Africa Food Show 2026: Driving resilient supply chains and health-focused FMCG growth.
The African food and beverage market is undergoing significant transformation. With South African private-label FMCG sales expected to reach $5.9 billion in 2024, consumer priorities are shifting towards nutrition, freshness, and affordability. Over 60% of shoppers now demand healthier, cost-effective options, pushing supermarkets to prioritise local sourcing, cost resilience, and longer shelf life.
These trends will take centre stage at the Africa Food Show 2026, Africa’s leading buyer-led trade event, scheduled for 10–12 June at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The event is a hub for procurement leaders, offering insights into the global specialty food market, which is projected to grow from $236 billion to $433 billion by 2032.
Shaping resilient supply chains
To meet growing consumer demands, businesses are strengthening local supply chains through direct farm relationships, regional blends, and waste upcycling initiatives. Lorraine Makhura, Head of Research, Development & Innovations at McCain Foods, emphasises the importance of domestically sourced opportunities:
“Domestically sourced opportunities should be non-negotiable; as this builds resilience and supports our route-to-market strategies across diverse African markets.”
Hosted buyer programme: Connecting buyers and suppliers
The Africa Food Show’s Hosted Buyer Programme pre-qualifies procurement leaders from major retailers like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, and SPAR. In 2025, this programme facilitated over 3,147 buyer–supplier meetings, ensuring exhibitors connect with high-quality buyers who prioritise health-forward, shelf-stable products.
Co-located opportunities
Co-located with the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa, the event offers crossover opportunities for suppliers to engage with decision-makers from the broader hospitality, foodservice, and retail sectors.
Why attend Africa Food Show 2026?
- Meet key buyers: Engage with procurement leaders from top African retailers and foodservice operators.
- Discover trends: Learn about the latest in health-forward FMCG products and resilient supply chains.
- Expand networks: Build partnerships with suppliers and buyers across diverse African markets.
