What are you most excited about for 2026?
As always there are lots of exciting new things at the show. We’ve got a new Drinks Zone to expand the number of drinks companies and create an exciting dedicated space for everyone. I don’t want to give too much away, but expect Happy Hours where suppliers showcase their signature pours and tastings and interactions with the brands.
As always, we’ve also got lots of new exhibitors in our New Exhibitor Village – over 30 to date – and we’re absolutely delighted to be welcoming back gategroup to WTCE this year. They’re back bigger and better than ever and are taking their own hall, so this year WTCE will be spread across three halls. I can’t wait to see what they’ll be doing.
What else is not to be missed?
Our Ambassador Trails are essential for those with a particular interest in sustainability, wellbeing and technology. These trails make it easier for attendees to meet with exhibitors who have products and services in these areas.
The Taste of Travel Theatre in Hall 1 is a must. It’s great for networking, and En Route International is giving a free breakfast to all Taste of Travel attendees too.
What do you think will the main trends be this year?
There are so many. We’ve seen a lot going on in the tech space and how digital innovation is enhancing the passenger experience.
Another trend I expect to dominate is operational efficiency on the catering side. Caterers are constantly looking at what more can be done to meet the demands of airlines and keep costs down. We have some exciting new exhibitors in this space for 2026.
How do you ensure the show reflects what’s going on in the industry?
Our Ambassador Programme has been a huge success and is back for 2026. This year we’ve also set up the Journey Circle, a brand new advisory group of experienced onboard hospitality buyers who have been sharing insights, ideas and challenges to help ensure WTCE is reflecting their needs and helping them shape the future of the passenger experience.
What’s your advice for visitors, particularly for first timers?
Get there early on the first day and walk around the halls to get your bearings, especially with a third hall this year. But the first port of call is to visit the website, which has the full exhibitor and product directories.
Arrange as many meetings in advance as you can and use the WTCE app to manage your diary. We’ve also introduced a really handy digital tool called Collect where each of our exhibitors have a QR code on their stand. So, if you’re browsing the aisles and an exhibitor is busy in a meeting, you can just scan the QR code and exchange digital business cards so you can follow up later on.
