Tabletop Trends: What’s hot in LET? The Top Ten Trends at the 2026 LET Forum

What’s hot in LET? The Top Ten Trends at the 2026 LET Forum

If you want to be in the know as to what’s hot and what’s not in light equipment and tableware, the LET Forum is a great source of info.

Here’s our top ten from this year’s event.

Muted colours – Scandi is strong, and pastels are still big business with light blues and pale olives amongst the leading runners..  And yet…

Bright colours and patterns – that’s right, the Forum was in two distinct minds, with a somewhat confusing emphasis on bright colours and striking patterns, making a huge contrast with the pale pastels. So the choice is there… zappy purple or sky blue? Or both? One supplier suggested that restaurants were going for muted, while bars wanted punchy, striking bright tones.

Flexibility – many restaurants don’t want a rigid set up, they want equipment and tableware that gives them flexibility. Mix and match plates and bowls, multifunctional appliances, modular buffet systems… And if the operator wants to refresh things on the table or counter, it may only need a couple of pieces make a statement.

Tableware material variety – you name it, the option is there.  Ceramics, of course. Melamine, of course – though perhaps less than in previous years. Then there’s enamel and other metal tableware and serveware, including bright finishes partly inspired by the Asian restaurant sector.

Staff shortages – so more emphasis on equipment that makes life easier and quicker, from stick blenders and spatulas with built-in thermometers to storage containers that won’t jam together when stacked.

Wellbeing – in line with the staff shortage issue, there was lots of emphasis on equipment that will help protect staff, with a focus on ergonomics and practical solutions, such as lighter cookware and storage containers.

Copper… has it had its day? – there were far fewer copper products at the year’s Forum. Some suppliers said customers were looking at stainless steel instead. Copper is stylish, but it takes more looking after. Perhaps it’s a victim of the staff shortage crisis?

Ambience – the importance of setting the right tone was a big discussion point with lots of suppliers, from choosing the cutlery to lighting the table.

Portioners – lots on offer, these simple and effective tools are helping operators meet the challenges of food waste, consistency, and cost saving.

Polycarbonate alternatives – the BPA ban looms large and is a big talking point for the LET industry. Hence lots of companies are offering BPA-free alternatives of, for example, storage containers.