iba, the world’s leading trade fair for the baking and confectionary industry, is once again responding to the sector’s needs by showing its power as a trend-setter and driving force via a three-day online live event running from 15–17 March. ‘iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS’ is set to offer an unrivalled 72 hours of meeting new people and establishing new contacts ahead of the return of the physical iba tradeshow in October this year.

 

In light of the current pandemic-related restrictions and consequential lack of exchange within the industry, globally-leading baking sector tradeshow iba has expanded its portfolio of shows to include a virtual format: iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS. The three-day kick-off event for global networking in March 2021 is designed to fill the gaps in business opportunities early in the year, in advance of iba opening its doors live from 24–28 October 2021 at Fairground Munich, when the premier show returns to ring in the next round of high-quality business contacts.

iba, the world’s leading trade fair for the baking and confectionary industry, has always stood for international market relevance, new contacts, knowledge transfer, and innovation. To live up to this claim, the organising team – headed by project manager Cathleen Kabashi – will bring together global experts in the course of iba.CONNECTING EXPERTS from 15–17 March 2021. The basic concept: international networking and new contacts in March, more in-depth and personal business relationships, and products to experience in Munich in October. 

Strong impulses industry-wide in March 2021


The new format will serve as a global meeting place and, with its digital premiere, will be primarily aimed at the baking industry with an emphasis on the process and packaging technology market segment. The focus will be on lead generation, knowledge transfer, product presentations, and networking. Exhibitors will present their new products virtually and via direct interaction, as well as maintaining and expanding business relationships, while attendees will receive business impulses that are now urgently needed – by means of moving images, high-quality content, and specialist talks.

“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,” informed Cathleen Kabashi. “Numerous innovations have emerged; the industry has adapted, and – as a result of the current situation – has 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,” she advised.

Michael Wippler, President of the Central Association of the German Bakery Trade, added that iba is constantly evolving in its role as a market leader and trade fair for genuine innovations, new products, and premieres. “We are always one step ahead, and we are looking forward to yet another innovation this year: a totally new format! This exchange is to reaffirm our role as pioneers and to send an important message to the industry.” 

The best of both worlds – iba 2021


Partners of the fair have also welcomed the innovative concept. Kerwin Brown, CEO of Bakery Equipment Manufacturers & Allieds (BEMA), speaking for his members, made clear the high value of iba, and especially of the new complementary offer for him and the industry he serves. “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, being digital is the one element that connects us all and makes it possible for everybody to communicate, stressed Cathleen Kabashi, adding that the personal business contacts and consulting, product demonstrations as well as the atmosphere and opportunities that arise when an entire industry comes together live, will be on the table once again at iba 2021 in autumn. “I cannot download such an experience with all its senses and emotions, but right now we can create a space for contacts to be made. This will offer the chance to develop in the build-up to the on-site event,” she explained, in summary of the decision to hold this new generation of trade fairs.

For more information, please go to: https://connecting.iba.de