Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025: A Premier Trade Event for Global Hospitality Businesses

The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025 is a leading international trade show dedicated to the hotel, hospitality, and food service industries, recognized as a vital platform for showcasing innovations, fostering business collaborations, and exploring the latest trends in African hospitality. Held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in Cape Town, South Africa, this expo brings together suppliers, buyers, hoteliers, restaurateurs, and industry professionals from across sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. For businesses and traders on Dirolist.com, the premier B2B BRICS platform, this event offers unparalleled opportunities to tap into South Africa’s thriving hospitality sector, which is part of a projected $33.54 billion African travel and tourism market by 2029. This comprehensive guide is designed to help your business maximize participation, connect with key players, and leverage the growing potential of the African hospitality market.

1. Fair Dates: Opening and Closing

• Opening Date: June 11, 2025

• Closing Date: June 12, 2025

• Duration: 2 days

• Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Convention Square, 1 Lower Long Street, Cape Town, South Africa

• Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily (based on previous years; confirm via official website)

The expo is strategically scheduled in June to align with the global hospitality trade calendar, allowing businesses to plan sourcing and networking effectively. The CTICC, a world-class venue, offers state-of-the-art facilities, including over 30,000 square meters of exhibition space, conference rooms, and dining options, ensuring a professional environment for international attendees. The 2025 edition marks the expo’s first time in Cape Town, a vibrant tourism hub, enhancing its appeal for global businesses.

2. How to Register and Participate

Participation in the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025 is open to exhibitors (suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers) and visitors (buyers, hoteliers, and industry professionals). Below are the steps to register and participate:

For Exhibitors

1. Visit the Official Website: Access the registration portal at Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa or check Global Africa Network for updates if the 2025 portal is not yet live.

2. Complete the Application Form: Provide company details, product categories (e.g., hospitality technology, interior design, catering equipment), and booth preferences (e.g., standard, premium, or custom).

3. Select Booth Size: Options range from 9 sqm to larger custom setups, with pricing varying based on size and location within the CTICC. Download the sales brochure from the website for details.

4. Submit Documents: Include business registration, product certifications, and a brief company profile to verify eligibility.

5. Pay the Registration Fee: Fees depend on booth size and additional services (e.g., sponsorship packages, enhanced visibility). Early bird discounts may apply if registered by March 2025. Contact the organizer for exact pricing.

6. Receive Confirmation: Organizers (dmg events) will confirm booth allocation and provide setup guidelines, including logistics for transporting goods (cranes and forklifts available on-site).

7. Prepare for the Expo: Arrange product displays, marketing materials, and staff training. The organizer offers logistics support through partners for seamless setup. Consider downloading the post-show report from the website to understand attendee demographics and plan effectively.

For Visitors

1. Pre-Register Online: Register as a visitor via Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa. Pre-registration is typically free and ensures faster entry.

2. Provide Details: Submit your name, company, contact information, and business interests (e.g., sourcing hotel furnishings, exploring AI solutions).

3. Receive E-Badge: An electronic badge will be emailed, granting access to all exhibition areas, seminars, and networking zones, including HORECA Connect.

4. Plan Your Visit: Review the exhibitor list and session schedule in advance to prioritize meetings and activities. The event expects over 150 exhibitors and 4,000 visitors from 20+ countries, offering diverse opportunities.

5. On-Site Registration: Available for a nominal fee at the entrance, but pre-registration is recommended to avoid queues. Tickets are reported to be affordable.

Additional Tips

• Book Early: Booth spaces and accommodations in Cape Town fill up quickly. Contact organizers for preferred hotel partners or check CTICC Travel Information for curated options.

• Visa Requirements: International attendees may need a business visa for South Africa. Apply early via South Africa Visa Portal.

• Language Support: English is the primary language, but interpreters for major languages (e.g., Arabic, Chinese) are available on request to facilitate communication.

• Logistics: The CTICC offers transportation services for goods, ensuring smooth setup for exhibitors. Coordinate with organizers for specific needs.

• Cultural Etiquette: Understand South African business culture, emphasizing punctuality, respect for diversity, and building trust through face-to-face interactions.

3. Why Dirolist.com Advises to Attend

Dirolist.com, a leading B2B platform within the BRICS network, strongly recommends attending the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025 for the following reasons:

1. Access to Africa’s Hospitality Market: South Africa’s hospitality sector is a key driver of the African travel and tourism market, projected to reach $33.54 billion by 2029, with hotels comprising nearly half. The expo connects you directly to this dynamic market, which sees growing demand for premium accommodation and “bleisure” travel. For example, a Brazilian supplier at the 2024 expo secured contracts with South African hotel chains.

2. Networking Opportunities: With over 150 exhibitors and 4,000 visitors from 20+ countries, the expo is a hub for forging partnerships with hoteliers, restaurateurs, and suppliers across sub-Saharan Africa and BRICS nations. The HORECA Connect program facilitates targeted B2B meetings.

3. Sourcing Efficiency: Explore a wide range of products—hospitality technology, furniture, catering supplies, and sustainable solutions—in one location, reducing sourcing time and costs. The co-located Africa Food Show enhances opportunities for food service businesses.

4. Innovation Showcase: Discover cutting-edge trends, such as AI-driven revenue management, smart room technologies, and eco-friendly designs, to enhance your offerings and competitiveness. Workshops cover topics like sustainability and digital transformation.

5. Market Insights: Attend seminars led by industry experts, such as Jeff Blackbeard from Moore Global, to gain insights into trends like bleisure travel and sustainable luxury. The African Hospitality Confidence Index, presented at the expo, highlights sector confidence and growth opportunities.

6. BRICS Synergy: The event attracts businesses from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aligning with Dirolist.com’s mission to foster intra-BRICS trade. For instance, Indian tech firms can showcase AI solutions, while Chinese suppliers can meet African buyers seeking cost-effective furnishings.

7. Cost-Effective Exposure: Exhibitors benefit from high ROI through targeted buyer interactions, while visitors access premium industry content at affordable or no cost. The expo’s Hosted Buyer Programme ensures connections with high-value clients.

8. Sustainability Focus: With global demand for eco-friendly practices, the expo highlights sustainable hospitality solutions, helping businesses meet ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals. Awards recognize innovative green initiatives.

9. Investment Opportunities: The expo facilitates connections with investors and decision-makers, enabling joint ventures and market expansion in Africa’s fast-growing hospitality sector, supported by improved international connectivity.

By participating, your business can leverage South Africa’s strategic position, vibrant tourism industry, and BRICS trade networks to strengthen supply chains and market presence.

4. Fair Scopes

The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025 covers the entire hospitality value chain, catering to diverse business needs. Its scope includes:

Product Categories

• Hospitality Technology:

  • AI-driven revenue management systems

  • Smart room automation and security systems

  • Property management software (PMS)

• Interior Design and Furnishings:

  • Hotel furniture (beds, seating, outdoor furniture)

  • Lighting systems and decor

  • Bathroom accessories and spa equipment

• Catering and Kitchen Equipment:

  • Commercial kitchen appliances

  • Tableware and HORECA supplies

  • Food service solutions (co-located with Africa Food Show)

• Operational Supplies:

  • Cleaning and laundry equipment

  • Facility management (FM) solutions

  • Pool and wellness equipment

Service Categories

• Design and Innovation:

  • Interior design studios for hotel refurbishments

  • Trend forecasting for guest experience enhancement

• Sustainability Solutions:

  • Energy-efficient technologies

  • Waste management and recycling systems

• Business Development:

  • Franchising and investment consultancy

  • Procurement and supply chain optimization

• Education and Training:

  • Workshops on AI integration and sustainability

  • Certification programs for hospitality staff

Industry Focus

• Sustainability: Emphasis on eco-friendly designs, renewable energy, and sustainable luxury to meet global ESG standards.

• Digital Transformation: Integration of AI, IoT, and automation to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.

• Bleisure Travel: Catering to the growing trend of business-leisure travelers with flexible, high-end accommodations.

• Global Trade: Facilitating exports and partnerships within BRICS and African markets, leveraging South Africa’s tourism hub status.

The expo’s comprehensive scope ensures businesses of all sizes—from startups to multinational suppliers—find relevant products, services, and partners to drive growth.

5. Other Useful Information

Event Highlights

• Seminars and Workshops: Over 20 sessions covering AI in hospitality, sustainable luxury, and procurement 4.0. Speakers include industry leaders and representatives from the African Hospitality Confidence Index.

• HORECA Connect: A dedicated B2B matchmaking program for hotel, restaurant, and catering professionals to meet targeted buyers.

• Africa Food Show: Co-located event showcasing food and beverage solutions, enhancing sourcing opportunities for hospitality businesses.

• Innovation Zone: Displays cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-powered check-in systems and sustainable furnishings, offering insights into future trends.

• Sustainability Awards: Recognizes exhibitors with outstanding eco-friendly innovations, boosting visibility for green businesses.

Travel and Accommodation

• Getting to Cape Town:

  • By Air: Cape Town International Airport (CPT), 20 km from CTICC, offers direct flights from BRICS cities (e.g., São Paulo, Moscow, Mumbai).

  • By Train: Cape Town Railway Station connects to regional cities, with taxi access to CTICC.

  • Local Transport: Taxis, Uber, and shuttles are available. The MyCiTi bus stops near CTICC.

• Recommended Hotels:

  • Westin Cape Town (5-star, 0.5 km from CTICC)

  • Southern Sun The Cullinan (4-star, 1 km from CTICC)

  • Budget Options: Check CTICC Travel Information for curated lists.

• Booking Tip: Reserve accommodations by March 2025 to secure competitive rates, as Cape Town hotels fill up during major trade shows.

Safety and Support

• Health Protocols: On-site medical facilities and adherence to local health guidelines ensure a safe environment.

• Business Support: dmg events provides matchmaking services to connect exhibitors with targeted buyers, enhancing business outcomes.

• Language Assistance: Multilingual staff (English, Arabic, etc.) ensure smooth communication for international attendees.

Market Context

• South Africa’s Hospitality Sector: A key player in Africa’s tourism market, driven by a young population (projected 2.5 billion by 2050) and growing international connectivity. The sector benefits from government initiatives like the Tourism Transformation Council.

• Growth Potential: The expo aligns with Africa’s status as the world’s second-fastest-growing region for travel in 2024, with strong demand for quality accommodations.

• BRICS Relevance: South Africa’s trade ties with Brazil, Russia, India, and China make the expo a strategic entry point for BRICS businesses. For example, Chinese suppliers exported $50 million in hotel furnishings to Africa in 2024.

6. Full Contact Information

For inquiries and support, contact the organizers directly:

• Organizer: dmg events

• Address: Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London, W8 5TT, United Kingdom

• Phone: +27 21 700 5500 (South Africa office)

• Email: info@dmgevents.com

• Website: Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa or Global Africa Network for updates

• Event Manager: Ms. Margaret Peters, Event Manager

  • Email: margaretpeters@dmgevents.com

  • Phone: +27 21 700 5500

• International Queries:

  • Contact Person: Global Events Team

  • Email: global@dmgevents.com

  • Phone: +44 20 7176 1111

• Dirolist.com Support: For tailored assistance for BRICS businesses, email Dirolist at support@dirolist.com or visit Dirolist.com.

Social Media

• LinkedIn: Follow Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa for updates on exhibitors and sessions.

• Twitter/X: Check #HotelExpoAfrica2025 for real-time event news.

Conclusion

The Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2025 is a must-attend event for businesses seeking to capitalize on South Africa’s booming hospitality sector and expand their global reach. Dirolist.com encourages its B2B community to participate, leveraging the expo’s extensive scope, networking opportunities, and focus on innovation and sustainability. Whether you’re sourcing advanced hospitality technologies, exploring sustainable furnishings, or building partnerships within the BRICS network, this event is your gateway to success. Register today, plan your visit, and position your business at the forefront of the African hospitality trade.