Rimini, January 18, 2025 – The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, officially opened the 46th edition of SIGEP World – The World Expo for Foodservice Excellence. Organized by Italian Exhibition Group, the event confirms its global leadership in the foodservice sector with 138,000 square meters of exhibition space, 1,300 exhibiting brands, and over 3,000 international buyers.
A Global Hub for Artisanal Excellence
Maurizio Ermeti, IEG President, highlighted SIGEP’s impressive growth:
“Since its foundation in 1980 to support artisan gelato makers during the summer season, SIGEP has grown from 180 exhibitors to a global event that now spans international editions in Singapore and Shenzhen. With our new ‘Guest Country’ initiative, we’ll spotlight one country per edition to foster commercial and cultural exchange. This year’s Guest Country: Saudi Arabia—represented by a major delegation of institutions and buyers.”
Rimini at the Center of the Foodservice World
Rimini Mayor Jamil Sadegholvaad underlined the event’s strategic value:
“SIGEP World showcases the best of Italian artisanal know-how in a city renowned for its hospitality and creativity. It’s a beacon of excellence and innovation, reinforcing Italy’s global influence in tourism and food culture.”
Roberta Frisoni added:
“This edition further strengthens Emilia-Romagna’s reputation as a leader in agri-food excellence. SIGEP promotes our local producers, artisans, and culinary heritage—attracting international visitors and bolstering economic and cultural ties.”
Sweet Sector Takes the Spotlight
Lino Stoppani (FIPE) emphasized SIGEP World’s relevance for foodservice professionals:
“SIGEP 2025 is a key event for the future of foodservice, showcasing innovation and sustainability. The artisanal dessert segment, particularly Italian gelato, represents a €15 billion global market—30% of which is made in Italy. Behind each gelato is a complex supply chain powered by expertise, innovation, and passion.”
Export and Innovation on the Rise
ICE President Matteo Zoppas shared the latest data:
“In 2023, the Italian confectionery sector reached €9.3 billion in revenue (+9% vs. 2022), marking a 47% growth since 2019. From January to October 2024, we recorded €8.7 billion in turnover (+14.5% YoY). SIGEP is a strategic platform to promote Italian agri-food excellence and technologies, and we’re aiming to hit €100 billion in exports in the coming years. For this edition, ICE brought 74 key buyers from target markets including Australia, the US, Canada, Japan, China, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, and 18 African cooperatives.”
A Statement from the Minister of Agriculture
Minister Lollobrigida concluded:
“SIGEP is a global showcase of Italian food excellence. We must continue our path toward internationalization to expand our export footprint and elevate Italy’s leadership in food and hospitality. Investing in Italian excellence strengthens the entire economy and promotes our food model—an economic pillar of the Italian System.”
Saudi Arabia Named SIGEP World 2025 Guest Country
As the official Guest Country, Saudi Arabia takes center stage. The Kingdom, set to host Expo 2030, is rapidly emerging as a key market for hospitality and foodservice innovation. SIGEP offers exhibitors a rare opportunity to connect with Saudi leaders, including major players like:
- Barn’s – coffee chain with over 800 stores
- Elite Hospitality / Al-Nahla Group – major hospitality player
- Al Tazaj – fast food chain with 120+ outlets
PRESS CONTACT SIGEP ITALIAN EXHIBITION GROUP
head of media relation & corporate communication: Elisabetta Vitali; press office manager: Marco Forcellini, Pier Francesco Bellini; press office coordinator: Luca Paganin; press office specialist: Mirko Malgieri international press office coordinator: Silvia Giorgi; media@iegexpo.it