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Milan, 17 June 2025 – From smart automation to AI-driven menus, and sustainability influencing choices and consumption habits, hospitality and out-of-home experiences are undergoing an unprecedented evolution: to offer customers increasingly multisensory and immersive experiences, cutting-edge technologies are merging with design and functionality to create hi-tech yet welcoming solutions.

These trends are driving market growth: according to ExportPlanning data, in 2024 the global production of the sectors represented at Host 2025 amounts to €189.9 billion, with professional foodservice equipment leading the way, posting a +8.6% increase over the previous year. In this context of global growth, Italy reaffirms its leading role in exports: as highlighted by ICE – the Italian Trade Agency for the promotion and internationalisation of Italian companies – our country holds the global leadership in Coffee and Vending Machines with a 29.8% market share, is co-leader in Bakery and Pastry Machines (28.8%), right after China, and maintains a solid position in Gelato and Refrigeration Machines with a 10.5% share.

The place to be for companies and professionals from around the world

In this dynamic scenario, Fiera Milano presents Host 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for hospitality, out-of-home and food retail: the place to be to preview the trends shaping the future of global hospitality.

Five months before the official opening, on 17 October, over 1,700 exhibitors are already registered – from top players to outstanding SMEs – with 44% of them coming from 54 different countries. Alongside Italy, the most active countries include Germany, Spain, France, the Netherlands, the United States, and the United Kingdom. There are also many new entries from South America and Southeast Asia.

 These companies will meet with over 700 hosted buyers from around 75 countries, highly qualified also thanks to the support of ICE – the Italian Trade Agency. Key target sectors include: distributors, retailers, exporters/importers; restaurants, food service and out-of-home; retail and large-scale distribution; hospitality businesses; shopping centres and venues; chefs, professionals and consultants. The main foreign regions of origin are the Americas (35%), the Middle East and Africa (28%), Asia and Oceania (14%), as well as Europe and CIS countries (24%).

 Host 2025 will offer a comprehensive overview of innovation in the sector, alongside in-depth focus areas in specific segments, organised by supply chain affinity: Professional Foodservice and Bakery-Pasta-Pizza; Coffee-Tea, Bar-Coffee Machines-Vending, Gelato-Pastry; Tableware-Technology-Contract Furnishing.

 Spotlight on Artisan Baking with the renewed MIPPP

Within this broad cross-sector overview of hospitality, Artisan Baking stands out. As consumers increasingly seek products combining craftsmanship and wellbeing, technology and solution providers are responding with innovations that speak the language of digitalisation, energy efficiency, and controlled quality.

Thanks to this ongoing innovation capability, according to a Grand View Research report, the global bakery equipment market has reached a value of around $14 billion, with a projected annual growth of 6.7% until 2030. In particular, the segment of equipment for pizza base production is set to grow, driven by increasing demand for gourmet pizzas, including organic and gluten-free varieties.

To meet these market demands, Host 2025 is strengthening the MIPPP – Milano Bakery Pizza Pasta area, thanks in part to a partnership with the SIPAN Consortium, which will bring together the most important Italian manufacturers of bakery equipment. MIPPP will be complemented by Bakery Square, an arena dedicated to training, events, competitions and workshops to promote the culture of artisan baking. It will also host the prestigious Panettone World Championship and the European Pizza Championship.

The bar and coffee world prepares for an increasingly specialty-driven future

Alongside bakery, the other face of the increasingly experience-oriented evolution of out-of-home consumption is the bar and coffee world, which is also undergoing major transformations. From endless iced coffee recipes to nitro coffee prepared with liquid nitrogen, consumers are seeking a special, personalized touch in venues capable of creating a multisensory experience.

This dynamism is also reflected in the numbers: combining at-home and out-of-home consumption, Statista estimates that the global market closed 2024 with a value of $461.30 billion, is projected to exceed the $500 billion threshold in 2028, and is expected to reach $521.90 billion by the end of the decade.

Host 2025 will feature the bar and coffee sectors with SIC – the International Coffee Exhibition, a global benchmark where the entire Italian and international supply chain is represented, from green bean to cup. This year, SIC also welcomes the much-anticipated return to Milan of the World Barista Championship, the most prestigious global competition for baristas.

360-degree innovation across all sectors

In keeping with Host Milano’s unique exhibition concept, innovation takes center stage not only in bakery and bar, but across all sectors. Adjacent to SIC, the Gelato and Pastry areas will showcase the best in their respective industries, from machinery to semi-finished products, and from accessories to ingredients.

Focus will be on design in the areas dedicated to Furnishings-Technology and Tableware, which have become essential events in the calendars of executives in contract design, hospitality, and food retail. In recent editions, in fact, Host Milano has evolved from a historic benchmark for technology to a trendsetting event for formats and layouts.

The growing focus on planning and design is further confirmed by the continued development of Smart Label – Host Innovation Award, the prize promoted by HostMilano and Fiera Milano in partnership with POLI.design and under the patronage of ADI – the Association for Industrial Design. Now in its seventh edition, the award has attracted over 950 applications over the years.

From training to show-cooking and competitions

Complementing the exhibition path, the visitor experience at Host 2025 will be enriched by a packed schedule of events.

There will be no shortage of starred chefs – both established and up-and-coming – who will share their secrets in exciting show-cooking sessions, and master pizza chefs who will captivate audiences with contemporary and innovative reinterpretations of this great icon of Italian cuisine. The program will also include in-depth discussions with experts, organized in collaboration with partner associations.

Part of the road to Milan also includes the event’s international positioning strategy, which aims to engage potential exhibitors and visitors – and stakeholders in general – directly in key target markets.

In addition to its established presence at major global industry events, Host Milano is expanding its international reach through dedicated events such as Host Arabia, a new spin-off designed to create more business and networking opportunities in the professional hospitality sector. Organized by Fiera Milano in collaboration with local partner Semark, the event will take place from 15 to 17 December 2025 in Riyadh, in conjunction with Saudi HORECA, thus becoming a new strategic hub for networking and innovation in the heart of the Middle East.

The appointment with the 44th edition is at Fiera Milano, Rho district, from 17 to 21 October 2025.

For information on how to exhibit:

Stand inquiry (fieramilano.it)

To pre-register as a professional visitor:

https://host.fieramilano.it/en/visitare/biglietteria.html

 
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CALGARY, AB — ’s big summer.

The entertainment powerhouse behind some of Western Canada’s most influential venues and festivals, Blueprint is officially unveiling a new era for one of Calgary’s most beloved cultural spaces, . With a 14-year legacy in the city, the venue is now undergoing a top-to-bottom refresh, just in time to mark Blueprint’s growing investment in Calgary and Alberta at large.

A New Chapter for Commonwealth: Music. Culture. Community.

Known for curating a diverse mix of popular and underground club music, cultural events, and concerts of every genre, Commonwealth has long held space as the cornerstone of Calgary’s creative nightlife. Now, the venue is getting a bold facelift.

Renovation highlights include:

  • A full rebrand including logo, visuals, and a new slogan:
  • Music. Culture. Community.
  • crafted by acclaimed Calgary born and raised designer Rory Doyle
  • The official launch of Common Underground, the venue’s lower level
  • Immersive, cutting-edge LED lighting design by Canadian veterans Urban Visuals
  • A newly expanded stage and fully updated green rooms
  • Enhanced VIP sections and an enlarged mezzanine for premium views
  • A slick new bar on the lower level, freeing up more space to dance
  • Total bathroom renovations, you’re welcome
  • Fresh murals and artistic expressions led by Calgary local XYZ aka Rhys Farrell
  • Bigger and better dance floor upstairs for more room to move

Blueprint’s reimagining of Commonwealth isn’t just aesthetic, it’s a statement that they’re committed to investing in Calgary’s cultural landscape

Calgary, Meet Blueprint Entertainment

With a legacy built in Vancouver’s music and nightlife scene, Blueprint is bringing its next wave of energy, infrastructure, and ambition to Alberta. The company, which ranks among the largest lifestyle and entertainment firms in Western Canada, has been looking seriously at Calgary for some time as the next cultural cultural capital in the country. 

“There’s real momentum in Calgary right now. There’s real buzz, growth, and energy, which is everything we want to be part of,” says Alvaro Prol, Founder of Blueprint. “This isn’t a one-off. We’re here to build a lasting cultural footprint and become a true part of the city’s nightlife and entertainment communities. The people of Calgary are incredible, the City is welcoming, and we’re grateful for the support. The vibe of the city is like nowhere else in Canada.”

As the owners and operators of two of Vancouver’s cultural institutions - and , Blueprint has been providing that city with cutting edge events for almost 30 years. In addition, the company is already behind some of the region’s biggest festivals, , Chasing Summer, and ). Blueprint is always looking for new opportunities and long-term investments in Alberta’s live entertainment ecosystem.

Badlands Music Festival - The City’s Music-Forward Tent

The Calgary Stampede might be all about cowboy boots and country music, but Blueprint’s offers something new and fresh entirely.

As a music-forward tent during Stampede, Badlands is Blueprint’s flagship festival play in Alberta. Going into their seventh year, it’s a genre-defining moment for Calgary’s summer festival season, and the lineup speaks for itself. 2025 sees the festival with two fully programmed stages and more artists than ever. The year is looking to be a sellout series of shows with general admission, the coveted “Outlaw” pass, and VIP tickets on the verge of being completely sold out.

2025 Headliners include:
Tiesto, FISHER, Zedd, RL Grime, Boiler Room, Gryffin, Cloonee, Subtronics, and many more. Full lineup at

The Future of Western Canada Lives Here

With Commonwealth’s relaunch, Badlands' explosive growth, and new Alberta-based projects on the horizon, Blueprint is investing in Calgary like never before. The company has a long history of giving the people what they want and with the incredible fans and strong community, this is the right time and place for Blueprint to support the growth of the culture. 

To stay up to date on Blueprint in Alberta including upcoming shows, venue announcements, and behind-the-scenes looks at the Commonwealth renovation, follow on Instagram.

The new era of Commonwealth arrives later this summer. Don’t miss it.

 
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BARDSTOWN, Ky. (June 24, 2025) - Heaven Hill is proud to unveil the Second Edition of its Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, a limited-edition release that continues the legacy of its celebrated series. Crafted by America’s largest family-owned and operated distillery, this small-batch expression reflects the full journey of whiskey making from carefully selected ingredients to final bottling and showcases the transparency and craftsmanship for which Heaven Hill Distillery is known.

The 2025 edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Rye Whiskey is made with a mashbill of 63% rye, 20% corn, and 13% malt— a higher rye content than Heaven Hill’s traditional Rye Whiskey. Beck’s Hybrids 6225 was the corn seed varietal chosen for the second edition and was grown by family-owned Peterson Farms on one of two sites in Nelson County, Kentucky. The distillate went into the barrel at 107 proof and was aged for over six years at Heaven Hill’s Cox’s Creek rickhouse site. The product is non-chill filtered and bottled at barrel proof, 105.2 proof (52.6% ABV) which allows its unique mashbill to shine. The result is a bold, spicy rye whiskey with aromas of toasted oak and almonds, leading to a robust palate of creamy orange marmalade, chocolate with nutmeg, white pepper spices and honey sweetness. The finish is long and warm with crème brûlée, charred oak, and orange oil with rye spices.

“With this second edition of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Rye, we’re proud to showcase not only the art of rye whiskey making but the full story behind every drop—from seed to barrel to bottle,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery. “The unique mashbill and higher rye content bring a bold complexity, while the transparency we provide—from the corn varietal to the barrel entry proof—gives whiskey lovers an authentic connection to the process. This is a rye whiskey that speaks to our team’s dedication to precision and passion for innovation.”

The focus on transparency in the Heaven Hill Grain to Glass line extends beyond its local ingredients. The label on each bottle features details of the specific corn seed varietal utilized from Beck’s Hybrids, the unique mashbill, as well as the distillation and released years. The illustrations include a blueprint of Bernheim Distillery, along with custom designs depicting the importance of farming tradition and innovation. The 700ml bottles will be available across the U.S. at a suggested retail price of $99.99.

The Heaven Hill Grain to Glass series continues the Shapira family’s legacy of quality, transparency, and innovation, offering whiskey lovers a deeper understanding of the people and processes behind their favorite spirits. The series has been recognized for its excellence, with the First Edition Grain to Glass Rye Whiskey earning a Gold Medal at the 2024 Beverage Tasting Institute and the title of Best American Rye Whiskey at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. Earlier this year, the Second Edition Grain to Glass Bourbon launched to critical acclaim, further cementing the series’ reputation for exceptional craftsmanship. For more information about Heaven Hill Grain to Glass, visit:

 
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PETALUMA, Calif., June 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- , makers of "scientifically crafted spirits", is thrilled to announce that its flagship  has been awarded America's Greatest London Dry Gin 2025 by The Gin Guild at ADI's (American Distilling Institute). Judges were impressed by its meticulous balance of botanicals, and Scott Street Gin perfectly exemplifies Griffo's commitment to combining innovative science with the finest local ingredients.

"Crafted with wild juniper and Sonoma Meyer lemons, this standout spirit rose to the top in a rigorous blind tasting judged by industry experts," says The Gin Guild. As a global champion of the gin category,  celebrates excellence in distilling—and this award is a testament to Griffo's craftsmanship.

The timing of the award couldn't be more perfect for July 4th celebrations, as CEO Will Maroun states, "What better way to celebrate our independence from Great Britain than a G&T with America's Greatest Gin? It's practically our patriotic duty."

"Scott Street Gin is our bright and citrusy, California take on London Dry Gin; with Sonoma Meyer Lemons 'locally foraged' from neighbors and friends, and wild & organic botanicals. It was our first spirit crafted to highlight the beauty and bounty of Sonoma County. We're honored to receive this national recognition."

—Fred Abercrombie, Director of Marketing & Creative

To celebrate, Griffo is offering free shipping through July 4th with code 4GREATEST on all spirits orders over $70. Griffo ships their award-winning spirits to 47 states so a great opportunity to try Scott Street Gin.

 
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TORONTO, June 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This summer, Toronto’s iconic Ossington strip welcomes a vibrant new addition: Central Restaurants. Opening July 3 at 114 Ossington Avenue, Central offers more than just a meal – it’s a neighbourhood gathering place designed to bring people together over fresh flavours, creative cocktails, curated music, and good times.

“Equal parts comfort and creativity, Central brings a different kind of energy to the strip,” says PJ L’Heureux, president and co-founder of Central. “It’s inclusive, approachable, and designed for people to relax over great food and drinks.”

Set in the heart of one of Toronto’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, Central combines eclectic design with a laid-back feel, offering a seamless transition from daytime bites to late-night beats. Music and culture are core to the experience, with thoughtfully curated playlists throughout the week and live DJ sets on weekend nights, featuring emerging talent in a lively, social environment.

Central Ossington is anchored by a 360-degree bar and a spacious year-round patio featuring a cozy fire pit – perfect for everything from after-work happy hour to weekend celebrations. Designed by Canadian firm Way of Normal, the 3,000 sq. ft. space pairs street-style edge with vintage charm. Bold colours, industrial textures, and lush greenery weave together to create a warm and immersive environment. Counterculture-inspired artwork sets the tone featuring unfiltered portraits of icons like Amy Winehouse, Anthony Bourdain, and the Beastie Boys, celebrating individuality, expression, and creative rebellion.

Leading the culinary team at Central Ossington is Executive Chef Phil Allain. A powerhouse in the Toronto hospitality industry, Allain has over a decade of experience in some of the city's most beloved kitchens including Warm Welcome Hospitality Group (Saint John's Tavern, Melrose On Adelaide, Piccolo Caffe, Paradise Grotto) as well as Bar Isabel, Bar Piquette, and Tennessee Tavern.

“I lived on Ossington for 10 years, and before that, it was a neighbourhood I frequented to discover new spots and connect with people,” says Allain. “I’ve seen firsthand how Ossington has changed and evolved, and it’s such an honour to now be part of its future in such a direct way.”

Central’s menu is a diverse mix of globally inspired dishes, crafted to satisfy a wide range of cravings – from the Mexican Street Chicken featuring stone-fired spiced chicken with smashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, to the Truffle Mushroom and Pork Belly Fettuccine with truffle oil, crispy pork belly, shiitake mushrooms, and parmesan, and the Pressed Ahi Tuna Sushi topped with mango purée, ginger garlic vinaigrette, serrano pepper, and green onion.

Complementing the food is a drink program that blends creativity with quality ingredients. Signature drinks range from the Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita made with infused tequila, triple sec, lime, and a Tajín rim, to the Frosty Spiced Horchata, a chilled blend of white rum, amaretto, horchata, and cherry, and the zero-proof Strawberry Yuzu Soda with popping strawberry pearls, lemon, yuzu, and soda.

With options for every taste – from adventurous to nostalgic to comfort – there’s something on the menu for everyone.
Central Ossington officially opens on July 3, 2025 at 114 Ossington Ave, Toronto. A limited number of reservations are now available at .

 

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