forecourttech recently met with UNITI expo co-organiser Ben Boroewitsch to discuss what delegates can expect at Europe’s largest service station trade fair this May. In our conversation, Ben revealed the latest developments shaping the 2026 event and shared what he’s personally most excited about.
UNITI expo 2026 is fast approaching. What can delegates expect from this year’s UNITI expo? Are there any new features or developments we should be excited about?
This year’s UNITI expo will be the largest edition we have ever held, bringing together more than 500 exhibitors across 45,000 square metres. It remains the main meeting point for our industry, and its continuous growth reflects both the rapid development of the market and the importance of UNITI expo as a platform. Delegates can look forward to an event shaped by the latest trends, including new mobility, innovation in the foodvenience space, and new business models. A key highlight will be the Future Mobility Lounge, which showcases forward-looking solutions for alternative fuels and emerging energy technologies. The event itself is also evolving, with features such as a new food court in Hall 5 and an expanded, more detailed conference programme.
What do you see as the biggest challenges or opportunities for service station operators today?
Challenges and opportunities vary by market and region, but one of the most significant developments is the transition of fuel retail sites into broader mobility hubs. With the rise of e-fuels, EV charging, and other alternative energy carriers, operators must adapt to new customer needs. These technologies involve high costs for operators and, a lot of the time, depend on governments and regulators. This context provides both challenges and opportunities. On the other hand, a lot of the profit is moving from the pump to the store. The foodvenience revolution is arriving, step by step, in all markets. From fresh food and barista coffee to digital ordering kiosks and hybrid stores, changing consumer behaviour and technology advancements are reshaping the business. Hovering over the changes we are seeing in retail, mobility and car wash is AI. At UNITI expo you will be able to visualise all these challenges.
Why do you believe in-person events remain important for this sector?
There are two main reasons. As I mentioned, the transformation from forecourts to multi-service, multi-energy hubs brings an enormous amount of technological and operational challenges. UNITI expo is the event where industry professionals from all over the world can get together to find new solutions and discuss common challenges. All in one place. In addition, the networking opportunities are exceptional. Thanks to the efficient event concept, visitors can network with thousands of industry peers in a compact, three-day period something that simply cannot be replicated online.
What role do partners, such as forecourttech, play in creating an awareness for and attracting visitors to UNITI expo?
We wouldn’t be able to reach so many people without our strong partners. With visitors coming from more than 100 countries, representing sectors like car wash, forecourt equipment, and shop & convenience, our partners help spread the word and reach all the relevant figures and brands. Through them, we strengthen the awareness for UNITI expo worldwide. We reach more than a million industry experts between each edition of UNITI expo through media campaigns and our partner network, making them a pillar of success.
On a personal note, what are you looking forward to about UNITI expo?
I am excited to see this edition come to life because it will be our biggest ever. We will showcase a wide range of innovations, introduce a new food court, and launch a digital visitor portal that allows visitors to connect with exhibitors in advance and schedule meetings. Our networking party will once again be a highlight. With a strong lineup of exhibitors and many new companies joining us, I am truly looking forward to seeing everything come together after more than a year and a half of preparation.
What’s your vision for UNITI expo over the next 4-6 years?
Our vision is strongly aligned with the development of the industry itself. As the sector evolves, so does UNITI expo. We maintain close relationships with experts from across the market, giving us insights into where the business is heading. When we created UNITI expo in 2012, EV charging and premium food-on-the-go were not the big segments they are today. We adapt to the market as it changes. Our goal is to continue to be the best platform in the world for professionals involved in mobility, convenience and car wash.
