Tell me about it. One of the catering outlets last year was trying to flog pulled pork baps for something like £5.50, and another had some not-so-appetising fish and chips. Take my advice, bring a packed lunch!
I live only about 25-30 minutes drive away from the NEC, so wouldn't need to worry about a hotel but as the hotels are right next to the airport they probably tend to be quite expensive so I reckon exhibitors if they can just don't bother and prefer to drive home.
Though last year one of my pals got a pint of this 7.6% cider from Spoons and appeared to be enjoying it, even if it did take him ages to finish!