From 2 to 4 November 2026, the Fira de Barcelona the Gastronomic Forum Barcelona at the exhibition centre Gran Via out. According to the organiser, the programme is guided by the theme “Revisitar la tradición” and links the preservation of culinary traditions with generational change in businesses and more sustainable supply chains. This brings questions of structural and innovation policy in the sector more to the fore, rather than focusing solely on the aesthetics of cuisine.
According to Fira de Barcelona the congress aims to bring together market players, chefs and service providers. One focus is the transition to a younger generation of professionals: projects for Generation Z, initiatives to strengthen new professional roles in kitchens and service, and training programmes are planned. A prominent feature will again be the La Vanguardia held jointly with Premio Cuiner, which highlights regional produce and sustainable offerings. This approach emphasises value creation that extends beyond haute cuisine and is more firmly rooted in the region.
The timing and theme reflect debates in Barcelona about ways to address labour shortages, rising operating costs and dependence on volatile supply chains. Industry representatives increasingly attribute the safeguarding of quality and accessibility to systemic factors: training, retaining young talent and reliable relationships with producers in the surrounding area. The Forum sees itself as a place to present and connect initiatives; it does not replace binding political commitments.
For Barcelona City Council and the sector, three areas for action are emerging that would need to be further developed after the Forum. First: targeted training and transition programmes to bring young professionals into skilled employment more quickly. Second: investment in sustainable supply chains and support for regional products, to improve quality and predictability. Third: adjustments to regulation and support schemes so that innovative formats—from pop-up businesses to community-oriented food provision projects—become economically viable. These points emerge from the organiser’s announcements and statements by industry players; it remains to be seen whether and how they will be taken up politically.
Gastronomic Forum Barcelona begins on 2 November 2026 at the Gran Via site. The programme includes industry debates, award ceremonies and practical demonstrations. The organisers say the event aims to bring together public discussion on the future of gastronomy in Barcelona and deepen cooperation between businesses, new talent and producers.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).