A new immersive Irish pub experience designed for bar owners and drinks suppliers
The Business Post Hospitality Expo 2026 returns to the RDS on the 10th and 11th of February, building on the momentum of its record breaking 2024 show, which welcomed more than 4,000 hospitality professionals.
With over half of 2024 attendees coming from leadership roles across hotels, restaurants and pubs, this year’s event places a strong emphasis on the on trade, a sector that has undergone rapid and sustained change in recent years.
Hospitality Expo 2026 will once again bring together Ireland’s most innovative suppliers, technologies and solutions under one roof. A major new feature for 2026 is the HEX Social Zone, a fully immersive, real feel Irish pub experience, custom built on site to reflect the future of social hospitality venues.
Designed to combine traditional pub culture with modern innovation, the HEX Social Zone responds directly to the challenges facing bar owners and managers today, from attracting customers to increasing dwell time and improving operational efficiency. Attendees will be able to experience the latest in entertainment technology, venue fit out and social engagement tools in a live bar environment.
The feature bar will be fitted to the highest standards and will include:
- Large format screens
- Full bar fit out and bar furniture
- Pool tables
- Gaming machines
- Juke boxes
- Digital darts from leading brand Flyby, a format rapidly growing in popularity
- Mobile power banks from Boosty Powerbanks
- Social and interactive gaming features
- And much more…
Speaking about the new feature, Francis McGinley, Director of the Hospitality Expo, said:
“The HEX Social Zone is not just an exhibit, it is a strategic response to the changing dynamics of the hospitality industry. With ongoing challenges around staffing, rising costs and increased competition, pubs and bars are being pushed to innovate in order to remain viable and attractive.”
The Hospitality Expo team is working closely with companies including “Used Pub and Hotel Equipment”, “The Social Gaming Group”, “Boosty Powerbanks”, “Play and Display”, and “AVL” to deliver this interactive feature. A number of exhibitors will also showcase innovations specifically tailored to bar and pub operators, including:
- Smart optic systems for stock control from Barflo
- Automated cocktail machines
- Next generation beverage dispensers and serving technology
Running alongside the HEX Social Zone is a dedicated content stream on the main stage, focused on the needs of the bar trade. Sessions will be delivered by industry experts and technology providers working at the forefront of bar and venue innovation.
Key topics include:
- The future of the Irish pub
- Staff retention strategies
- Cost saving technologies and automation
- Smart technology solutions for smarter bars
Francis McGinley added:
“The HEX Social Zone will be a standout feature at Hospitality Expo 2026, offering practical ideas and real inspiration for on trade operators looking to future proof their businesses. This initiative is supported through strong partnerships with the Licensed Vintners Association and the Restaurants Association of Ireland.”
The Hospitality Expo is free to attend for those in the industry, you can secure your spot by visiting www.hospitatlityexpo.ie For sponsorship or partnership enquiries, contact Francis at [email protected].
Header image is AI-generated and purely conceptual, designed to give a visual impression of the HEX Social Zone experience.