Gulfood 2019 to showcase global diversity of food

The 24^th edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition, will run at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from February 17-21, 2019.

Spread across 1,000,000 sqft, Gulfood 2019 will see 5,000 exhibitors and 120 country pavilions vying for business with the latest F&B produce and showcases across eight primary market sectors – including Beverages; Dairy; Fats & Oils; Pulses, Grains & Cereals; Health, Wellness & Free-from; Meat & Poultry; Power Brands; and World Food.

Being held under a new theme – ‘The World of Good, The World of Food’ – Gulfood 2019 will showcase the global diversity of food via its international exhibitor base and a major pool of Michelin-starred chefs participating in the all-new Tastes of the World competition. Many of the largest country pavilions are already committed to the contest, including France, Germany, Spain, Japan and Brazil.

Highlighting the ‘good’ side is shifting consumer preferences for health food options and other industry-shaping topics will feature in the Gulfood Innovation Summit from February 18-20. Ranging from sector disruptors such as Beyond Meat, to major global entities including The United Nations World Food Programme, the Summit will feature in-depth discussions and exclusive question-and-answer sessions with globally acclaimed chefs, influencers and industry leaders on the challenges of introducing breakthrough concepts to local markets.

“Gulfood continues to underline its trend-setting status as global industry pioneer and the 2019 show raises the bar even higher. The diversity of the content on offer and new immersive experiences, in addition to increased potential for new market opportunities, will enable visitors to get the most out of their Gulfood stay while ensuring exhibitors continue to get access to the audience they most wish to meet – buyers with specific interests in their sectors,” says Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice president, DWTC.

Also new for Gulfood 2019 is a range of immersive features designed to enhance visitor experience and facilitate greater business opportunities, including CxO Club, Start-Up Programme, the Meat-Me competition, Tea House and a dedicated Health Lab.

“The new features are designed to reflect the trends the industry is currently undergoing and will bring new dynamics to a show that is already well known for its vibrancy in product and service innovation,” adds LohMirmand.

With a packed exhibitor house and vibrant new features, DWTC is confident that Gulfood 2019 will see the show attract upwards of 98,000 attendees from 193 countries. Together with well-established features of Halal World Food and Discover Zone, which highlights industry innovation, and the CEZVE/IBRIK World Championship, DWTC has once again succeeded in widening the show’s scope and capabilities as it heads towards its silver anniversary in 2020.