ApEx kicks off on Sunday

April 1, 2011, Moncton – The Moncton Agrena Coliseum Complex is being transformed into a feast of food, beverage, equipment and technology products for Atlantic Canada’s restaurant and hospitality industry.

Close to 2,000 people are expected to gather at the complex on April 3 and 4 for ApEx, Atlantic Canada’s foodservice and hospitality event.

“ApEx is a chance for anyone who works in the hospitality industry – from owners and managers to chefs and purchasing agents – to find out what’s new, make some deals, get inspired and network with their colleagues,” says Luc Erjavec, Atlantic Canada vice-president for the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA). “The hospitality industry is a key part of the economy, and events like this help these businesses to grow and prosper.”

In addition to exhibit booths showcasing hundreds of new products – from flavoured iced teas and smoothies to waste disposal bins – ApEx will include a panel discussion with local business owners revealing their secrets to success, the latest trends and forecasts from CRFA and market research company NPD Group, and demonstration by local chefs.

Some of Atlantic Canada’s best chefs and restaurant owners will also be on hand to hold cooking demonstrations, including:

•    Chef Sylvie Parent-Pitre of the Atlantic Host Hotel in Bathurst, NB
•    Brenda O'Reilly of Yellowbelly Brewery in St. John's, NL
•    Chef Liam Dolan of the Claddagh Restaurant in Charlottetown, PEI
•    Chef Stefan Müller of the Delta Beausejour in Moncton, NB
•    Chef Chris MacAdam of MaisonTait House in Shediac, NB
•    Chef Pierre A. Richard of Little Louis' in Moncton, NB

In Atlantic Canada, the restaurant industry generates $3.8 billion in annual sales and directly employs more than 73,000 people at 5,000 restaurants, bars and caterers.

For more information, visit www.apextradeshow.com.