Africa’s hospitality sector continues to expand, with the continent’s hotel development pipeline reaching 577 hotels and more than 104,000 rooms, growing 13.3% year-on-year. South Africa’s hospitality market is also showing steady growth, with the sector valued at USD 11.49 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 12.19 billion in 2026, growing at a 6.05% CAGR through 2031.
This growth reflects continued investment in hotels, restaurants, bars and wider hospitality venues, including development projects, refurbishments and operational upgrades across the country.
Several factors are supporting this momentum, including rising international tourism, post-pandemic recovery in global travel, government incentives such as the Tourism Recovery Plan and growing demand for boutique hotels and serviced apartments. At the same time, trends such as bleisure travel, digital nomad visas and continued investment in premium local properties are contributing to increased procurement activity across hotels, restaurants, bars and foodservice venues.
Against this investment landscape, Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa 2026 positions itself as a key sourcing platform, connecting suppliers and buyers across South Africa’s growing hotel and tourism economy while linking local businesses to wider regional opportunities.
Taking place from 10 to 12 June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the three-day exhibition is solidifying its role as the premier procurement-led platform for South Africa’s hospitality market. Built around local market needs, the expo supports practical sourcing and decision-making for new hospitality developments, refurbishments and operating venues – from hotels to restaurants, bars and foodservice businesses, making it indispensable for suppliers and buyers navigating the competitive landscape.
“South Africa-led procurement is the lifeblood of our hospitality sector’s growth,” said Margaret Peters, Event Director, Hotel and Hospitality Expo Africa. “This expo is designed to support that demand by bringing buyers and suppliers together in a focused sourcing environment, and our expansion at the CTICC reflects the value the industry places on meeting face-to-face.”
Cape Town’s vibrant setting and the CTICC’s world-class facilities provide an ideal backdrop for meaningful industry engagement, drawing over 5,000 trade visitors and 150+ exhibitors eager to connect on real procurement opportunities.
Santam’s sponsorship underscores the event’s strong industry backing, with the leading insurer supporting a workshop and hosting the exclusive VIP Lounge, a space designed to facilitate high-level networking and business connections.
“Engaging with events like this helps us connect with partners in the industry and gives us an opportunity to really listen to our partners and understand where the needs are and what is required in terms of insurance for this unique, dynamic and thriving industry,” explains Zurina Rinquest, Business Development Manager, Santam.
The 2026 edition will once again be co-located with the Africa Food Show, reflecting the close relationship between hospitality growth and food and beverage procurement across the continent. The co-location creates a broader platform connecting hospitality operators with food and beverage suppliers, manufacturers and distributors.
Alongside the exhibition floor, attendees will have access to a programme of presentations, panel discussions and industry workshops, sponsored by Santam and Kwikot. These sessions will address key topics shaping Africa’s hospitality sector and provide practical insights for professionals looking to strengthen their operations and leadership within the industry.
The event will provide an interactive platform to explore opportunities for investment and innovation, as well as keep abreast of the latest trends. It is part of dmg events’ global hospitality showcase, which includes large-scale events in Dubai and Saudi Arabia.
Registration will open on 18 March 2026 for industry professionals looking to source new products, explore partnerships and gain insight into Africa’s hospitality and foodservice industry.
