The RumFest Trade Show & Conference returns this October, bringing together some of the most prominent names and exciting newcomers in the industry, all under one roof. Taking place Friday 19th October 2018 at the ILEC in London, over 25 exhibitors will showcase their rums as industry professionals network and sample new releases as well as discuss hot topics affecting the spirit in the second ever RumFest Conference.
Exhibitors this year include Rum Java, Mhoba Rum, Real McCoy Rum, Rhum Depaz and more. Registration for the RumFest Trade Show & Conference is open here.
RumFest's consumer show will open its doors 20th-21st October to host an abundance of tastings, masterclasses, seminars and delicious food. Brands, mixologists, master blenders and specials guests will jet in from the UK and beyond, coming together for a united passion of all things rum. More information on tickets and the event can be found on the website viarumfest.co.uk. On Sunday The Golden Rum Barrel Awards returns to celebrate the best movers and shakers in the rum world.
The RumFest Trade Show & Conference has provided a platform for the industry's newcomers and independent brands for over a decade, attracting rum wholesalers, distributors, buyers, bar professionals and importers to what has become a key date in the rum calendar. With the evolution of the spirit and consistent rise in popularity in the UK, the one day trade event provides the chance to discover new rums, discuss trends and debate over issues affecting the industry.
The RumFest Trade Show & Conference will showcase rum's versatility by welcoming the finest producers of the spirit including Atlantico Rum, Real McCoy Rum, Mhoba Rum, Rum Java, RumPixan, Rhum Depaz and Kill Devil. Across the day advanced masterclasses, deluxe tastings and more will take place to get even more insight into the spirit.
At the weekend RumFest opens its doors to consumers, Saturday 20th - Sunday 21st October, to host an extensive showcase of rum-related offerings with leading brands from across the globe. Ticket-holders will get the chance to immerse themselves in all aspects of rum - from seminars and workshops with top brands, ambassadors and leading industry figures to top mixologists, blenders and distillers teaching the art of cocktail making and the ideal pairings for particular rums. Ticket holders will have the chance to purchase Golden Tot Tokens. For visitors interested in premium rums, these tokens will give those a chance to sample higher premium rums retailing from £80-£200. For the first time founder Ian Burrell will also host a tasting showcasing five rare and expensive rums with a combined retail value of £1500.
To close the weekend of festivities on Sunday 21st October, the Golden Rum Barrel Awards will recognise those making waves in the rum world. Celebrating the exceptional efforts and stars of the industry, categories include UK Rum Brand Ambassador of the year, UK Rum Menu of the year, Best New Rum of the year, Best Single Rum, Best Traditional Column Rum and many more. The nominees for the awards will be announced for National Rum Day in August.
Speaking about this year's events, founder and Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell, 'TheRumFest Trade Show and Conference is a fantastic chance to get the inside track on the next big thing in rum as well as try some hidden gems on the market. Last year proved once again that this is THE event for anyone in the business of rum, with the worlds best brands, master blenders, distilleries and aficionados from across the globe. 2018 promises to raise the bar again with a few more surprises'.
Registration for the RumFest Trade Show & Conference Day is now open to members of the trade and press.
