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Eric Jurado
Plans are underway for the the 3rd Annual Antojo Industry Trade Expo set for October 13 – 14 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, California. el Restaurante reached out to Eric Jurado, the show’s producer, to learn more about the show and the benefits it will deliver to members of the Mexican/Latin foodservice industry.
el Restaurante: What makes the Antojo Expo unique in the trade show landscape today?
Jurado: Its laser focus! Antojo is designed to directly connect businesses with the power of the U.S. Latino foodservice and grocery retail sectors. This isn’t just a niche market; it represents a substantial $36.48 billion in 2024, projected to nearly double to $65.41 billion by 2034. For exhibitors, this means you’re engag- ing with Latino business owners, procurement specialists, culinary innovators, and key distributors, which streamlines the path to valuable partnerships and sales channels. For attendees, Antojo provides expo- sure to the products, services, and trends shaping the U.S. Latino food and beverage landscape. We’re not just covering this de- mographic; we are this demographic’s trade event, offering a genuine first-mover advantage in a market ripe with opportunity.
el Restaurante: How has the show grown and changed since the first event?
Jurado: We initially focused on creating a connection point for Latino-owned businesses, but now Antojo has broadened its scope. We’ve seen a substantial increase in the number of exhibitors and the quality of qualified buyers attending from across the U.S.
One of the most significant changes has been the show’s increasing international appeal. We’re seeing more interest from countries around the globe that recognize it as the gateway into the U.S. Latino consumer base. And while initially centered on Latino-owned enterprises, the show now attracts a growing number of non-Latino companies as exhibitors and attendees. Antojo also has become a key sourcing destination for buyers from chain and independent restaurants, distributors, and brokers from across the United States. In essence, it has transformed from a regional gathering into an internationally recognized business platform.
We’ve also added cooking demos in an area called Cocina Antojo and the Latino Food Industry Association’s Latino Food & Beverage Summit, further enriching the opportunities and insights available to attendees.
el Restaurante: Why is it important for members of the Mexican/Latin foodservice industry to attend?
Jurado: First, in an industry where every dollar counts, Antojo provides an avenue to discover potentially more cost-effective and certainly more distinctive products. You’re connecting with specialized sup- pliers, including international companies eager to tap into the U.S. Latino market. This direct access can translate into better pricing and the ability to create menu or shelf items that truly stand out.
Second, understanding your customer base is paramount, especially during uncertain economic periods. Antojo offers a direct line to insights about the U.S. Latino market, allowing you to adapt your offerings to meet current demands and cultivate a loyal customer following. Third, this is a prime environment for forging partnerships and finding creative solutions by interacting with business owners, suppliers, and industry experts. These connections can spark ideas for streamlining operations, sourcing more efficiently, and developing collaborative strategies to navigate the challenges our industry is facing.
Furthermore, Antojo can help you identify potentially untapped niches within the broader U.S. Latino market. By understanding cultural preferences and regional tastes, you can tailor your offerings to attract specific customer segments and potentially unlock new revenue streams. Antojo this year isn’t just about seeing new products; it’s about gaining the strategic intelligence and connections needed to navigate these times and build a more sustainable future for your business.
el Restaurante: Any final thoughts?
Jurado: My final thought for the food and beverage industry is this: business owners should absolutely maintain a positive outlook, and the data on the U.S. Latino market is the driving force behind that optimism. The dramatic growth in buying power, from approximately $1.2 trillion in 2012 when the population was around 53 million to a projected near $4 trillion today with a current population of over 65 mil- lion, speaks volumes. The rising demand for authentic Latino products is no longer a trend; it’s a significant and expanding part of the mainstream, creating vast opportunities for innovation and growth nationwide.
For more information about the show, visit antojoindustry.com
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