Diversified Communications UK said around 70% of exhibition space has been sold, mostly to industry suppliers and manufacturers.

The most recent exhibitors to be announced include The American BBQ Company, Precision Refrigeration and DC Warewashing and Icemaking Systems.

Clifton Food Range, Panasonic, Welbilt, Multivac UK and Meiko are among the companies to have rebooked as exhibitors.

Commercial Kitchen’s event manager, Katie Tyler, said: “It's all about quality. And the quality of our visiting buyers is exceptional.

 “The numbers really do speak for themselves: over 40% of our visitors in 2017 were top-level buyers, including owners, CEOs and MDs. 

“35% carried purchasing power for a multi-site, chain or group operator.  Around one in four boasted an annual spend over £1m.  These are exactly who our exhibitors want to meet and the high demand for our 2018 show certainly reflects this.

Diversified UK expect over 2,000 people to visit show, with equipment buyers from schools, hospitals, pubs, bars, restaurants, care homes and contract caterers among those expected to attend.