The 62nd edition of the Mostra Internazionale del Gelato (MIG), held in Longarone from November 27 to 30, 2022, highlighted the significant presence of professionals from Germany and Austria, who together accounted for over 75% of foreign visitors. Notable associations such as Uniteis e.V. (Union of Italian Gelato Makers in Germany) and AGIA (Association of Italian Gelato Makers in Austria) actively participated in the event.
Stefano Bortolot, President of Uniteis, expressed satisfaction with the fair's outcome, noting positive sentiments aligned with a successful season. He emphasized the importance of the fair for their association, especially as Uniteis is a member of Longarone Fiere Dolomiti. Bortolot also highlighted the successful relocation of Artglace's headquarters to Longarone, stating, "Gelato has returned home."(Marcadoc)
The final day featured the Uniteis Assembly, where Bortolot summarized 2022 as a positive year for their category. He acknowledged the initial uncertainties due to COVID-19, which dissipated with the easing of restrictions. Bortolot credited the association's efforts in keeping members informed through newsletters and their independent magazine, Uniteis News. He also mentioned the benefits of various agreements that provide members with useful services for managing their businesses. Being part of ZDH, the German Confederation of Skilled Crafts, and the group of food sector artisan associations, allows them to maintain high-level institutional contacts, which proved crucial in addressing energy cost increases. Through collective efforts and pressure on relevant ministries, significant measures were achieved to support small and medium-sized artisan enterprises.
AGIA's presence was also significant, with their customary Assembly held on Tuesday, November 29, in the Council Hall of Longarone Fiere. President Silvio Molin Pradel viewed this MIG as evidence of a true recovery. He emphasized the fair's importance in addressing current and pressing sector issues. During the Assembly, discussions focused on rising raw material costs and strategies to counteract energy price increases. Actions to be taken will vary depending on each gelateria's context. For instance, in larger urban centers, delivery services have become indispensable, not only becoming a consumer habit but also offering cost savings for both gelaterias and customers.(ilgelatoartigianale.info, AEFI)
On the same day, Uniteis hosted a seminar on fiscal updates in Germany, featuring lawyer Carsten Rothbart, head of the fiscal sector at ZDH for the food group. The seminar covered new regulations concerning cash registers, tax controls, and government aid to combat rising energy costs.
The event concluded with the presentation of Germany's 2023 Flavor of the Year, "Tiziano," characterized by a deep red hue with violet shades. Inspired by grape and prosecco, this flavor pays homage to Giuseppe Cipriani and one of his famous cocktails. The recipe was developed by the Masters of the Italian Gelato Academy in Germany, who plan to introduce four additional flavors in the "sparkling cocktails" series throughout the year.
For more information, visit the official website: www.mostradelgelato.com.