The first SIGEP Asia – an offshoot of SIGEP World in Rimini, Italy – introduced new artisanal gelato, pastries and beverages to the South-east Asian markets while retaining the strengths of Restaurant Asia (5th edition) and Speciality Food & Drinks Asia, Speciality Coffee & Tea Asia, and Food2Go takeaway and delivery exhibition.
Held at Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore from June 26-28, 2024, the event was a combination of the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG)’s tradeshow with those acquired from Conference & Exhibition Management Services and Montgomery Asia.
“IEG Asia is thrilled to present this unique opportunity to explore the synergy between innovative speciality products and food service excellence from Italy, Singapore and other participating countries,” said Ilaria Cicero, CEO of IEG Asia.
The event attracted over 11,000 attendees from South-east Asia and around the globe, bringing together industry professionals for a comprehensive programme of exhibitions, conferences, seminars, business meetings, masterclasses, and even a coffee championship. Over 300 exhibitors and brands from 30 countries and regions showcased their products and services at the tradeshow.
New features included a technology and innovation pavilion and sandbox showing new technologies for F&B operations, many with sustainability in mind; sparkling sake and coconut water; fancy coffee and tea flavours, cordial concoctions, and fruit-infused spirits and edible wafer spoons. Besides the many coffee stands, gelato and dessert creations also drew huge interest.
Among seldom-seen country pavilions were Inner Mongolia with several booths displaying a huge array of pumpkin and sunflower seeds; Mexico with chilli peppers, meat and dairy products; and Kuwait promoting spices, sauces and dates.
A HoReCa (hotel, restaurant and catering) section went beyond equipment to include AI applications, while the Italian Trade Agency and Italian Chamber of Commerce Singapore made for a strong Italian presence.
An F&B industry jobs portal was also launched at the show to attract locals to join the industry.
Cicero concluded: “We are thrilled with the overwhelming response. The co-located shows spotlighted the enthusiasm and vitality of the F&B industry in Singapore and the region. The new-found networks, connections and opportunities forged will thrust the industry to new heights.”
