The North’s leading hospitality trade show returns to Manchester Central on 10-11th March 2026, alongside lunch! NORTH
The North of England’s vibrant hospitality industry will once again take the spotlight next March as Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) (sponsored by Uber Eats) returns to Manchester Central, taking place on 10-11th March 2026. The 2026 event promises two insight-packed days celebrating the people, products and creativity that make the North one of the UK’s most exciting hospitality hubs.
Running alongside NRB for its second year, lunch! NORTH will shine a dedicated light on the café, coffee shop and food-to-go markets. Together, the two shows form the North’s biggest meeting point for hospitality professionals looking to connect, learn and source what’s next.
Exhibitors
NRB26 will host over 400 exhibitors, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest innovations in food, drink, equipment, furniture, interior design, technology, and services. Confirmed exhibitors for 2026 include Uber Eats, Budweiser, Lightspeed HQ, Nisbets, Steelite International, La Tua Pasta, Frobishers Juices, Monin, Martins Craft Bakery, Coca-Cola EuroPacific Partners, Worldpay, Cambrook Foods Ltd, Catering Equipment, and Stephensons.
Keynote Theatre, Panels and Live Demonstrations
NRB26 will once again deliver a packed programme of expert talks and live sessions to give operators strategic insights and creative inspiration. Last year’s speakers included Simon Potts, CEO of The Alchemist and Roy Ellis, CEO of Mission Mars, who both discussed their growing brands and expansion.
In the Keynote Theatre, the 2026 show promises another two days packed with expert talks, panels and live demonstrations, designed to give operators actionable insights to navigate today’s changing industry landscape.
The Chef Live Theatre will showcase the region’s most talented chefs for cooking demonstrations, showcasing techniques, ingredients and unique skills. Meanwhile, the Pub & Bar theatre will feature unmissable talks and panels from some of the biggest regional and national operators of pubs, cocktail bars, wine bars and more.
Kuits NRB Top Fifty
Day one of NRB26 will see the unveiling of the 13th Kuits NRB Top Fifty, the list celebrating the North’s most influential hospitality operators. Judged by leading industry experts, the list recognises those making an outstanding contribution to the sector.
Last year’s winners were Archies, known for its unique experiential leisure concept, The Inn Collection Groups recognised for its several awards and commitment to people and Joe & Daniel Schofield and James Brandon for their lasting impact on Manchester’s Bar Scene.
NRB26 remains the cornerstone gathering for the North’s hospitality community, bringing together thousands of industry professionals, suppliers, and innovators to share ideas, discover new products, and build valuable connections. Last year’s show saw a 13.4% increase in attendance, reflecting its growing influence across the industry. The show offers unmatched value for networking, showcasing cutting-edge trends, and driving business growth.
Northern Restaurant & Bar 26, co-located with lunch! NORTH, takes place on 10-11th March 2026 at Manchester Central. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the North’s largest and most dynamic hospitality event of the year. From award-winning chefs and leading suppliers to trailblazing operators, NRB26 has something for everyone in the industry.
Register now for your free trade tickets and join the celebration of the North’s hospitality excellence. Visit www.northernrestaurantandbar.co.uk for more information and tickets.
