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Foodservice Innovation, Fresh Ideas & Must-Visit Booths

The National Restaurant Association Show returns to Chicago May 16–19, bringing together foodservice professionals from across the industry to explore the trends, equipment, and innovations shaping the future of foodservice.

From labor-saving technology and energy efficiency to elevated tabletop presentation and expanded menu versatility, NRA 2026 is packed with ideas designed to help operators stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

Here’s what the FH&W team is excited to see on the show floor this year.

Univex: Expanding Beyond Pizza

Univex is bringing more than pizza power to NRA this year with solutions designed to help operators diversify menus and improve kitchen efficiency.

Featured Innovations

• Sous Vide Circulator featuring versatile recipe applications and precision cooking

• SG5000 Nut Butter Grinder for fresh-ground peanut butter and specialty spreads

• Pizza Systems delivering speed, consistency, and profitability

As operators continue expanding menus while maintaining consistency, Univex continues delivering flexible kitchen solutions built for modern foodservice operations.

Wood Stone: Modular Pizza Performance for Growing Operations

Wood Stone is showcasing the new AMP Series 64, a high-temperature electric deck oven designed for artisan-quality results and high-volume performance.

Key Features

• High-temperature performance up to 850°F

• Stackable modular design that scales with operational demand

• Electric operation supporting evolving sustainability needs

• Compact footprint ideal for tighter kitchens and multi-unit operations

• Versatility for pizza, proteins, vegetables, and desserts

Designed for flexibility and consistency, the AMP Series 64 gives operators the ability to grow capacity over time without compromising performance.

Blendtec: Speed Meets Innovation

Blendtec will be showcasing high-speed beverage solutions at two locations during NRA 2026.

At Booth #3840, attendees can see live demos featuring 6-second blended coffees and 15-second smoothies, shakes, and frozen beverages.

Blendtec will also be featured at Booth #4097 in the Kitchen Innovation Area, highlighting the time-saving Ultra Jar and its recognition as a 2026 Kitchen Innovation Award recipient.

As operators continue looking for faster service and labor-saving solutions, Blendtec’s latest innovations are designed to help maximize efficiency without sacrificing beverage quality.

TableCraft: The Biggest Q2 Launch in Company History

TableCraft is arriving at NRA with major momentum, unveiling more than 200 new products as part of the company’s largest Q2 launch ever.

Products We’re Watching

• Redesigned Action Stations and Modular Cooling Stations

• Luma Collection™ drinkware

• Acacia Collection™ serving boards

• Flynn Collection™ melamine plates and bowls

• Ripple Collection™ barware

From buffet solutions and beverage service to tabletop presentation and catering essentials, TableCraft’s newest collections combine functionality with visual impact.

Disco: Filtration Solutions Operators Depend On

Disco continues to focus on dependable filtration solutions for commercial kitchens. Their filter papers are available for nearly every fryer and filter machine on the market and are approved by fryer and filter machine manufacturers across the industry.

Reliable filtration remains a critical part of extending oil life, maintaining food quality, and improving kitchen efficiency.

Jackson: Smarter Warewashing Efficiency

Jackson is highlighting the TempStar® Energy Recovery Ventless Warewasher at NRA 2026.

As utility costs and sustainability remain top priorities for operators, energy recovery technology continues to gain attention for its ability to improve efficiency while supporting high-volume warewashing performance.

Fermod: Smarter Back-of-House Organization

Fermod is showcasing its new Chemical Cart, designed to improve organization, mobility, and safety in demanding foodservice environments.

The Chemical Cart helps operators streamline cleaning and sanitation while keeping supplies organized and accessible.

Mikasa Hospitality + ONIS: Elevating Beverage Presentation

Mikasa Hospitality is highlighting the new Classic Bar Collection from ONIS, featuring low-profile stemware and essential cocktail tumblers designed for modern beverage programs.

Collection Highlights

• Low-profile stemware

• Essential cocktail tumblers

• Laser-cut rims for an elevated drinking experience

• Contemporary styling built for modern bar service

Your FH&W Show Floor Game Plan

From tabletop trends to back-of-house innovation, use the guide below to map out your must-see FH&W manufacturers at NRA 2026.

What’s Next in Foodservice

The NRA Show is more than a showcase of new products. It is an opportunity to discover solutions that help operators adapt, evolve, and grow.

This year’s show highlights many of the trends shaping foodservice today, including operational efficiency, elevated presentation, menu flexibility, sustainability, and smarter back-of-house solutions.

At FH&W, we’re proud to represent manufacturers who continue driving the industry forward with innovation, performance, and contemporary thinking.

If you’re heading to Chicago this week, make sure these brands are on your must-see list.

To learn more about any of the manufacturers, products, or solutions featured above, contact the FH&W team or stop by one of our partner booths during NRA 2026.

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