The 46th edition of SIGEP World, the global expo for foodservice excellence, officially opened at the Rimini Expo Centre. Organized by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), the event celebrates the artisan industries of gelato, pastry, bakery, coffee, chocolate, and pizza. Marking its largest edition to date, the exhibition spans 138,000 square meters. It hosts 1,300 brands and attracts over 3,000 international buyers. This solidifies its position as the leading global platform for the foodservice sector.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Italy’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty. The ceremony highlighted the significance of this year’s event. SIGEP has evolved from a modest 180 exhibitors in 1980 into a global showcase. It positions Rimini at the heart of the foodservice industry.

Global Vision and Local Pride

This year’s SIGEP World reflects its growth into a hub for professional and sector culture. The growth is driven by initiatives like the SIGEP Vision Observatory, which supports the industry through research and innovation. The launch of the Guest Country project further enhances its international reach. This initiative spotlights Saudi Arabia as a strategic partner with strong representation from institutions and buyers.

The event celebrates the excellence of Italian craftsmanship and hospitality. It presents an opportunity to unite tradition with modern innovation while strengthening global connections. The platform also serves as a vital stage to showcase the agrifood industry’s unique qualities. It draws international visitors and reinforces Rimini’s role as a global reference point for foodservice excellence.

Celebrating Italian Excellence

SIGEP World underscores the dessert sector’s importance. Gelato—a standout product of the “Made in Italy” brand—accounts for 30% of the global market. The event highlights the complexity and innovation behind these seemingly simple products. They represent the culmination of skills, technology, and business vision.

The Italian dolce foodservice sector continues to show resilience and growth. It achieved a turnover of €9.3 billion in 2023, which is 47% higher than 2019. The industry remains a pillar of Italy’s economy. In 2024, exports grew by 8.6%, with a focus on strategic international markets. This year’s event fosters these connections. It hosts 74 buyers from key countries such as the USA, Canada, Japan, China, and several African nations.

SIGEP also provides a platform to consolidate Italy’s global leadership in the foodservice sector. It achieves this by expanding into foreign markets, strengthening exports, and promoting the country’s agri-food model as a cornerstone of its economy.

Saudi Arabia as Guest Country

A distinctive feature of this year’s edition is the inclusion of Saudi Arabia as Guest Country. This reflects its growing importance as a strategic market in hospitality and catering. Saudi Arabia, with plans to host Expo 2030, offers unique opportunities for collaboration. These opportunities are driven by its economic growth and demand for innovative technologies.

The Saudi delegation includes representatives from leading brands such as Barn’s coffee chain, Elite Hospitality/Al-Nahla Group, and Al Tazaj restaurants. Their participation enriches the event and opens new opportunities for partnerships. This further cements SIGEP World’s position as a global hub for the foodservice industry.

Looking Ahead

SIGEP World 2025 runs until January 22. It showcases product innovations and consumer trends across artisan gelato, pastry, bakery, coffee, chocolate, and pizza. With its growing international focus and commitment to innovation, the event continues to define the future of foodservice excellence. It highlights the strength and creativity of Italian craftsmanship.

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