Raising the Bar: Record Attendance Marks Success of Bar & Restaurant Expo 2024 in Las Vegas

Exploring Innovation and Excellence: Highlights from the Record-Breaking Bar & Restaurant Expo 2024 in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – The Bar & Restaurant Expo, a cornerstone event in the hospitality industry, made a triumphant return to the Las Vegas Convention Center from March 18 to 20, attracting a record-breaking attendees, representing an impressive 8% increase compared to the previous year. Against the backdrop of the vibrant Las Vegas Strip, industry insiders, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts alike gathered to immerse themselves in the latest trends, innovations, and opportunities shaping the bar and restaurant landscape.

The excitement peaked on Tuesday, March 19, with the official opening of the expo floor, marked by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by celebrated mixologist Julie Reiner. Following her captivating keynote address, attendees streamed onto the expo floor, eager to explore the offerings of over 500 exhibitors – a significant uptick from previous years, showcasing the industry’s dynamism and growth.

Among the new attractions at this year’s expo was the Pizza Zone, a culinary oasis sponsored by Parpan, where attendees could sample the latest artisanal toppings and crust innovations. The Cocktail Clubhouse, another standout feature, provided a dynamic space for industry professionals to exchange ideas, discover new techniques, and elevate their craft.

In addition to the bustling expo floor, attendees had the opportunity to participate in educational workshops, panel discussions, and live demonstrations led by industry experts. The event also served as a platform for recognizing excellence within the industry, with prestigious awards such as the Industry Excellence Awards and the inaugural Supplier Awards honoring standout performers and innovators.

A highlight of the expo was the United States Bartender’s Guild (USBG) Shake It Up competition, which showcased the extraordinary talent and creativity of bartenders from across the country. After intense rounds of competition, Yolanda Gregg emerged as the 2024 USBG National Champion, earning the opportunity to represent the USBG at the prestigious IBA World Cocktail Championship in Portugal.

Looking ahead, organizers are already gearing up for the next edition of the Bar & Restaurant Expo, scheduled for March 24-26, 2025. With a commitment to delivering unparalleled value and experiences to attendees, the expo promises to continue serving as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and success within the industry. As anticipation builds for the next gathering at the Las Vegas Convention Center, industry professionals can expect another unforgettable showcase of the best and brightest in bar and restaurant innovation.

About the Author

Editor-at-Large Alan Merritt

Administrator

Alan Merritt is an international journalist and editor with over 12 years of experience across global news, television, and magazine media. Based in Las Vegas, with ties to New York and Paris, he serves as Editor-at-Large at Just Now News, a leading platform recognized for its Unscripted, Unfiltered, Unmissable coverage. In this role, he contributes a wide range of stories spanning human interest, culture, business, technology, and global affairs, bringing depth, clarity, and a global perspective to every piece.


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