There’s always a vision before a show.
You plan, you design, you build… and then you wait to see if it all comes together the way you imagined.
At HOSTEX 2026, it did.
From the moment the doors opened at Hall 1 | Stand B23, the space came to life in exactly the way we had hoped — not just as a stand, but as a feeling. Premium, welcoming and energetic. A place where people stayed a little longer, sat a little deeper into conversation, and connected in a way that felt natural.
A Space for Connection
Our hospitality lounge was at the heart of it all. From early morning coffees through to late afternoon conversations, it became a space of constant movement and meaningful exchange. Suppliers, partners, collaborators, friends and trade professionals from across the industry stopped in — some for a moment, others for hours — and each interaction added to the energy of the stand.
We also had Core teams represented from across the country, many meeting one another in person for the first time — a reminder that what we build nationally is just as important internally as it is externally.
A Culinary Highlight: Pinsa Club
And of course, Pinsa Club delivered.
Served fresh from noon until close each day, and brought to life on-site by Chef Christian Wilderer himself, it quickly became a standout. Simple, versatile and consistently delicious, it sparked conversation across the board — from chefs exploring menu additions to operators looking for practical, scalable solutions. It did exactly what we hoped: introduce something new in a way that makes sense commercially and operationally.
Glassware That Made an Impression
Surrounding the lounge, the product told its story — and this year, that story felt especially strong.
One of the standout moments of the show was the reveal of Stölzle Lausitz, a superb new addition to the Core portfolio. Its lead-free crystal glassware brought clarity, precision and elegance to the stand, and the response confirmed exactly why we were excited to introduce it. Bubbles and beers served in the new Stölzle range added a fresh layer of refinement, while reinforcing Core’s commitment to bringing distinctive, world-class hospitality brands to the Southern African market.
Alongside this, the full strength of our glassware offering was on show. Libbey, ONIS and Royal Leerdam were all showcased across the stand, with trusted ranges sitting alongside many new additions. Displayed, handled and used in a real hospitality setting, the collections demonstrated both the depth of the portfolio and the way Core continues to evolve it with intention.
Bar & Service Integration
That same thinking carried through the rest of the stand. Our Marola barware featured throughout the lounge and bar area, supporting both service and presentation seamlessly. The bar itself became a focal point — a bespoke build developed for the Randburg branch and perfectly debuted at HOSTEX. Fully stocked with the Wilderer spirit range and equipped with an oven and slush machine from preferred supplier BCE, it supported both the Pinsa offering and beverage service with ease.
Tabletop & Buffet Presentation
Our APS buffet display made a bold and refined statement — anchored by the VALO range and layered with black-on-black tones, PVD finishes and contemporary serveware. New Steelite introductions added depth to the tabletop story, while HEPP brought polish and presence through an expanded serveware and tabletop offering. Fuchsthaler cutlery sat comfortably within the mix, reinforcing the practical elegance that underpins so much of Core’s offering.
Design & Atmosphere
All of this was brought together through a considered design vision led by Saskia Interiors, who once again translated concept into atmosphere with a confident, intuitive touch. Black-on-black formed the foundation, lifted by vibrant green planting, bamboo elements and the sleek edge of PVD finishes. Lighting across the shelving played a subtle but powerful role — allowing product to shine while creating an illuminated and immersive environment.
Decorative Elements & Collaborations
The space was elevated further by thoughtful decorative elements. Hayward and Haines introduced vibrant accents into the lounge, adding colour and energy, while PetraK Sculpture layered in artistry with her striking ceramic works — organic in form, yet regal in presence. Petra was present throughout, engaging directly with visitors and collectors, adding a personal and tactile dimension to the experience.
We were also proud to collaborate with Joburg Style, whose publications were featured on the stand — a subtle nod to the broader lifestyle and design conversation within hospitality.
Beverage Hub Experience
Beyond the stand, the Core-curated beverage hub came into its own on the other side of the expo, bringing together a vibrant mix of partners including Liquidity representing Wilderer, Fruit & Flight, BOS Ice Tea and Starcape. A deliciously colourful and diverse selection of beverages and culinary boosters was on offer, with each partner creating strong engagement through tastings, meetings and conversation.
Importantly, these products flowed back into the Core lounge and displays, becoming part of the overall experience. Partners moved between both spaces, hosting, serving and connecting in a way that felt seamless and collaborative. With the support of Rialto, hot beverages and BOS red espressos kept the energy steady throughout the day, while a lively range of refreshments carried the atmosphere into the afternoon. One standout? The “Dead South” made with Wilderer Rogue Apple Pie Moonshine, ginger ale served over ice with lemon — simple, balanced and memorable.
A Team Effort
But more than anything, this was a team effort.
From concept to execution, from build to breakdown, from first guest to final farewell — it was the people who made it what it was. Our teams, our partners, our suppliers, our collaborators, and every single person who took the time to visit.
Thank you for showing up.
Until Next Time
HOSTEX always reminds us why we do what we do — to support the industry, build long-term relationships, and keep evolving with purpose.
Until next time.
Core Catering Supplies — Enjoy the Difference.
