Almost 80,000 visitors crowded in to the expo as it celebrated its 60th anniversary to see over 1,059 companies from 55 countries covering more than 120,000 square metres of exhibition space, said Dieter Dohr, managing director of expo organisers GHM. This and the optimistic atmosphere on the show floor seemed to bear testament to the general view that the baking sector has remained relatively unscathed by the worldwide recession, he told FoodProductionDaily.com.
New markets, green issues
“IBA was really strong last week and I think that reflects a very health baking industry,” he said. “We saw a growing market of exhibitors during the show and that customers are buying again, enabling us to increase business.”
He agreed that the baking sector had largely escaped the recession and said bread and bakery was “on the way up” and gaining traction in new markets, particular Asia
Green issues and energy saving innovations took centre stage, Dohr confirmed. Energy-efficient ovens, better refrigeration technology and improved raw materials were major innovation trends.
Engine of growth
Peter Becker, President of the German Bakers' Confederation, predicted the show would be an engine for confidence and growth in the industry.
“Before the fair, the initial forecasts were somewhat subdued, but the quantity and quality of the visitors has far exceeded all our expectations” he said.
“This fair has raised the bar as regards standards. All through the event there has been a definite air of confidence and a willingness to invest. IBA 2009 has reflected the unlimited dynamism that there is in the baking trades. It is the most important innovations powerhouse for the next three years, and one that will drive the market forward.”
The huge range of exhibits from across the whole baking sector was a major factor in the show’s world-leading position and success, added Dohr.
“At this international platform visitors were able to gain in-depth orientation in the market and experience first hand the competition between the ideas that will shape tomorrow's market,” he said.
“A particularly fascinating part of the fair for many visitors was the machines for industrial production, fully assembled and in working order. Each day there were live demonstrations of their capabilities. You don't find this type of presentation anywhere else in the world."