Spanish Horeca equipment strengthens its position in the United States with the help of AFEHC at the NRA Show 2026

 

La Association of Spanish Manufacturers and Exporters of Equipment for the Hospitality and Catering Industry (AFEHC) has coordinated the twenty-fourth group participation of Spanish companies in the fair NRA Show 2026 (National Restaurant Association Show). Held from May 16-19 at the fairgrounds McCormick Place de ChicagoThe event reaffirms Estados Unidos as a priority market for the national equipment industry foodservice.

 

A strategic showcase in the main non-European market

 

Considered a reference quote in Estados Unidos for the restaurant industry, the NRA Show It brings together a comprehensive offering that ranges from food to state-of-the-art equipment for the hospitality industry. This historic event, with origins dating back to 1919, is organized by Informa in collaboration with National Restaurant Associatio, the main employers' association in the sector in the country, which represents more than one million establishments.

 

In this edition, a group of seven Spanish manufacturers presented their latest innovations under the umbrella of the sector brand. Horeca Equipment from Spai, an initiative promoted by AFEHC to enhance the image and international prestige of Spanish equipment.

 

Spanish companies participating in the group event of NRA Show 2026

 

Participating Company
Azkoyen Group
García de Pou
Gesame
Infrico
Mibrasa
Onnera Group
Sammic

 

Institutional support and visibility strategy

 

This commercial action is part of the Sector Plan for the Internationalization of Hospitality Equipment 2026a program designed by AFEHC which has the support of ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones. Choosing Estados Unidos This is no coincidence, as it remains the top destination for the sector's exports outside of Europa and, therefore, it is listed as a strategic market in the association's calendar.

 

To maximize the impact of the Spanish presence, AFEHC implemented a email marketing campaign targeted at a qualified database of potential buyers and distributors in the US market, thus reinforcing the visibility of exhibiting brands.

 

In addition to the group participation, it is worth highlighting the individual presence of other companies associated with AFEHCas the Arave, ITV Ice Makers, My Drap, Zumex o ZummoThis demonstrates the sector's strong commitment to this market.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the presence of the Spanish Horeca sector in the United States

 

Why is the United States market so important for Spanish hospitality equipment?

It is the leading export destination outside of Unión Europea for the sector. With over a million businesses in the restaurant and catering industry foodserviceThis represents a constant and high-volume demand for innovative and high-quality equipment, a niche in which Spanish companies are highly competitive.

 

What kind of support does AFEHC offer to companies that want to export to this market?

AFEHC It facilitates entry and consolidation in complex markets through actions such as organizing group participation in key trade fairs such as NRA ShowThis reduces costs and increases visibility under the umbrella brand. Horeca Equipment from Spai and benefits from the institutional support of organizations such as ICEX.

 

What are the business consequences for a Spanish SME of participating in the NRA Show?

Participating in this event allows a Spanish manufacturer to directly access the main distributors, importers and restaurant chains of NorteaméricaIt is a key platform for presenting new products, analyzing market trends, establishing strategic business contacts, and strengthening brand image in a highly competitive environment.