The 46th edition of SIGEP World – The World Expo for Foodservice Excellence, a premier event dedicated to Gelato, Pastry, Bakery, Coffee, Chocolate, and Pizza, was officially inaugurated on Saturday, 18th January 2025, at the Rimini Expo Centre. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was presided over by Italy’s Minister for Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Francesco Lollobrigida.
This year’s edition marks a milestone as the largest ever, solidifying SIGEP’s status as a global leader in the foodservice industry. Spanning an impressive 138,000 square meters, the event features 1,300 exhibiting brands and has attracted over 3,000 international buyers, underscoring its international appeal and influence.
In his opening address, IEG President Maurizio Ermeti highlighted the event’s remarkable growth and global significance:
“Forty-six editions of SIGEP are a testament to our evolution and dedication to the artisan foodservice industry. Since its inception in 1980, when we had just 180 exhibitors in a space equivalent to one of our current halls, SIGEP has grown into a world-renowned event.
Today, it positions Rimini at the heart of an international network through initiatives like SIGEP Asia in Singapore and SIGEP China in Shenzhen. And our journey doesn’t stop here.”
Ermeti also unveiled the new Guest Country project, a major initiative designed to strengthen international collaborations. Each edition will now highlight a specific foreign country, fostering deeper relationships and business opportunities.
“For this edition, we are proud to feature Saudi Arabia, represented by a large delegation of institutions and buyers. They will have the opportunity to explore the innovations and offerings of SIGEP World’s exhibitors. 
SIGEP is no longer just a trade show; it’s a hub for professional and cultural exchange in the industry. Through our SIGEP Vision observatory, we aim to support the sector with continuous research and innovation for all supply chains.”
Rimini Mayor Jamil Sadegholvaad emphasized SIGEP’s significance for the city and the industry at large:
“SIGEP World combines the excellence of Italian craftsmanship with the organizational expertise of IEG. Rimini stands as a year-round hub for hospitality, culture, and entertainment, and SIGEP reflects the very best of Italian creativity and professionalism. In the food sector, a cornerstone of our economy, SIGEP sends a strong message to global markets: we are here, showcasing our finest talents and skills.”
This year’s edition has garnered significant media interest, with journalists from around the globe in attendance to provide international and regional coverage. Representing Food Business Gulf & Middle East, Jessy George is among the distinguished media professionals covering the event, ensuring widespread exposure to the magazine’s global readership.
