The Irish hospitality industry is more vibrant and innovative than ever, but it’s not without its challenges. As we build Hospitality Expo 2026, we’re talking to operators on the ground every day, and the same three core issues keep coming up: staffing, guest expectations, and sustainability.
Running a successful business in 2026 means tackling these challenges head-on. That’s why we’ve designed the entire expo—from our show-stopping features to our expert-led stage agendas—to provide you with a two-day toolkit for solving these exact problems.
Here’s a look at the industry’s biggest hurdles and how you can find the solutions at HEX 2026.
Challenge 1: The Staffing & Efficiency Squeeze
Finding and retaining great staff remains a top concern, while the need to run a lean, efficient operation has never been greater. The old ways of working are no longer enough; businesses need to do more with less.
The Solution at HEX: Technology is the key. In our Technology & Innovation Hub, you’ll find the latest POS systems, booking software, and kitchen automation tools that are essential for streamlining your operations. These systems free up your valuable staff to focus on high-value guest interactions.
On Stage: Expect this to be a major theme on our conference stages, with practical talks on finance, automation, and tech implementation to boost your efficiency.
Challenge 2: The Demand for ‘The Experience’
Today’s guests don’t just want a pint, a meal, or a bed for the night—they want an experience. With so much competition, venues need to give customers a compelling reason to leave their homes.
The Solution at HEX: We’re tackling this head-on with our groundbreaking new feature, The HEX Social Zone. This is a live showcase of the ‘competitive socialising’ trend that is driving massive new revenue streams for bars and hotels. Here, you can “test drive” attractions and see firsthand how they can turn your venue into a must-visit destination.
On Stage: Our stage agendas will feature innovators and case studies from the “experience economy,” discussing how to successfully add new entertainment attractions and market them to a new generation of customers.
Challenge 3: The Urgency of Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s a critical business metric. Customers are actively demanding it, and rising energy costs are making it a financial necessity.
The Solution at HEX: We’re making it easy to find practical, cost-saving solutions. Our Sustainability Zone will guide you directly to exhibitors with certified eco-friendly products.
On Stage: We will be dedicating significant time on our agendas to sustainability, with experts sharing actionable advice on cutting energy costs, reducing waste, and making sustainability profitable.
Your Toolkit for 2026
Hospitality Expo 2026 is more than just a trade show; it’s a two-day, intensive toolkit for solving your biggest business problems. We look forward to welcoming you to the RDS on February 10th-11th.
Visitor registration for Hospitality Expo 2026 is now open. Secure your free ticket today.
Interested in showcasing your brand at Ireland’s premier hospitality event? Enquire about exhibiting on our website.