PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 06/25 www.petpla.net 45 EVENT PREVIEW 45 EVENT PREVIEW This is new at drinktec 2025 One of the key additions to drinktec 2025 is the Liquidrome, a new space for dialogue between science, research and industry. “With the Liquidrome, we are creating a foundation for future-oriented exchange,” says Markus Kosak, Executive Director of the drinktec cluster. The Liquidrome will also host the Startup Zone, showcasing digital solutions like cloud-based maintenance systems as well as health-focused beverage concepts. The Innovation Guide has also been revised, helping visitors navigate the exhibition more effectively and discover the most relevant and forward-thinking solutions for their specific needs. Reflecting broader industry dynamics drinktec aims to reflect the industry’s broader strategic and economic challenges. “Our goal is for the fair to mirror the real state of the industry and respond to its challenges,” says Rolf Keller, Managing Director of Yontex, organiser of drinktec. Keller sees a fast-changing consumer landscape: “We are witnessing an increasing diversity in product development – from vegan and organic to sugar-free, alcoholfree and regional offerings. Beverages enriched with proteins or vitamins are gaining traction. Reusability and supply chain resilience are also key themes.” While innovation remains strong, the economic environment is marked by contrasting developments. The food processing machinery sector saw a decline in 2024. Only packaging machinery managed modest growth of 2% – largely driven by increased demand in beverage packaging. Trade barriers and geopolitical frictions, especially from the US, remain a concern. Yet the United States continue to be Germany’s largest export market for food and packaging machinery (up 7% in 2024 to EUR 1.8 billion). “Despite unpredictable US trade policies, we expect strong participation from American companies,” says Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the VDMA Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association. “They simply cannot meet their technology needs domestically.” Global trade in food and packaging machinery reached a record EUR 54.5 billion in 2024. Europe still leads, accounting for 70% of exports, with Germany and Italy at the forefront. However, China is catching up quickly, having doubled its export volume to EUR 6.6 billion over the past five years. “Many Chinese firms will exhibit at drinktec aiming to tap into new market potential through this highly international platform,” Clemens adds. In 2024, global sales of packaged beverages reached 1.1 trillion litres. According to Euromonitor, this figure will grow by 14% by 2028, with the strongest increases expected in Africa, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region. In saturated markets, qualitative growth through innovation and differentiation is the key driver. drinktec 2025 expected to be driving force Despite global economic uncertainties, industry sentiment is positive. drinktec 2025 is expected to deliver valuable impulses and concrete solutions for navigating future challenges. As Markus Kosak concludes: “We’ve seen enormous interest in drinktec around the globe. Dialogue with local industry associations has given us valuable insights into strategic priorities across different markets. This direct exchange is essential to positioning drinktec as the global hub for the beverage and liquid food industry.” www.drinktec.com
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