IFEX is Northern Ireland’s largest industry showcase of the latest products in food & drink, interiors, catering equipment, technology and services. IFEX features a range of visitor attractions designed to inspire and engage, but most importantly to impart expert insight into how to run a more profitable business.

Salon Culinaire Belfast

Salon Culinaire at IFEX is a series of culinary competitions designed to nurture and discover Northern Ireland's finest culinary talent. Consisting of two key categories - ChefSkills and Edible Art - Salon Culinaire Belfast raises the bar in terms of culinary skills in Northern Ireland.

Chef Skills Live Theatre

Recognising and discovering some of the industry’s most promising chefs, The ChefSkills comprises of a series of culinary competitions, where many of Northern Ireland's celebrated chefs were first recognised, including Michael Deane, Chris Bell and Roisin Gavin! The competitions culminate in the prestigious Northern Ireland Chef of the Year Competition

Edible Art

Edible Art will showcase the skills and talents of the industry as competing chefs create impressive decorative exhibitions made out of a range of foodstuffs. The finalist’s stunning creations are on display in what can truly be described as an 'edible art gallery'.

World Skills & Wild Food Arena

The World Skills & Wild Food Arena is a dynamic, hands-on demo theatre where energy and inspiration run all day. The morning kicks off with exciting live skills competitions - students go head-to-head in challenges ranging from fish filleting to bed-making, showcasing talent, precision and speed. In the afternoon, the arena transforms into a Wild Food experience, featuring immersive demonstrations that explore foraging, wild ingredients and creative cooking techniques.

Great Taste Market

IFEX 2026 has once again partnered with The Guild of Fine Food – the organisers of the prestigious Great Taste Awards – the world’s largest food and drink accreditation scheme to bring you the Great Taste Market. It is the perfect opportunity to see and taste some of the 2024 award winning products.

IFEX Bar

Learn about what’s hot right now in the drinks world and see the latest trends in the market, and sample some of the most innovative and new drinks brands.

IFEX Innovation Awards

The IFEX Innovation awards showcase new stand out products from our exhibitors. Look out for our finalists in the “Equipment, Design & technology” category, and sample the entries in our Food & Drink category. The awards are judged by an independent panel of experts who are looking for all round excellence.