Lessons learnt from local and international hospitality leaders, buyers and producers will be shared at Fine Food Queensland, scheduled for April 13-15, 2014.

More than 200 leading exhibitors are expected to join 6000-plus buyers from across the foodservice and hospitality industries for the event, which is the only independent regional trade show developed specifically to connect Queensland’s food industry.

For bakers, pastry chefs and affiliated suppliers, Bakery World will provide an excellent platform for visitors to compare specialised ingredients, equipment, finished products, merchandising and point-of-sale products.

New to this year’s show, Baking Association Australia will conduct demonstrations with industry products, so bakers can see the latest techniques in artisan breads, traditional cake decorating, pies and pastries.

The popular trade show has played an important role in the Queensland retail, foodservice and hospitality sector for two decades and, this year, organisers have announced important program additions to reflect the state’s changing food industry.

“The past 18 to 24 months have been tough for hospitality in Queensland. Brisbane operators in particular have felt the pinch as new bars, restaurants and cafés have opened, and leading names have pulled up stumps and closed their doors for a range of reasons,” exhibition manager Minnie Constan said.

“There’s myriad of factors that affect each and every business, from suppliers and producers, to the restaurant owners and staff; this much-lauded paddock-to-plate process is often brutal and Fine Food Queensland will next year host a range of forums and masterclasses with industry leaders, to recognise and assist all parts of this food chain.”

New elements to the event will include a fresh food market, panel discussions on trends and growth strategy, live kitchens, a beverage theatre and a business program centering on the local needs and international trends.

Free online registration is now open at www.finefoodqueensland.com.au.