RIMINI, Italy – The 45th edition of SIGEP – the International Exhibition of Artisan Gelato, Pastry, Bakery and Coffee organized by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) officially opened this morning at the Rimini Expo Centre. The opening ceremony featured speeches from Senate Vice President Gian Marco Centinaio, President of the Emilia-Romagna Region Stefano Bonaccini, Mayor of Rimini Jamil Sadegholvaad, and IEG President Maurizio Ermeti.
A highlight of the event was the dedication of the South Dome Hall to Lorenzo Cagnoni, the late IEG President who passed away in September 2023, honoring his vision and commitment to the growth of the fair and the exhibition sector.
The event continues until Wednesday, January 24, showcasing the artisanal supply chains of gelato, pastry, chocolate, bakery, and coffee, with a focus on product innovation and evolving consumer trends.
Key Statements
Maurizio Ermeti, IEG President, opened the ceremony by stating:
“We have permanently linked the name of our beloved President Lorenzo Cagnoni to the Rimini Expo Centre in recognition of his exceptional dedication. IEG's leadership has been built through the organization of top-level trade shows, with the strong support of a vibrant, engaged territory like ours. SIGEP this year welcomes more than 500 top buyers from 84 countries. We're already present in China and, starting this year, in Singapore too.”
Jamil Sadegholvaad, Mayor of Rimini, emphasized the deep connection between the city and SIGEP:
“SIGEP is Rimini, and Rimini is SIGEP. The evolution of this world-class fair reflects the international appeal and open spirit of our city. 2024 begins with a record-breaking SIGEP, showing our territory’s continued ability to grow and innovate — not only in terms of numbers, but in quality and excellence.”
Stefano Bonaccini, President of Emilia-Romagna Region, highlighted the strategic value of agri-food:
“The agri-food sector is a pillar of our regional economy and a global calling card, thanks to outstanding products and skills. SIGEP is part of this success story — growing more international and focused on quality and innovation every year. We are proud to host this world-class event.”
Gian Marco Centinaio, Vice President of the Senate, concluded with praise for Italian craftsmanship:
“SIGEP is a global showcase for Italian and international sweet artistry. Our professionals represent the best in blending tradition with innovation, creativity with technical skill. Thanks to them, Italy leads the world in artisanal gelato and can expand into new markets — with significant economic benefits nationwide.”
A Trade Fair Full of Innovations
Over five days, 28 halls will feature the latest from the world of sweet foodservice, including live demonstrations by top artisanal masters. Key 2024 trends include:
- The return of fruit-based creations in both pastry and gelato, aligning with health-conscious preferences.
- Sugar-free gelato is gaining ground.
- Savory gelato is breaking conventions.
- The chocolate sector introduces “cuvée” chocolates made from blends of origins.
- New ideas range from vegan aperitivo boards and flavored butters (like salmon or curry) to coffee made from coffee bean husks.
The fair also emphasizes sustainability, with many stands built to be reusable and recyclable, reducing waste by 50%. Exhibitors highlight not only products and ingredients, but also the latest equipment technologies, eco-packaging, and green design — offering a complete vision of the future of dessert consumption.
SIGEP 2024 Highlights
- 📍 Dates: January 20–24, 2024
- 🏢 Venue: Rimini Expo Centre
- 📊 Organizer: Italian Exhibition Group SpA
- 🤝 In collaboration with: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ICE Agency
- 🎖 Under the patronage of: Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Emilia-Romagna Region, Rimini Province, Rimini Chamber of Commerce, Rimini Municipality
- 🏷 Edition: 45th
- 🔁 Frequency: Annual
- 🌐 Admission: Reserved for trade professionals
🔗 Info: www.sigep.it