Italian artisanal gelato confirms its leadership in Europe and gets ready to conquer new international markets. After a positive summer season, with a +3% value growth compared to 2024, the entire supply chain is preparing to showcase itself at SIGEP World 2026, scheduled at Rimini Expo Centre from January 16–20, 2026.
SIGEP World 2026: the world’s largest trade fair for artisanal gelato
Organized by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG), SIGEP World – now in its 47th edition – is the leading international event for artisanal gelato, together with pastry, chocolate, coffee, bakery, and pizza.
The 2026 edition is expected to be record-breaking, featuring:
- 1,300 exhibiting brands from over 30 countries
- 30 exhibition halls
- Professional operators and buyers from 150+ nations
The show will offer the most complete overview of the artisanal gelato value chain: cutting-edge technology and equipment, refrigerated display cases, ingredients and semi-finished products, shop design and furniture, as well as the latest digital solutions for foodservice businesses—from independent gelato shops to restaurant chains, QSR (Quick Service Restaurants), fine dining establishments, and luxury hospitality.
Italy drives gelato consumption in Europe
According to Circana CREST data, Italy, France, and Spain together accounted for 68% of gelato servings sold in Europe’s top five markets.
Despite an unpredictable summer season with unfavorable weather conditions, gelato has confirmed its status as an affordable luxury that consumers are unwilling to give up.
- Italy’s overall summer growth 2025: +3%
- Central Italy: +5% (boosted by tourism in art cities)
- Southern Italy: +4%
- Northern Italy: minimal growth due to bad weather
The Italian artisanal gelato market today is valued at around €3 billion, with more than 70% of revenues generated during the summer season.
International expansion strategies: focus on Germany and India
SIGEP World 2026 will strengthen its role as a hub for the internationalization of Italian gelato.
- Germany: the new Sigepland project will attract thousands of German professionals with guided tours, supported by a direct Munich–Rimini flight during the trade fair. Germany is the second-largest market worldwide for gelato shops after Italy.
- India – Guest Country 2026: India’s official presence highlights the growing potential of the Asian market for Italian gelato and hospitality industries. The Indian delegation will discover firsthand the opportunities offered by artisanal gelato.
- Global campaign “What is Gelato?”: promoted with Acomag and Unione Italiana Food, this digital campaign will educate international investors and operators about Italian gelato culture, quality, and its innovative applications in foodservice through workshops and masterclasses.
Competitions: Italy defends its title at the Gelato World Cup
One of the most anticipated highlights of SIGEP World 2026 will be the 11th Gelato World Cup, the biennial competition featuring the world’s top gelato professionals.
Italy, reigning champion in 2024, will compete against 11 other elite nations: France, Belgium, Poland, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, China, Argentina, Mexico, Peru, and Ecuador.
Teams will face eight thrilling challenges, combining technical precision, taste, and artistic creativity.
Conclusion: artisanal gelato as an ambassador of Made in Italy
With solid growth across Europe and increasingly structured international expansion strategies, Italian artisanal gelato confirms its role as a true ambassador of Made in Italy worldwide.
SIGEP World 2026 will not only be a global trade fair but also a strategic platform to enhance the entire supply chain, create business opportunities, and strengthen Italy’s leadership in the sweet and foodservice industries.
More info at https://www.sigep.it/