In recent years, the B2B foodservice market has undergone major transformation, driven by the digitalization of supply chains and the adoption of new, more efficient, and sustainable purchasing models. According to the latest analyses, the global value of transactions managed through B2B digital platforms reached approximately $45 billion last year and is expected to exceed $75 billion by 2033, with an estimated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 6%.
During Milano Wine Week, NielsenIQ unveiled the latest edition of WiNeIQ, an analysis that captures the current state of the wine industry. The data confirm a well-established trend: people are drinking less, but choosing better. The search for meaningful experiences and a growing preference for quality wines - especially whites and sparkling wines - are shaping consumption both at home and in the on-trade channel.
2026 is expected to be a year characterized by volatility and more cautious consumer choices. Shoppers are evaluating every purchase with greater care, focusing on convenience, practicality, trust, and genuine product value. For the food & beverage industry, this means rethinking strategies and competitive models.
Quality, safety, and sustainability are becoming decisive factors for winning over consumers and buyers, with packaging evolving from a simple container into a strategic asset. For food producers and distributors, new smart and active technologies are opening exciting opportunities: packaging that tracks freshness, detects micro-leaks, or releases natural substances to extend shelf life. These solutions not only reduce waste and management costs but also create a real competitive edge in terms of brand image, positioning, and access to new markets.
The European Union and Indonesia have signed an economic partnership agreement that creates new opportunities for the food industry. Gradual tariff reductions and streamlined procedures are designed to facilitate trade, while introducing clearer and more transparent rules for participating businesses.
Registration is now open for the 2025 edition of Organic & Natural Products Expo, taking place 17–19 November at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Now in its 23rd year, the event is widely regarded as the Middle East's leading hub for the organic, natural, and halal industries.
A recent Datassential study offers an in-depth look at ice cream consumption habits across Europe, covering both at-home and out-of-home occasions. The findings highlight notable differences between major markets - Italy, Germany, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom - and provide valuable insights for producers, distributors, and foodservice operators.
When food & beverage companies producing complementary products collaborate, they unlock new business opportunities: reaching new buyers and opening sales through new channels. In B2B, cross-selling isn’t just about selling more - it’s about building a value ecosystem that benefits everyone: producers, distributors, buyers, and end consumers. This article outlines practical cross-selling strategies food & beverage companies can use to build effective, long-term partnerships.
For companies seeking new opportunities in the global food supply chain, innovation and reliability are key factors in choosing the right partners. At Private Label Middle East 2025, MAFI will showcase a combination of cutting-edge technologies, sustainable practices, and a diversified product portfolio designed to meet the evolving needs of food manufacturers, distributors, and private label brands. From AI-powered production processes to eco-friendly sourcing and packaging, the company's latest solutions offer practical advantages: consistency in quality, efficiency in supply, and the flexibility to serve different markets and applications. These elements make MAFI's presence at PLME 2025 a must-follow event for professionals looking to expand their product ranges and strengthen their competitive edge.
How can a food producer capture the attention of distributors, importers, and retailers? And how can distributors and importers evaluate new brands and products by also considering their communication strategy?
Tuscan cured meats, renowned for their superior quality, continue to achieve growing success in international markets. This trend represents a strong opportunity for distributors, importers, retailers, and food service operators, who can differentiate their portfolios with premium products that are increasingly sought after by consumers focused on quality and origin. Below we explore the most iconic Tuscan specialties, the business opportunities they generate, and the advantages for buyers looking to expand their assortment with prestigious products.
From 4 to 6 November 2025, the Dubai World Trade Centre will host the latest edition of Gulfood Manufacturing, the leading Middle East & Africa exhibition for machinery, ingredients, and logistics solutions serving the food industry. The event offers a unique platform for companies and professionals across the food supply chain, providing a complete overview of the technologies and trends that are reshaping the global food & beverage sector.
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.