BEIRUT - HORECA Lebanon opened its 30th edition at Seaside Arena in Beirut, bringing together more than 400 exhibitors and 2,500 brands across 13,000 square meters and three exhibition halls.
Organized by Hospitality Services, the four-day event is expected to welcome 24,000 industry professionals, including chefs, restaurant owners, producers, distributors, architects, interior designers and business leaders, according to the organizers.
The opening ceremony was attended by Tourism Minister Laura Lahoud, Agriculture Minister Dr. Nizar Hani, Economic Bodies President and former minister Mohammad Choucair, Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud, as well as ambassadors, representatives of professional associations and industry stakeholders.
Three Decades of Hospitality
Speaking at the opening, Hospitality Services Co-Founder and CEO Joumana Dammous-Salameh described the anniversary as a milestone for the hospitality sector.
Launched in Lebanon in 1994, HORECA was established as a meeting point for the hospitality, food service and food industries to exchange ideas, build business relationships and explore emerging opportunities. The concept has since expanded to regional markets, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Jordan.
Salameh also announced the launch of the Nihad Dammous Award for Excellence, named in honor of her father, in recognition of his contribution and mentorship.
Tourism Minister Lahoud said HORECA had become a key platform for hotels, restaurants, tourism professionals, producers and suppliers to showcase Lebanese products and connect with regional markets.
She stressed that the state must support businesses continuing to operate and invest despite difficult conditions, adding that the sector needs stability, sound management and supportive policies.
Agriculture Minister Hani highlighted the participation of the Agriculture Ministry and cooperatives in the exhibition, noting that HORECA had helped promote Lebanese products abroad. He said stability remained essential for tourism and the country's development.
New Initiatives and Industry Competitions
This year's edition introduces three curated creative spaces: "From Soil to Table," featuring contemporary ceramics; "Chair Mania," showcasing furniture inspired by Lebanese heritage and modern design; and "Anatomy of a Meal," presenting food photography.
The HORECA Innovations section will showcase more than 25 locally made products selected by an expert committee, while the Hosted Buyers' Program will bring 25 regional buyers to explore Lebanese products and business partnerships.
The event also features HORECA Talks, with more than 100 speakers discussing industry trends and challenges, alongside workshops, culinary demonstrations, and professional development sessions.
More than 200 competitors will participate in culinary and hospitality competitions judged by over 35 international experts and industry professionals. Events include the Hospitality Salon Culinaire, Junior Chef Competition, Barista Competition, Latte Art Competition, and Lebanese Bartenders Competition.
The exhibition is supported by the ministries of tourism, economy and trade, industry, and agriculture, alongside several Lebanese industry associations and professional syndicates.
