Setting trends in the global baking industry is what iba, the Munich-based triennial trade fair, is known for. Once again, iba responding to current industry needs by addressing global restrictions and limited personal interaction. In March, iba will expand its portfolio to include a virtual format: iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS.
The three-day kick-off event for global networking will take place in March 15-17 to fill the gap of business opportunities before iba opens its doors live October 24-28, 2021 at Fairground Munich, ringing in the next round of high-quality business contacts.
The world’s leading trade fair for the baking and confectionary industry, iba is known for international market relevance, new contacts, knowledge transfer and innovation. To live up to its claim, the iba team, led by project manager Cathleen Kabashi, developed iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS to provide international networking, in-depth and personal business relationships, and product innovation discussion to enhance the value of October’s live iba experience.
The new digital format will serve as a global meeting place primarily focused on the baking industry with an emphasis on processing and packaging technology. The concept is designed to deliver lead generation, knowledge transfer, product presentations and networking, all in one experience, prior to the trade fair. Exhibitors will present their new products virtually and via direct interaction, with the opportunity to expand and maintain business relationships. The experience will provide attendees with personal interaction with exhibitors along with a state-of-the-art virtual experience.
“We are constantly in contact with our customers, and we are aware of the strong need for exchange and the necessity of reliable, successful discussion platforms,” Kabashi said. “Numerous innovations have emerged; the industry has adapted, and, as a result of the current situation, come up with new ideas for itself. The new format will gather international industry experts in March, setting the course for customer interaction and leads that can network at the first industry meeting point of the year. It will satisfy their pent-up demand digitally and securely.”
Michael Wippler, president of the Central Association of the German Bakery Trade, noted that iba’s ability to evolve as an innovative trade fair has led to a seamless integration of iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS as a precursor to October’s traditional live event.
“We are constantly in contact with our customers, and we are aware of the strong need for exchange and the necessity of reliable, successful discussion platforms," Kabashi said.
“We are always one step ahead, and we are looking forward to yet another innovation this year: a totally new format,” Wippler said. “This exchange is to reaffirm our role as pioneers and to send an important message to the industry.”
Kerwin Brown, BEMA CEO, lauded iba’s innovation in creating international connections. “iba is a must-attend event for our global industry, and iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS offers us even more opportunities amid these unprecedented times to create meaningful connections with new international partners and to conduct business.”
Right now, everyone in the world is relying on digital technology for developing and maintaining business relationships through personal interaction, and iba’s new platform provides a new venue to develop those opportunities before the industry can come together again in person.
“We cannot download such an experience with all its senses and emotions, but we can create a space for contacts to be made,” Kabashi said. “This is the chance to build excitement leading up to the on-site event.”
The launch of iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS ushers in a new generation of trade fairs.
For more information, visit connecting.iba.de.
