What to expect at Host Milano 2025 if you work in coffee

Host Milano is the biggest hospitality exhibition in the world. It happens every two years in Italy. It covers everything from gelato machines to restaurant design. But this year, it will also be the most important event on the specialty coffee calendar.

From 17 to 21 October, Host takes over the Fiera Milano exhibition center. More than 180,000 people are expected. Coffee will be a major draw.

I’ve never been to Host before. Like most people, I’ve followed the photos and product launches online. This year I’ll be there in person. I’ll be sharing what I see, what stands out, and what might shape coffee in the year ahead.

But this is what I’ve been told by friends and colleagues who have been.

Host is where the coffee industry shows what’s next

Coffee is not the only focus at Host, but it has become one of the most important zones. Every link in the supply chain will be there. Machine manufacturers. Equipment distributors. Roasters. Producers. Retailers. Café owners. Competitors. Judges. Baristas.

It’s not just a trade show. It’s a marketplace. Products launch here. Conversations start here. Partnerships begin here. The tools that appear at Host often show up in cafés a few months later.

What to expect from the exhibitors

Espresso machines will take up the most space. But the smartest brands will be doing more than showing machines. They’ll be sharing ideas, new features, prototypes, and future plans.

Some booths will look impressive but show nothing new. Others will be small and easy to overlook, but they might be where the best ideas appear.

I’ll be watching for tools that solve real problems. Compact espresso machines that make better use of space. Grinders with smarter software. Accessories that feel like someone finally listened. These are the things I’ll be looking for.

Competitions and talks happening at Host

The World Barista Championship is happening at Host this year. So is the Latte Art World Championship. These always attract crowds and a lot of cameras.

There’s also a full schedule of talks. HOST Talks: Beyond the Cup brings together people working on design, technology, business, and sustainability. Some talks will be forgettable. Some might change how we think about service.

What I’ll be paying attention to

Some trends are easy to spot. Smaller machines. More automation. Better UI. But what often matters most is what people do not talk about. What gets ignored. What fails to impress.

I’ll be paying attention to booths that seem busier than expected, looking at who is in the crowd and asking what suppliers are taking photos of.

What happens at Host doesn’t stay at Host. It spreads.

How to follow Host Milano if you’re not there

If you can’t attend, follow baristas and reviewers who post stories and updates. They often tell the truth better than brands do.

I’ll be posting daily updates from the show floor on the FLTR Magazine Instagram. I’ll also publish a mid-show and post-show report with what I think matters most.

FAQ

When is Host Milano 2025?

October 17 to 21, 2025, at Fiera Milano in Milan, Italy.

Who should attend Host Milano?

Anyone in the hospitality industry. Coffee professionals, roasters, equipment resellers, café owners, and anyone curious about new gear.

What coffee events are taking place?

The World Barista Championship, Latte Art World Championship, and the HOST Talks: Beyond the Cup sessions.

Do I need a business to attend?

No. Anyone can register and buy a ticket. Most visitors work in hospitality, but you do not need a company to attend.

What trends should coffee professionals keep an eye on?

Smaller machines, better software, automation, low-waste accessories, and crossover ideas from other parts of the food industry.

Where can I follow live updates?

On the FLTR Magazine Instagram page, and through posts from baristas and reviewers who are walking the show floor. Look for independent voices.