An invitation-only experience for foodservice operators.
With 700+ exhibitors across three days, there’s a lot to discover at your first NAFEM Show. The Hosted Buyer Program helps you make the most of every minute — from who to meet to where to go.
Before you arrive, your concierge builds a custom itinerary around your operation and sourcing priorities. Your meetings are pre-scheduled with manufacturers who are relevant to you — no wandering the floor wondering where to start. The Hosted Buyer Lounge is your private home base: meals, refreshments, a place to recharge between meetings and a dedicated point of contact whenever you need one.
Attending The NAFEM Show was an incredible experience for our team. The event provided us with a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore the latest innovations in foodservice equipment, and gain valuable insights into the evolving trends shaping the future of our industry. We were able to network with professionals from all over the world, making meaningful connections that will benefit our business for years to come. The range of products and solutions showcased was impressive, and we left the show feeling inspired and excited about the future. We’re already looking forward to the next show!
– Jennifer, Pry, Quest Food Management Services
I am truly grateful for every aspect of being a Hosted Buyer for The NAFEM Show 2025 in Atlanta. It was an incredible experience for many reasons. Being a Hosted Buyer allowed me to attend all the great events during the show, including several fantastic meals and an unforgettable event at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Additionally, I arranged multiple meetings with a variety of vendors who walked me through their products and demonstrated how they could be integrated into my current foodservice program to enhance its efficiency and functionality. I also gathered numerous new ideas about what I can achieve in my program. I discovered options for my program that I wasn’t aware of prior to attending NAFEM and interacting with the vendors at the event. My only regret is that it lasted only three days, as there were a few booths I wanted to visit but simply ran out of time. It was a remarkable experience to be a Hosted Buyer, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested.
– Richard, Mallard, Eanes ISD
Attending The NAFEM Show was very valuable. While purchasing and maintaining equipment for approximately 150 locations, I am often speaking with manufacturers, reps, and contractors from across the country. NAFEM provided me with an opportunity to meet, face-to-face, with many of the people I have only spoken to over the phone or through a contract. I was also able to see new product lines, demo new technology, and gather a large amount of research for current and future projects. The energy was exciting, and the networking was inspirational. Looking forward to The NAFEM Show 2027!
– Danielle, Pastore, Pinellas County Schools
What’s Included
Join us where perfect plates meet profitability — fully covered.
Accepted participants receive a curated, concierge-level experience valued at up to $2,000:
Complimentary show registration, including Training Time
Airfare or mileage allowance (up to $500)
Up to four nights in a NAFEM-selected hotel
Complimentary tickets to NAFEM-hosted networking events (The Kickoff Party and The NAFEM Party)
Meals, refreshments and a dedicated concierge in the exclusive Hosted Buyer Lounge on the show floor
What We Ask of You
Accepted participants are expected to:
Attend The NAFEM Show all three days: Thursday, Feb. 11, Friday, Feb. 12, and Saturday, Feb. 13, 2027
Complete 15 scheduled meetings (five per day) with exhibitors on the show floor
Share a brief testimonial about your experience (video or written)
Hold purchasing authority or influence over foodservice E&S decisions
Be a first-time attendee to The NAFEM Show (or have not attended since 2019 or earlier)
Up to three participants per company may be accepted. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance. NAFEM personally reviews every application. E&S dealers/distributors, manufacturers’ reps, and foodservice design or MAS consultants are not eligible.
This program accepts a limited number of participants per show. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and spots are allocated as qualified candidates are confirmed.
Request an Invitation
Spots are limited and reviewed on a rolling basis. If you qualify, we’d like to personally invite you.
