The ecological transition is no longer seen merely as a regulatory obligation. For most European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it has become a strategic driver of growth and competitiveness. According to the Climate Transition Barometer, 85% of European SMEs now view decarbonization as a growth opportunity - up from 67% last year. The shift is even more relevant in the agri-food sector, where companies considering sustainability a strategic priority jumped from 50% to 80% in just one year.
Private label growth reflects a structural shift in consumer behavior and the purchasing strategies of modern retail. More buyers are seeking customizable, sustainable, and fast-to-market solutions. Private Label Middle East 2025 stands out as a key platform connecting global demand with qualified supply in the food & beverage industry.
Food and beverage distributors, importers and producers have major growth potential by positioning themselves as specialized suppliers for retail e-commerce businesses. Online food retailers not only require a diverse and high-quality product selection - they increasingly depend on informative, engaging content that drives purchase intent. Suppliers who provide rich content and integration tools for their products are in a strategic position to leverage the rise of online shopping and become value-added partners for digital resellers.
Following the successful 2024 edition - which saw a significant rise in both exhibitor and visitor participation from around the world - ISM Middle East will return from September 15 to 17, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event aims to strengthen its position as a B2B hub for innovation in the confectionery, snack, and seasonal specialty sectors across emerging markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
Food packaging recyclability takes a significant step forward with the introduction of new tools designed to support more circular solutions. The Food and Beverage Carton Alliance (FBCA) has introduced RECY:CHECK, a certification protocol developed to assess the recyclability of fiber-based composite packaging (FBCP). At the same time, FBCA has published the 2025 edition of its "Design for Recycling" Guidelines, which help guide the development of recycling-friendly cartons. These two complementary resources provide tangible support to businesses across the supply chain, helping accelerate the shift toward sustainable and regulation-compliant packaging solutions.
What are the implications for food industry companies, the available technological solutions - both established and emerging - and the benefits of adopting innovative traceability systems? According to a recent Research and Markets report, the global food traceability market is projected to reach $20.8 billion by 2025 and grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9%, reaching $57.2 billion by 2034. This impressive growth is fueled by rising concerns over food safety, evolving national and international regulations, and increasing consumer demand for transparency and security.
Christmas remains one of the most important periods of the year for the confectionery sector, marked by a growing demand for products that combine artisanal craftsmanship with creative flair. Costa Dolci responds to this demand with a collection that blends the heritage of Italian panettone with the distinctive aromas and flavors of Sicilian pastry, using carefully selected local ingredients, meticulous production techniques, and premium packaging tailored to high-end markets.
Italian Fresh Cheeses: A Strategic Asset for Global Food Professionals. 52% Export Growth in 5 Years
The global appetite for Italian cheeses shows no signs of slowing down. As consumers worldwide seek out authentic food experiences, Italian dairy products continue to drive demand across diverse international markets, offering importers and distributors a strong value proposition through premium positioning and consumer trust.
Sardinia, a land with a deep-rooted pastoral heritage, stands out on the international stage for its production of traditional cheeses - authentic ambassadors of a region rich in history and biodiversity. As consumer interest in genuine products with strong identity and traditional craftsmanship continues to grow, Sardinian cheeses present a valuable opportunity for distributors, retailers, and restaurateurs aiming to offer premium-quality selections.
Italy continues to distinguish itself in the agri-food sector by successfully combining tradition, innovation, and a strong export orientation. Recent data published by Unione Italiana Food confirms the sector's solid performance and its ability to adapt to global market shifts while meeting evolving consumer expectations.
The Italian agri-food sector is increasingly embracing sustainable practices in its production processes, making its products more appealing both domestically and internationally. This shift addresses two growing demands: reducing environmental impact and meeting the rising expectations of consumers and buyers for ethical, transparent, and responsible products. Recent market data and analyses show that Italian companies are enhancing product value not only through quality, but also by adopting regenerative practices and circular economy models. Effectively communicating these efforts is now a key strategy for standing out in both local and global markets.
Following the success of its first edition, the AgriNext Awards & Conference returns on November 5-6, 2025, reaffirming its position as a global hub for agricultural innovation. The event will bring together industry leaders, startups, investors, and institutional representatives to explore the future of farming and address its most pressing challenges.
The alcoholic beverage sector is undergoing rapid change, shaped by new generational values, growing health awareness, and changing consumption habits. Companies that can read these shifts and anticipate evolving demand stand to gain a clear competitive edge, both now and in the future.
Health and wellness are no longer just trends - they've become established global lifestyles, increasingly influencing consumers' everyday choices. This shift is reshaping purchasing behaviors, with a growing focus on nutritional quality, product transparency, and the impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. But what are consumers really looking for? And what opportunities does this create for food & beverage companies?
The Food & Beverage industry continues to be a key driver of Made in Italy. Recent data from the first quarter of 2025, published by Confartigianato, confirm the vitality of the artisanal food sector and its growing contribution to economic development both domestically and internationally.
Influencer marketing and social media are reshaping how consumers discover and connect with food and beverage products. With the persuasive influence of creators and the viral nature of digital platforms, this form of marketing can significantly affect consumer preferences, buying habits, and interest in new products or culinary trends. Psychological triggers like FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), trust in relatable and credible influencers, and frequent exposure to engaging content all contribute to the growing popularity and commercial impact of brands that invest in this strategy.