The Foodpro 2011 proved to be the biggest ever held, reinforcing the exhibition’s status in the
Asia Pacific as the largest and most significant show for the region’s food and beverage processing and manufacturing industries.
As the most successful Foodpro, this year’s exhibition featured 328 exhibitors, an 18% increase from 2008. As a result, the show expanded from four to five halls, filling an total of 22,000 sq metres of space at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.
This premier triennial event also attracted a record breaking crowd. More than 8,800 key industry decision makers attended during the four days of the exhibition, an outstanding 13% increase from Foodpro 2008.
Plans are already in motion for the next Foodpro exhibition. With positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors alike, Foodpro exhibition manager, Peter Petherick, is confident Foodpro 2014 will be even bigger and more impressive,
“Foodpro attendees were struck by the imposing size of this year’s exhibition. Many of our visitors made comment about the scale and breadth of Foodpro, recognising that this event is a most comprehensive display of the industry’s products and services. Product demonstrations also were a highlight.
“This year’s visitors have reconfirmed that the exhibition is a must-attend event, the best place for new ideas, the latest technology and solutions to generate business, as well as invaluable networking opportunities,” says Petherick,
Comments from exhibitors and visitors alike were most positive. Mojo Foods director Vincent Bahn commented:
“There are three unique benefits that Foodpro 2011 offers our industry. First, the scale of the show, it is really one-stop-shopping.
“All of the equipment suppliers along with the key ingredients are under one roof. Secondly, it’s the best place for new ideas. You see the latest technology and capabilities that will generate new ideas for your businesss.
“Thirdly, there are networking opportunities with decision-makers across the industry,” Bahn said.
Managing the Foodpro exhibition for the first time, organisers Diversified Exhibitions Australia was praised for the organisation and quality of this year’s show.
“Bigger than ever, [Foodpro 2011] looked impressive with wide aisles, quality stands and the show was very busy. Congratulations to the new organisers,” said Symetec managing director, Shaughan Syme.
Foodpro 2014 will see Diversified Exhibitions Australia continue its successful alliance with the AIFST while it will seek to build the show’s partnerships with industry bodies and associations.
In addition, the growth and popularity of this year’s exhibition has sparked a new venture for the organisers. Diversified has gained expressions of interest for a smaller, regional food processing and manufacturing industry show now in planning for Queensland in 2013.
Foodpro 2014 is scheduled to run from 13-16 July.