suit every budget and preference. Due to the popularity of Lunch! and other co-located events, booking your stay well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred choice and potentially better rates.

Here are some highly-rated options within close proximity to ExCeL London, ranging from convenient and budget-friendly to more upscale choices:

• Hotels directly adjacent or a short walk from ExCeL:
  • Novotel London ExCeL: Offers comfortable stays and direct access to the exhibition centre.
  • Aloft London ExCeL: A stylish and modern hotel known for its vibrant atmosphere.
  • Moxy London ExCeL: A trendy option perfect for a contemporary experience.
  • Holiday Inn Express London – ExCeL: A reliable and comfortable choice often favoured for business travel.
  • Travelodge London ExCeL: A popular and budget-friendly option for those seeking convenience.
  • Ibis London ExCeL Docklands: Another well-known brand offering good value and proximity.
  • Good Hotel London: A unique hotel built on a floating platform, offering a distinctive stay.
• Hotels in the wider Docklands area with easy DLR access:
  • Crowne Plaza London Docklands: Offers a touch of luxury with its leisure facilities.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton London ExCeL: Known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms.
  • Hampton by Hilton London Docklands: Provides reliable comfort and complimentary breakfast.
  • Sunborn London Yacht Hotel: For a truly unique and luxurious experience, this superyacht hotel is docked right next to ExCeL.
  • Courtyard by Marriott London City Airport: A convenient option for those arriving via London City Airport.

Utilizing online booking platforms and filtering by proximity to ExCeL London will provide the most current availability and pricing, helping you secure the best fit for your visit during the show.

The Unrivalled Benefits of Attending Lunch!

Attending Lunch! is a strategic move that can significantly impact the growth and profitability of any business in the food-to-go sector.

1. Unparalleled Product Sourcing and Innovation Discovery: This is arguably the biggest draw. Lunch! brings together hundreds of exhibitors showcasing thousands of exciting products – from innovative food and drink concepts (think new healthy snacks, unique flavour combinations, and plant-based delights) to cutting-edge packaging solutions (sustainable, functional, visually appealing) and the latest kitchen equipment. You’ll be among the first to discover new launches, taste trending items, and see the innovations that will define the future of food-to-go.

2. Direct Access to Key Suppliers and Manufacturers: Forget endless online searches. At Lunch!, you can meet face-to-face with a vast array of suppliers and manufacturers, discuss your specific needs, negotiate deals, and build invaluable relationships. This direct interaction is crucial for establishing reliable supply chains, understanding product capabilities, and securing competitive pricing that can boost your margins. Many exhibitors offer exclusive show-only deals and incentives.

3. Invaluable Industry Insights and Education: The show boasts multiple keynote theatres hosting a packed program of free seminars, expert talks, and live interviews. You’ll hear directly from leading operators, industry analysts, and successful entrepreneurs sharing their strategies, challenges, and predictions for the sector. Topics cover everything from consumer trends and operational efficiencies to marketing tactics, sustainability best practices, and navigating regulatory changes. This is critical for staying informed and making strategic business decisions.

4. Networking with Peers and Decision-Makers: Lunch! is a vibrant community gathering. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with thousands of like-minded professionals – owners of cafes, coffee shops, sandwich bars, delis, and representatives from major chains and supermarkets. Share experiences, exchange ideas, find potential collaborators, and forge connections that can lead to new opportunities, mentorship, and vital industry support. The buzzing atmosphere facilitates easy and productive networking.

5. Explore the “Start-Up Zone”: A fantastic perk of Lunch! is its dedicated Start-Up Zone, featuring new and emerging companies. This is the ideal place to discover tomorrow’s best sellers and unique niche products before they hit the mainstream. For buyers, it offers a chance to differentiate their offering, and for start-ups, it’s a vital platform for gaining exposure and feedback.

6. Co-located Sister Shows: Lunch! often runs alongside sister shows such as The National Restaurant, Pub & Bar Show. Your free ticket to Lunch! typically grants you free access to these co-located events as well, significantly expanding your sourcing and networking opportunities across the broader hospitality sector, giving you even more value from your visit.

The Perks That Satisfy Your Business Appetite

Beyond the core benefits, Lunch! offers several distinctive perks that enhance the overall experience:

• Innovation Challenge: This highly anticipated feature showcases the most innovative food-to-go products launched within the last 12 months. It’s a fantastic way to quickly identify groundbreaking solutions and see what’s truly new and exciting in the market, often with products launching live at the show.
• Live Demonstrations: Many exhibitors and stages host live demonstrations of food preparation, equipment usage, and packaging solutions, providing practical insights and inspiration that you can take back to your own operations.
• Tailored to the Sector: Unlike broader food events, Lunch!’s singular focus on the food-to-go sector means every exhibitor, every seminar, and every conversation is highly relevant to your specific business needs and challenges.
• Inspiring Atmosphere: The energy at Lunch! is consistently described as inspiring and vibrant. Being surrounded by so much innovation, passion, and industry expertise can reignite your creativity and motivate you to push your business further.

In conclusion, Lunch! Trade Show is an indispensable event for anyone involved in the dynamic food-to-go industry. Its comprehensive offering of product discovery, expert insights, unparalleled networking, and direct access to suppliers makes it a vital catalyst for growth and innovation. The free advance entry makes it an incredibly accessible and valuable investment in your business’s future. Don’t miss this opportunity to savour the latest trends and drive your food-to-go venture to new heights.

Ready to get a taste of the future of food-to-go and fuel your business’s success? Visit the official Lunch! Trade Show website to register for your free tickets: https://www.lunchshow.co.uk/