October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    29–30 Sep 2026

    City / country

    London, United Kingdom

    Venue

    ExCeL London

    Time

    10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for Cafe Business Expo

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at Cafe Business Expo include Bevie Partners Limited, Sanko Global, Wheat and Love Bakery, Franke Coffee Systems UK Ltd and Fresh Eric's Cake Co Ltd.

    • Bevie Partners Limited
    • Sanko Global
    • Wheat and Love Bakery
    • Franke Coffee Systems UK Ltd
    • Fresh Eric's Cake Co Ltd

    Event overview

    Overview

    Café Business Expo is where attendees come together to discover new trends, innovative suppliers, and practical solutions that help independent businesses and chains thrive. From start-ups to global innovators, you'll meet people who understand your challenges and are eager to share ideas, insights, and practical solutions.

    Whether you're searching for fresh products, equipment upgrades, creative inspiration, or operational support, this is the place for you to be. The Café Business Expo is the ultimate event for professionals driving the café sector forward

    TL;DR

    1. 1UK's leading trade event for the café and coffee shop sector, taking place on
    2. 2Free to attend, with access to hundreds of exhibitors, expert keynotes, panel discussions,
    3. 3Covers the full spectrum of café operations: from coffee equipment and drinks innovation to
    4. 4Co-located with multiple hospitality shows as part of the Food Service Industry Expo, offering
    5. 5Features a dedicated Sustainability Trail highlighting eco-conscious practices and suppliers

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Independent café and coffee shop owners
    Managers and operators of branded café chains
    Aspiring start-ups and entrepreneurs in the café sector
    Baristas and coffee professionals
    Hospitality buyers and procurement professionals
    Food service industry professionals
    Hospitality professionals in casual dining
    Suppliers and distributors looking for new products and trends

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Coffee roasters and bean suppliers
    Café equipment and machinery manufacturers
    Point-of-sale (POS) and operational technology providers
    Packaging and sustainable sourcing companies
    Interior design and fit-out specialists
    Staffing and training solution providers
    Menu development and food suppliers
    Drinks innovation brands (e.g., bubble tea, milkshakes)

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Coffee Machines & Brewing Equipment
    Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems
    Packaging Solutions
    Staffing & Training Solutions
    Café Interiors & Furniture
    Menu Development & Food Products
    Drinks Innovation (e.g., bubble tea, milkshakes)
    Sustainable Sourcing & Eco-Friendly Products
    Operational Technology
    Food & Beverage Ingredients
    Café Accessories & Barista Tools

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    ExCeL London

    One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, E16 1XL London, United Kingdom

    Entrances & gates

    West Entrance

    Main entrance for visitors. Nearest to Custom House station (Elizabeth line and DLR)

    East Entrance

    Nearest to Prince Regent DLR station

    Facilities

    Parking

    Over 3,000 on-site parking spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis via pay and display. Designated disabled parking for Blue Badge holders is available within 50 metres of the main entrance. The car park entrance is via the A13 (postcode E16 1FR)

    3,070 spaces · £20.00/day

    Accessibility

    The venue is fully accessible for wheelchair users. All public entrances have low-gradient ramps and automatic doors, with level floors inside. Accessible toilets are available on all levels. Designated disabled parking is provided

    Prayer rooms

    A multi-faith prayer room is available. It can be accessed through the grey door next to the S9 hall entrance on the boulevard

    Cloakroom

    Complimentary cloakrooms are available during event hours, subject to organiser discretion. Located on level 0 (between hall entrances N4 & S4) and at the east end of the venue on level 0. Overnight storage and electronic devices (cameras, laptops) cannot be stored

    Luggage storage

    ExCeL does not operate a permanent public left luggage facility. Cloakroom services for large items are run by individual event organisers and are not consistently available or bookable in advance

    On-site shuttle

    No internal shuttle service is mentioned; the venue is designed to be walkable with level access between halls

    Food options

    Various Food Outlets, The Bridge Restaurant, Diner & Bar, Food & Drink Boulevard, The Fox

    On-site dining

    Parking: ExCeL has over 1,800 parking spaces. Access to the car park is only via the A13; there is no access from Western Gateway or Seagull Lane. For satellite navigation, use postcode E16 1FR for the car park entrance. Parking is pay and display, with a charge of approximately £20 per 24 hours-. Blue Badge holders can park in marked bays at the same tariff. Coach and minibus parking is £50 per day and must be pre-booked. Motorcycle parking is free and cannot be pre-booked. The car park only permits vehicles up to 1.9 metres height, with limited spaces for vehicles up to 2.8m. Please note Sandstone Lane and Seagull Lane are closed

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only
    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Tuesday 29th September:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
    Wednesday 30th September:10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

    • Free Registration

      Free entry for trade professionals

    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Badge collection details are not specified; visitors should check the official website for updates

    Ticket notes

    The event is free to attend, but tickets are currently sold out on Eventbrite. Registration may still be available via the official website

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Fortem Food and Drink Ltd

    Organiser

    Website

    Fortem International

    Organiser (trading name)

    Website

    Hannah Benn

    Contact Person

    Website

    Fortem International Ltd

    Organiser

    EmailCallWebsite

    What's on

    Programme

    Speakers

    SM

    Stephanie McCaffrey

    Head of Wild Bean Café @ Wild Bean Café

    Brand operations and innovation

    WG

    William Gordon-Harris

    Chief Executive Officer @ Knoops

    Brand operations and innovation

    RH

    Roland Horne

    Founder & Chief Executive Officer @ WatchHouse Coffee

    Brand operations and innovation

    MR

    Melinda Roylett

    Managing Director, Lloyds Merchant Services @ Lloyds Bank

    Financial insights for café businesses

    VP

    Vanessa Pearson

    Procurement Manager, Retail Drinks, Wine & Spirits @ Ocado

    Retail channel partnerships

    GM

    Gerd Mueller-Pfeiffer

    Founder @ International Coffee Consulting

    Global coffee trends, consumer behaviour, and innovation

    JB

    Josh Barton

    CEO @ Brose Oat Milk

    LW

    Laura Willoughby

    Founder @ Club Soda

    MF

    Michelle Farrell

    Chief Growth Officer @ Boxpark

    RH

    Roland Horne

    Founder and CEO @ Watch House Coffee

    Topic tracks

    Sustainability TrailOperations & TechnologyMenu & Product InnovationBusiness Growth & Strategy

    Co-located events

    Restaurant & Takeaway Innovation Expo

    Separate ticket

    Hospitality Tech Expo

    Separate ticket

    Hotel & Resort Innovation Expo

    Separate ticket

    Trade Drinks Expo

    Separate ticket

    Street Food Business Expo

    Separate ticket

    Responsible Packaging Expo

    Separate ticket

    Grab & Go Expo

    Separate ticket

    Awards

    World Coffee Innovation Awards

    Annual

    Celebrates groundbreaking products, designs, and technologies driving the coffee industry forward. Now in its fourth year, the awards recognise international innovation across the sector. The 2026 ceremony is held in association with Café Business Expo

    Product InnovationSustainable SolutionCustomer Experience Transformation
    source

    Product Innovation Award

    Annual

    Honours outstanding concepts that have significantly impacted the F&B industry, judged on functionality, innovation, and design

    source

    Food & Drink Innovation Award

    Annual

    Credits businesses that have developed innovative, original, or experimental delicious food and drink products

    source

    Tech Product of the Year Award

    Annual

    Celebrates transformative technology that is revolutionising the future of the Food & Beverage industry

    source

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 15,000 visitors · 250 exhibitors

    No official exhibitor or visitor forecasts have been published for the 2026 edition

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    4,000

    Exhibitors

    200

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Sustainability Trail

      A curated feature highlighting brands leading in eco-conscious practices, from ethically sourced ingredients and waste reduction to energy-efficient equipment and sustainable packaging

      Source
    • 2

      Barista Zone

      An immersive coffee experience hosting passionate coffee experts who present their signature blends, roasting methods, and brewing techniques

      Source
    • 3

      Tevalis VIP Lounge

      A dedicated lounge providing a platform for restaurateurs and takeaway owners to obtain new business contacts in a relaxing environment

      Source

    Testimonials

    Day 3 at the Cafe Business Expo was a hit for Coffeeholic. We made new friends in the coffee world, and they're happy with our brand and high-quality products. We're excited about the promising deals on the horizon. Thanks for making it extraordinary!

    Coffee Holic · Exhibitor · Coffee Holic · 2024

    Worth attending! Great job!

    Cupffee Team · Exhibitor · Cupffee · 2024

    Next edition outlook

    2026-09-29 – 2026-09-30
    estimated

    The 2026 edition of Café Business Expo is scheduled for 29–30 September at ExCeL London. Building on the success of previous years, the event is expected to feature hundreds of exhibitors, a packed programme of keynotes and panel discussions, and expanded co-located shows as part of the Food Service Industry Expo. Organiser forecasts suggest 500+ exhibitors and 15k+ visitors, though these figures are not officially confirmed-. The 2026 edition will continue to emphasise sustainability, technology, and practical commercial insight for café operators

    Continued expansion of the Sustainability Trail and eco-conscious features Increased focus on automation, AI, and operational technology solutions Broader representation from food-focused and non-traditional café operators More diverse beverage offerings including global flavours and cold coffee innovations Stronger focus on menu innovation and all-day dining concepts

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The 2025 edition of Café Business Expo reinforced its position as the UK's leading trade event for the café sector, drawing thousands of café owners, operators, and suppliers to ExCeL London. Co-located with the Hospitality B2B Portfolio, the event provided a platform for exploring practical solutions to rising operational costs, shifting consumer expectations, and the need for sustainable and tech-driven innovation. With a sharp focus on commercial insight, the expo enabled attendees to source new products, hear from industry leaders, and build connections that directly support business growth

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    The event attracted a high-quality, decision-making audience. According to HospitaliTech, 82% of attendees would recommend the event to an industry contact, 88% had purchasing authority, and 83% had decision-making power. The audience was predominantly independent operators (72%) with 19% from fast-growing chains. Attendees included senior professionals such as Coffee Shop Owners, Café Owners, CEOs, and Managing Directors from major brands including McDonald's, Krispy Kreme, Costa Coffee, LavAzza, Starbucks, and Caffe Nero

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitor satisfaction was strong, with 84% of exhibitors rebooking on the day. The event attracted over 200 exhibitors and provided direct access to thousands of hospitality buyers, offering a powerful platform for suppliers to connect with decision-makers actively sourcing new products and solutions

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    United Kingdom

    Why it matters

    Café Business Expo 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the UK café sector. The industry is experiencing robust growth—the branded coffee shop market reached £6.8bn in 2026 with 12,313 outlets—yet operators face intense competition, rising costs, and shifting consumer behaviours. Consumers are increasingly trading down from restaurants to cafés, with coffee shop spending up 5% in H1 2026. Food-focused operators are blurring sector boundaries, and sustainability, automation, and global flavour innovation are reshaping the competitive landscape. For café owners, suppliers, and hospitality professionals, this event offers a critical platform to discover the products, technologies, and insights needed to navigate these changes, differentiate their offers, and capture growth in an increasingly dynamic market

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Food-focused operators blurring sector boundaries

    Value-focused food operators like Greggs have overtaken traditional coffee leaders in outlet numbers, demonstrating that UK consumers are increasingly embracing coffee in non-traditional locations. A growing number of food-focused operators are investing in coffee quality to compete with traditional coffee chains, creating a more fragmented and competitive consumer environment

    Source
    02

    Independents gain ground with sustainability & local focus

    Independent cafés are gaining ground by offering sustainable, locally focused and innovative menus. High-street chains are fighting back with technology-driven convenience, loyalty schemes and drive-thru expansion. 41% of UK consumers now prefer independent coffee shops, motivated primarily by a desire to support local businesses (38%), followed by quality (18%) and atmosphere (13%)

    Source
    03

    Seasonality, newness and grab-and-go drive sales

    Regularly refreshed menus are shown to drive increased sales, with seasonal and new offerings becoming key differentiators. The rise of grab-and-go formats continues as commuting and early-morning footfall return, reflecting shifting consumer habits in the post-pandemic landscape

    Source
    04

    Sustainability moves from trend to expectation

    Sustainability is no longer a trend but an expectation in the café sector. Eco-conscious practices, from ethically sourced ingredients and waste reduction to energy-efficient equipment and sustainable packaging, are becoming table stakes for operators looking to attract and retain customers

    Source
    05

    Automation gains acceptance in coffee service

    Automation in coffee preparation and service is no longer considered a dirty word. As third-wave coffee becomes increasingly prevalent, customers with a taste for quality are setting new standards in the overall coffee experience, and operators are exploring automation as the next step forward in efficiency and consistency

    Source
    06

    UK coffee culture booming as social hubs & remote offices

    UK coffee culture has been booming, driven by shifting social habits, hybrid work, and health trends. Cafés now act as social hubs and remote offices, especially for Gen Z and young professionals seeking ethical, premium offerings. The share of people not consuming alcohol is up, and coffee is increasingly the drink of choice over tea

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    Greggs becomes UK coffee king as largest branded chain

    Read

    UK café & coffee shop industry revenue to reach £6.7bn

    Read

    Cafés and coffee shops outperform restaurants in H1 2026

    Read

    Project Café UK 2026: UK branded coffee shop market hits £6.8bn

    Read

    £10 Million Hospitality Grant Scheme launches for independents

    Read

    Majority of UK coffee shops open to plant-based milk as default

    Read

    UK & Europe Café & Hospitality Event Circuit 2026 to 2027

    March 2026 – April 2027

    The UK café and hospitality event calendar for 2026 to 2027 offers a rich mix of trade shows, summits, and festivals. Key events include HRC (March), The London Coffee Festival (May), and a cluster of co-located shows at ExCeL London in September including the Café Business Expo, Caffè Culture Show, and several Food Service Industry Expo events. The circuit spans from large-scale B2B exhibitions to intimate leadership summits, providing opportunities for both discovery and high-level strategic partnership

    29–30 Sep 2026

    HRC (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering) 2026

    London, United Kingdom

    25,000+ verified trade visitors, 100+ expert speakers, 6 co-located events

    website
    29–30 Sep 2026

    The UK Coffee Leader Summit

    London, United Kingdom

    One-day event at The Langham, London. Features exclusive Project Café UK 2026 insights and pre-qualified 1:1 meetings

    website
    29–30 Sep 2026

    The London Coffee Festival

    London, United Kingdom

    Features Roasters Village, Latte Art Live, Coffee Masters, and new Drip District pour-over area

    website
    29–30 Sep 2026

    BCB London 2026 (Bar & Cocktail Beverage)

    London, United Kingdom

    Exhibits include coffee, tea, spirits, beer, and bar snacks

    29–30 Sep 2026

    London Food & Drink Festival 2026

    London, United Kingdom

    Takes place at ExCeL London, co-located with Natural & Organic Food Show and Artisan Food & Drink Show

    29–30 Sep 2026

    Caffè Culture Show 2026

    London, United Kingdom

    Hosts 120+ premium exhibitors. Takes place at London Business Design Centre, Islington

    29–30 Sep 2026

    Coffee Europe Expo 2026

    Warsaw, Poland

    Held in Warsaw, Poland

    29–30 Sep 2026

    World of Coffee Brussels 2026

    Brussels, Belgium

    Combines trade show, cupping, and educational sessions

    Spring Hospitality Season (Mar–Apr)

    HRC 2026The UK Coffee Leader Summit

    Focus on large-scale hospitality procurement and high-level strategic networking

    Late Spring Coffee Festivals (May)

    The London Coffee FestivalBCB London 2026

    Consumer-facing and trade mix; ideal for brand exposure and product sampling

    Autumn Trade Show Cluster (Sep)

    London Food & Drink FestivalCafé Business Expo 2026Caffè Culture Show 2026Coffee Europe Expo 2026

    Peak B2B exhibition period in London; multiple co-located events provide efficiency for attendees

    Event dates and details compiled from trade show directories, organiser websites, and industry press. Some dates may be subject to change; verify with official sources before planning

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · GBP

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    LCY

    London City Airport

    Closest airport to ExCeL London. Direct DLR connection to Custom House (west entrance) and Prince Regent (east entrance) stations, journey time approximately 10 minutes

    1 mile (1.6 km)

    to venue

    5 minutes

    by car

    LHR

    London Heathrow Airport

    Direct Elizabeth line service to Custom House station (west entrance) in approximately 43–45 minutes, seven days per week

    21 miles (33.8 km)

    to venue

    43–45 minutes

    by car

    LGW

    London Gatwick Airport

    Accessible via train to central London and then DLR or Elizabeth line to ExCeL

    25.8 miles (41.5 km)

    to venue

    60–90 minutes

    by car

    STN

    London Stansted Airport

    Accessible via Stansted Express to Liverpool Street, then DLR or Elizabeth line to ExCeL

    28.3 miles (45.5 km)

    to venue

    45–60 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Budget
    Near ExCeL / Royal Albert / Canning Town

    USD 80–120 / night

    Includes Holiday Inn Express London ExCeL and Prince Regent Hotel Excel London-. Basic but practical options within walking distance or a short DLR ride

    Mid-range
    Near ExCeL / Royal Victoria Dock

    USD 120–200 / night

    Includes Aloft London Excel (approx. $150-250 per night) and Hampton by Hilton London Excel (starting from ~$107)-. Properties like Crowne Plaza London Docklands also fall into this range-. Balances cost with comfort and proximity

    Premium
    Near ExCeL / Royal Victoria Dock / Custom House

    USD 200–350 / night

    Includes Novotel London ExCeL (the closest hotel, approx. 150 meters from the venue)- and Sunborn London yacht hotel. Offers superior amenities, waterfront views, and direct venue access

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    DLR (Docklands Light Railway)

    Estimated costPay as you go with Oyster or contactless payment card; fares vary by zone
    Best forCustom House (west entrance) and Prince Regent (east entrance) stations

    Two DLR stations are on the ExCeL campus with covered walkways, leaving less than a two-minute walk to the entrance. Services towards Beckton and Gallions Reach stop at Custom House, with easy connections from the Jubilee line at Canning Town. Prince Regent is the closest station to the east entrance

    Elizabeth line

    Estimated costPay as you go with Oyster or contactless payment card; fares vary by zone
    Best forCustom House station (west entrance)

    London's newest passenger service runs direct to Custom House from Liverpool Street, Farringdon, and Paddington. From Heathrow, the Elizabeth line takes you directly to Custom House in around 45 minutes. Custom House is less than a two-minute covered walk from the west entrance

    London Underground (Jubilee Line)

    Estimated costPay as you go with Oyster or contactless payment card; fares vary by zone
    Best forJubilee Line to Canning Town, then change to DLR for Prince Regent or Custom House

    Recommended as the quickest route to ExCeL London from Central London. Alight at Canning Town and change onto a Beckton-bound DLR train for the quick two-stop journey to the venue

    Bus

    Estimated costPay as you go with Oyster or contactless payment card; single fare approx. £1.75
    Best forMultiple routes serve Custom House and Prince Regent stations

    Bus routes serving ExCeL include 147, 241, 300, 325, 473, 474, 541, 678 and N551 Routes 147 and 241 connect Canning Town to Custom House and Prince Regent

    IFS Cloud Cable Car (Emirates Air Line)

    Estimated costFrom £5–£7 return (discounts available for event attendees)
    Best forExCeL London to The O2 / North Greenwich

    Links ExCeL London with. The O2 and North Greenwich station, offering panoramic views across the River Thames. Visitors and exhibitors can enjoy an exclusive discounted fare when attending an event

    Taxi / Ride-hailing

    Estimated costVaries by distance and demand
    Best forVarious destinations; designated drop-off points at both entrances

    Black cabs, Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow are widely available. For team travel, seven-seat vehicles like Mercedes V-Class are available. Two taxi ranks are located onsite

    Car / Driving

    Estimated costParking from £20–£25 per day (pre-booking required)
    Best forM25, M11, A406 North Circular, A13 – follow signs for Royal Docks, City Airport and ExCeL

    Sat Nav postcodes: E16 1XL for west entrance, E16 1FR for east entrance and car park. Onsite parking is pay and display, with over 3,000 spaces. Pre-booking is strongly recommended as entry without a booking will be refused. Blue Badge holders can park in marked bays

    Cycle

    Estimated costFree
    Best forWest entrance beneath the DLR walkway

    Free cycle racks are available at the west entrance beneath the DLR walkway. The TfL Go app can help plan cycling routes

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    Standard Visitor Visa (business)Nationals of visa-required countries (see visa national list) who wish to attend the Café Business Expo as a visitor, exhibitor, or for other business purposes for up to 6 months -. Non-visa nationals may visit without a visa but must meet the same eligibility requirements$170.00Usually 3 weeks from biometrics appointment-. Processing times vary by country and season
    Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)Non-visa nationals (e.g., US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and EU/EFTA countries) who do not require a visa but need pre-travel authorisation$25.00Usually within 3 working days; apply online or via UK ETA app before departure

    Citizens of EU/EFTA member states, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, and the United States do not need a visa for stays of up to 6 months-. However, from 25 February 2026, most visa-exempt nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel- -. The full list of visa-required countries is maintained in the Immigration Rules Appendix Visitor: Visa National list

    The UK accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary import of goods for trade fairs and exhibitions. An ATA Carnet allows goods to be moved temporarily between countries participating in the ATA Carnet system without paying duties or taxes. It is typically used for commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for trade fairs and exhibitions. The Carnet is valid for up to one year and may be used multiple times within that period. In the UK, ATA Carnets are issued by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and a network of local Chambers of Commerce. Goods intended for sale, hire, or processing are excluded. The Carnet must be presented at every entry, exit, or transit. Apply through your national Chamber of Commerce or the UK National ATA Carnet Organisation (UKNATACO)

    Official visa page

    Weather

    London in September is pleasantly mild. Average daytime high temperatures are around 20°C (68°F), with nighttime lows around 12°C (54°F). Average monthly rainfall is approximately 44.5 mm, with around 5–6 rainy days. Light rain is possible, so a waterproof jacket or umbrella is recommended

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    ExCeL London is exceptionally well-connected. The venue is served by two DLR stations (Custom House for the west entrance and Prince Regent for the east entrance) and the Elizabeth line at Custom House. The Elizabeth line provides a direct, fast link from Heathrow Airport. The DLR connects to the London Underground Jubilee line at Canning Town, providing access to central London. The venue is also accessible by car via the A13 and has over 3,000 on-site parking spaces. Uber Boat by Thames Clippers also serves the Royal Docks

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    London's Café Culture

    London is a global hub for coffee and café culture, with a vibrant scene ranging from independent specialty roasters to major high-street chains. The city's fast-paced urban lifestyle is intertwined with its coffee culture, making it a natural host for Europe's leading café trade event

    Royal Docks & Modern London

    ExCeL London is located in the Royal Docks, a regenerated waterfront area. This district blends modern business venues with leisure attractions, including the Emirates Air Line cable car, the O2 Arena, and historic Greenwich nearby. It's a place where London's maritime history meets its contemporary, dynamic spirit

    Business Etiquette – Communication

    Brits tend to be reserved and value personal space. Use formal language in business settings – avoid slang and over-familiarity. Maintain good posture. At networking events, ordering a soft drink or coffee is perfectly acceptable

    Queuing and Public Behaviour

    Queuing (waiting in line) is a cultural cornerstone. Pushing in or walking to the front of a queue will cause offence. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces and many outdoor areas in the UK

    Dress Code

    British business attire tends toward conservative and formal, especially in industries such as food & beverage, professional services, and finance. For the trade show, smart casual or business attire is recommended – neat, clean, and well-groomed. Comfortable shoes are essential as the venue is large

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: London City Airport (LCY)

    London City Airport is the closest and most convenient airport for ExCeL London, offering direct connections to over 30 European and UK destinations. For long-haul, Heathrow and Gatwick are the primary international gateways with extensive global connections

    Visa

    Attending the Café Business Expo as a visitor or exhibitor typically requires either a Standard Visitor Visa (for visa-required nationals) or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (for visa-exempt nationals). The Standard Visitor Visa allows business activities including attending trade fairs, conferences, and meetings for promotional work only, provided the visitor does not engage in direct sales-. It costs £135 (approx. USD 170) and is usually processed within 3 weeks. Visa-exempt nationals must obtain an ETA (£20 / approx. USD 25) before travel -. All visitors must meet the Standard Visitor eligibility requirements even if they do not need a visa

    Processing: Standard Visitor Visa: usually 3 weeks from biometrics appointment-. ETA: usually within 3 working days

    Apply for a visa up to 3 months before travel-. The UK offers priority visa services for faster decisions in some locations-. Attendees may request a visa invitation letter from the event organiser (Fortem International Ltd) to support their application- —contact the organiser directly via the official event website for assistance

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Areas to stay

    Royal Victoria Dock (closest, walkable) · Custom House (Elizabeth line / DLR, west entrance) · Prince Regent (DLR, east entrance) · Canning Town (good transport links) · Royal Albert (budget-friendly, short DLR ride)

    Budget

    $80 - $120 per night

    Mid-range

    $120 - $200 per night

    Premium

    $200 - $350 per night

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Heathrow: Direct Elizabeth line to Custom House (~45 mins)-. City Airport: DLR to Custom House/Prince Regent (~10 mins)-. Gatwick/Stansted: Train to central London then DLR/Elizabeth line

    Hotel → venue: Walk from nearby hotels (Novotel, Aloft, Crowne Plaza)-. For others, DLR or bus to Custom House or Prince Regent stations

    Ride-hail: Uber, Bolt, and taxis widely available with designated drop-off points at both entrances

    Public transit: Elizabeth line and DLR serve Custom House station (west entrance) and Prince Regent (east entrance)-. Jubilee line to Canning Town then DLR is a quick option-. Oyster or contactless payment recommended

    Parking: On-site pay-and-display parking with over 3,000 spaces. Enter via A13 using postcode E16 1FR. Charges apply

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: September

    Temperature: 12°C – 20°C (54°F – 68°F)

    Seasonality: Average rainfall: 44.5 mm, with approximately 5–6 rainy days

    Packing: Pack layers for mild temperatures. A light waterproof jacket or umbrella is advisable due to possible rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the large venue

    Itinerary builder

    Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 08:30Arrive at ExCeL, collect badge, grab coffee
    2. 09:45Opening keynote or seminar
    3. 11:00Exhibition floor walk—visit key suppliers and new product zones
    4. 13:00Lunch break and networking
    5. 14:00Attend panel discussion or product demo
    6. 15:30Final walk around exhibition, follow up on leads
    7. 16:00Show closes, head to nearby attraction or network at The Fox pub

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: Tuesday, 29 September 2026

    The first day is typically less crowded, allowing for easier access to exhibitors and more focused networking. It also provides the full range of seminars and product launches

    T-90

    Confirm your primary objective: source products, network, or explore the market — Define clear goals to make the most of your visit

    T-60

    Register for the event (free) and secure your badge — Registration is available on the official website. Early registration helps avoid queues

    T-45

    Review the exhibitor list and identify key suppliers you want to meet — The exhibitor list is published on the official site and third-party platforms

    T-30

    Plan your schedule: review the seminar and keynote agenda — The event features a packed agenda of panel discussions and live demos

    T-14

    Book travel and accommodation if coming from outside London — ExCeL London is well-connected; nearby hotels include Novotel, Aloft, and Holiday Inn Express

    T-7

    Download any event app or print the floor plan for navigation — An official floor plan may be available closer to the event date

    T-1

    Prepare questions for exhibitors and pack essentials (notepad, business cards, charger) — Bring plenty of business cards for networking

    Day 1

    Arrive early (10:00 AM) to collect your badge and attend the opening sessions — West Entrance is served by Custom House station (Elizabeth line and DLR)

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:30 AM

    Registration, badge collection, and morning welcome coffee at ExCeL London

    ExCeL London Main Entrance Concourse
    09:30 AM

    Attending Opening Plenary Keynote: Future Industry Innovations & Market Outlook at Cafe Business Expo

    ExCeL London Plenary Auditorium
    11:00 AM

    Exhibition floor exploration: live product demonstrations and technology showcases

    ExCeL London Exhibition Halls
    01:00 PM

    Networking luncheon and scheduled B2B supplier matchmaking meetings

    ExCeL London Executive Networking Lounge
    02:30 PM

    Specialized Technical Workshop: Advanced Methodologies, Automation & Best Practices

    ExCeL London Conference Rooms Level 2
    04:30 PM

    Evening Industry Networking Reception and collaborative discussions

    ExCeL London Central Terrace & Hospitality Lounge
    16:00

    Show closes, head to nearby attraction or network at The Fox pub

    ExCeL or nearby

    Side trips

    5

    Thames Barrier Park

    Park

    10-minute walk

    Modern riverside park with landscaped gardens and views of the Thames Barrier – a peaceful escape from the show floor

    IFS Cloud Cable Car

    Attraction

    5-minute walk

    Take a gondola ride across the Thames for panoramic views of London's skyline and the Royal Docks

    The O2

    Entertainment Complex

    15 minutes via cable car or DLR

    Entertainment venue with restaurants, bars, a cinema, and live music. Also home to the Cineworld and various attractions

    Greenwich

    Historic Area

    20 minutes by DLR / bus

    Visit the Royal Observatory (Prime Meridian), National Maritime Museum, and the Cutty Sark

    Canary Wharf

    Business & Shopping District

    10 minutes by DLR

    Modern financial district with shops, restaurants, and the Crossrail Place Roof Garden

    Networking spots

    3

    Hospitality Connect

    Dedicated Networking Area

    A professional networking space within the expo for hospitality leaders to connect and share ideas

    The Fox at ExCeL

    Pub

    A popular on-site pub offering a relaxed atmosphere for informal networking after show hours

    ExCeL London Bars & Cafés

    On-site Venues

    Multiple bars and cafés throughout the venue provide casual meeting spots

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    No exhibitor pricing information is publicly available on the official event website for the 2026 edition

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 9 m² × $390.00/m²$3,510.00
    • Hotel × 2 nights$200.00
    • Per diem × 2$150.00
    • Visa$170.00
    • Insurance$50.00
    • Flight — Economy (short-haul)$150.00
    Estimated total$4,230.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Exhibitor Booth Space

    exhibitor · Shell Scheme

    GBP 200–400 / per sqm

    estimate

    Exhibitor Booth Space

    exhibitor · Raw Space

    GBP 150–300 / per sqm

    estimate

    Parking

    both · Onsite

    GBP 20–25 / per day

    official

    Hotel

    both · Budget

    GBP 65–95 / per night

    estimate

    Hotel

    both · Mid-range

    GBP 95–160 / per night

    estimate

    Hotel

    both · Premium

    GBP 160–280 / per night

    estimate

    Per Diem (meals & incidentals)

    both · Standard

    USD 60–100 / per day

    estimateAs of 2026-09-03

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Based on your answers, here's how Café Business Expo 2026 aligns with your goals. This free-to-attend event at ExCeL London (29–30 September) brings together the UK café sector, featuring hundreds of exhibitors, expert keynotes, and the Sustainability Trail. Use your scores to decide if you should attend as a visitor, exhibit your brand, or consider other options

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    What best describes your primary role in the café and hospitality sector?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    You want to discover new products, meet potential partners, and get inspired without a large upfront investment. Especially recommended if you're within the UK or Europe and can travel affordably

    Best for

    Café owners, operators, baristas, buyers, and hospitality professionals seeking to source products, learn from industry leaders, and network at no cost. Also ideal for suppliers researching the market before committing to exhibition

    Min. budget

    $100.00

    Timeline

    T-30: Register for free; T-14: Plan your day and session schedule; T-1: Confirm travel and accommodation; Day of: Arrive early, collect badge

    Risks

    Crowds may limit access to popular sessions – arrive early

    Travel and accommodation costs in London can be high – book early

    You may not find relevant suppliers if your niche is very specific – check the exhibitor list beforehand

    exhibit

    You have a proven product or service for the café market, a clear sales message, and a budget for a professional stand. You should have sales-ready staff and a plan to capture and follow up leads. Exhibiting is best if you're looking to scale your customer base in the UK or international markets

    Best for

    Suppliers, equipment manufacturers, roasters, technology providers, packaging companies, and service agencies targeting the café and hospitality sectors. Also suitable for established chains and franchises looking to recruit franchisees or promote their brand

    Min. budget

    $1,500.00

    Timeline

    T-90: Secure booth space and plan budget; T-60: Design stand and order materials; T-45: Book travel and accommodation for staff; T-30: Confirm logistics and lead capture tools; T-14: Finalise marketing and meeting schedule

    Risks

    Costs can escalate quickly – shell scheme, raw space, furniture, and staff travel add up

    Competition for attendee attention is high – stand design and promotion are critical

    ROI depends on lead quality and follow-up – have a clear sales process

    If you're a small business, the investment may not be justified without a strong presence

    skip

    If your business is not directly serving the café sector, or if you are based far away and cannot justify the trip. Consider online research or attending a future edition when your readiness improves

    Best for

    Businesses that are not café-focused, have limited budget, or are in early planning stages and need more market validation before investing. Also for those who cannot justify travel costs or have scheduling conflicts

    Timeline

    Not applicable

    Risks

    Missing market intelligence and competitor insights

    Losing potential partnerships or sales opportunities

    Your competitors may gain visibility while you stay home

    Book with

    Partners

    The Beverage Standards Association

    Association Partner

    The Beverage Standards Association serves and represents members' interests by delivering, developing, and endorsing best practice in the industry through training, education, and networking. They are proud partners of the Café Business Expo

    Visit partner Confidence: confirmed

    Confirmed as partner via association website

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    Sustainability Trail
    A curated feature of the Café Business Expo that shines a spotlight on brands leading the way in eco-conscious practices, from ethically sourced ingredients and waste reduction to energy-efficient equipment and sustainable packaging
    2
    Food Service Industry Expo
    A wider umbrella event under which the Café Business Expo and several other hospitality-focused trade shows are co-located, providing attendees access to a full spectrum of industry sectors under one roof

    Trust footer

    Sources

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card