Australia’s only exhibition aimed solely at the hospitality industry, Foodservice Australia, returns to Sydney from May 25-27, 2014, and promises to be bigger and better than ever.

The expanded show is running at the Royal Hall of Industries at Moore Park. The extra space will be used house more exhibitors, a regional producers pavilion and the new Café School focusing on the lunch and food-to-go trade.

For bakers and pastry chefs, highlights will undoubtedly include the inaugural World Chocolate Masters, along with free business workshops and demonstrations.

The trade show will also be home to the Australia’s Best Pie Competition, which, for the first time, will include a gluten-free category.

The decision of the Baking Association of Australia to expand the national competition to include special dietary requirements has been met with excitement from bakers, who are keen to serve the growing gluten-free customer base.

Shila Barak, marketing co-ordinator for competition sponsor Well and Good, said Australian companies are continually refining and innovating products to improve the taste, texture and functionality of gluten-free and allergy aware food.

“This is an important market segment and we look forward to seeing some of the inspiring creations from Australia’s talented Gluten Free bakers,” she said.

Event director Tim Collett said the Café School will be an exciting new addition to the show, offering practical workshops and coffee masterclasses.

“This will appeal to anyone who operates casual dining; a sector that has experienced steady growth despite the challenging economic climate of recent years,” he said.

While competitions, events and workshops are always exciting aspects of Foodservice Australia, Mr Collett said the main attraction for buyers is being able to meet suppliers and manufacturers face-to-face, to get advice and information, to see products in action and to negotiate a great deal.

“You just can’t grow your business if you don’t investigate the latest trends, ingredients, equipment and suppliers,” he said.

A new exhibitor highlight will be the Regional Producers Pavilion, showcasing boutique food, drink and ingredient suppliers from all across Australia. Here, visitors will literally be able to taste the sector’s new ideas and meet the producers behind the products.

Major food companies at the show will include Fonterra, Parmalat, Callebaut and Goodman Fielder, with big name equipment suppliers including Comcater, Robot Coupe, Unox, MKA and Euroquip.

Free visitor registration, information and competition entry forms are available at www.foodserviceaustralia.com.au.