Restaurateurs will be hungry for new ideas at ApEx 2010

HALIFAX, April 6 /CNW/ - Atlantic Canada's restaurant industry will gather in Halifax on April 18 and 19 for the ApEx Show, where they will see and sample the latest trends in food, beverages, equipment and technology.

As Atlantic Canada's premier hospitality event, ApEx draws more than 2,500 restaurant and hospitality owners, managers, chefs and executives, offering them key insights to improve business, as well as the chance to meet face to face with suppliers.

"ApEx is a great opportunity to celebrate one of Atlantic Canada's largest and most innovative industries," says Garth Whyte, President and CEO of the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association. "It's also a chance to find out what's new and exciting in the industry while networking with industry colleagues. Given the business challenges of the past year, this event is more important than ever for our industry."

Atlantic Canada's $3.6-billion foodservice industry is made up of 5,000 restaurants, bars and caterers that employ 73,200 people in communities across the region. Many of these businesses are under pressure due to a tough economy and a slide in tourism, and are hungry for new ideas to grow their business and improve their bottom line.

Abuzz with new ideas and products, ApEx will serve up innovative solutions to operators' everyday challenges, and point to tomorrow's trends.

What's new this year?

ApEx debuts the Green Zone, a new value-added feature that showcases various environmental solutions for hospitality operators. From biodegradable and compostable products to energy-efficient ranges, fridges and hoods, this sustainable feature makes it easier to go green.

Also new for 2010 is the ApEx Culinary Salon, where future chefs will test their competitive skills through an assortment of appetizers, entrees and desserts.

Back by popular demand

Returning favourites include the exciting Chef Wars, a two-day culinary battle between restaurant chefs. The popular seminar series at ApEx this year features foodservice consultant David Swanston on Marketing to Win and Dynamic Menus, while industry expert Ron Yudd covers Points of Profit and why No One Escapes Customer Service.

ApEx is owned and operated by the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association, one of the country's leading business associations. Through its trade shows, member savings, research and advocacy, CRFA works to create an environment that allows foodservice operators to grow and prosper.

For further information: Prasanthi Vasanthakumar, CRFA Communications, [phone] or [email protected]