Food

Acclaimed Chef Dylan McGrath Set To Open IFEX

By Robert McHugh
Acclaimed Chef Dylan McGrath Set To Open IFEX

In just three weeks’ time, Dylan McGrath, who is one of the industry’s most renowned and celebrated chefs, is set to open the doors to IFEX 2024, where thousands of visitors and almost 200 exhibitors are expected to attend across three days.

Taking place in the Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast, from 5 to 7 March, IFEX 2024 will shine a spotlight on the latest industry technologies, innovative ideas, and new-product launches, alongside promoting some of the finest culinary talent that Northern Ireland has to offer.

‘Honoured And Delighted’

“I am honoured and delighted to officially open IFEX 2024. It’s a very exciting time for the Northern Ireland foodservice and hospitality industry, which has cemented itself as a global leader in terms of excellence,” said McGrath.

Born in Dublin and raised in Belfast, McGrath joins a long list of celebrity chefs who have officially opened IFEX in recent years, including French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli and Michelin-starred chef and restauranteur Michael Deane.

“I’m particularly excited to see our upcoming chefs in action during the array of Salon Culinaire competitions and have no doubt that we will discover some outstandingly skilled chefs, which is what IFEX is renowned for,” said McGrath.

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One-Stop Shop

At the heart of IFEX is Salon Culinaire – Northern Ireland’s largest and most prestigious chef competition – wherein the IFEX Northern Ireland Chef of the Year is crowned.

Also returning is the Great Taste Market, the IFEX Bar, and – helping to address an industry-wide problem – the Northern Ireland Hospitality Core Skills Hub, a hands-on demo area showcasing the very many services and opportunities available across the sector.

Find out more about what’s happening at the show here.

‘Cornerstone Expo’

“IFEX is one of NI’s longest-running trade shows and has been the cornerstone expo for the foodservice, catering, retail and hospitality industries for many years,” said Toby Wand, managing director of 365 Events Ltd.

“Needed more than ever before, IFEX is crucial for galvanising the industry and driving new business for exhibitors.”

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Hospitality Sector

The show opens daily at 10am and runs until 6pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, and to 4pm on Thursday.

Those wishing to register for a free ticket can do so at www.ifexexhibition.co.uk.