SIGEP Vision Talk: the future of foodservice between sustainability and innovation

The 2025 edition of SIGEP WORLD, currently taking place at the Rimini Exhibition Center, reaffirms its role as a global platform for innovation and discussion on trends in the foodservice industry. Among the most significant events, the SIGEP Vision Talk explored key topics shaping the future of gelato, pastry, coffee, chocolate, bakery, and pizza sectors, with a particular focus on changing consumer habits and market demands.

During the talk titled "Global Trends and Future Scenarios of the Gelato and Foodservice Industry", insights and data highlighted an evolving landscape. Circana revealed that European spending on ‘ready-to-eat’ products has surged from €12.3 billion in 2020 to €18.1 billion by June 2024. This trend challenges restaurants to stand out in an increasingly competitive market by focusing on two main drivers: sustainability, with 44% of consumers showing loyalty to eco-friendly establishments, and innovation, as 66% of Europeans increasingly seek unique dining experiences.

Flavia Morelli, Group Exhibition Manager of IEG’s Food & Beverage Division, moderated a high-profile panel featuring:

• Edurne Uranga, Vice President of Foodservice Europe-Circana, who shared insights into market trends across Europe.
• Massimiliano Zucchi, CEO of ‘La Romana dal 1947,’ who highlighted the success of blending tradition with innovation in a historic brand.
• Shelley Hwang, founder of Pinkberry, the U.S. dessert chain with 260 stores in 20 countries, who emphasized the importance of creating memorable customer experiences.
• Mohammad Alsuri, Director of Learning and Performance at Al Tazaj, a Saudi quick-service restaurant chain, who underscored Saudi Arabia's role as the Guest Country at SIGEP World and the potential of this emerging market.

The SIGEP Vision Talk was not just a moment for exchange but also an opportunity to look ahead with an international perspective. The event reaffirmed SIGEP World’s importance as a global hub for trends and innovation in the foodservice industry, offering tools and ideas to tackle the challenges of a constantly evolving market.