Why It’s Important to Attend Food Exhibitions in Africa

I was recently invited to attend FoodAfrica 2023 – an international trade exhibition for food and beverages. This year’s exhibition marked the 8th annual edition and took place in Cairo’s Egypt International Exhibition Center (EIEC), in collaboration with Pacprocess Trade Fair.

I have to say, I was impressed to see all that is happening in the Egyptian food manufacturing and processing space. The exhibition left me inspired after seeing the heights being reached on the continent.

If you’re working in the food industry in Africa, attending events like this is an absolute must! Here’s why…

Get to know about our diverse offerings

This massive event hosted 800 exhibitors from more than 32 countries around the world, all eagerly looking to do business on the continent. From freshly baked breads and aromatic spices, to cured meats, fish and cheeses. Fresh exotic fruits, oils, rice, and ready-to-eat snacks and candy also filled the halls. The diverse array of products was impressive.

I was equally impressed by the food packaging manufacturers in attendance. From paper and plastic products to heavy duty machinery. Why look outside of this rich continent for your B2B culinary needs when pretty much everything is already here? Save on those shipping costs and explore intra-Africa trade!

Networking Galore

I was so fortunate to meet suppliers who are not only interested in exporting to other African countries, but have a keen interest in importing from them!

Food exhibitions are bustling hubs of industry professionals, from chefs and restaurateurs to suppliers and distributors. Attending these events gives you the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Who knows, you might just meet your future business partner or discover a hidden gem of a supplier – just like I did!

Stay Ahead of the Game

In the ever-evolving food industry, staying up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations is crucial. Food exhibitions are the perfect platform to witness cutting-edge techniques, emerging food trends, and groundbreaking technologies. From plant-based alternatives to sustainable packaging solutions, you’ll be at the forefront of the culinary revolution in Africa.

At FoodAfrica, I was fortunate enough to speak to experienced manufacturers who have been in business for 50 to 100 years! I was able to gain valuable insights on better methods for enhancing our food packaging and customer experience (stay tuned!).

Discover Hidden Gems

Africa is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with each region boasting its own unique flavors and traditional dishes. Exhibitions like these provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the lesser-known culinary gems from across the continent. From Egypt to Nigeria and beyond, you’ll be amazed by the rich tapestry of flavors waiting to be discovered.

Inspiration Galore

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a budding entrepreneur, attending food exhibitions on the continent is a surefire way to ignite your creativity. Witnessing the passion and dedication of fellow food enthusiasts, tasting innovative creations, and experiencing new cooking techniques will leave you brimming with inspiration. I personally returned from this event with so many fresh ideas. Get ready to take your culinary game to the next level!

Support Local Businesses

Food exhibitions are not just about showcasing the big players in the industry; they also provide a platform for small-scale producers and local businesses to shine. By attending these events, you’re not only supporting the growth of the food industry in Africa but also contributing to the economic development of local communities.

In Summary

If you have an opportunity to visit any food exhibition on the African continent, I’d encourage you to take it. These events aren’t just about the food – they’re about celebrating culture, fostering innovation, and connecting with passionate individuals. It’s a shame that on this continent, we tend to not know much about what our neighbors are doing. It’s important to make an effort to learn from and be inspired by all the wonderful things that are happening on this rich continent.

Let’s stay connected

Follow @biscuitboneblog on Instagram and Twitter (“X”) for more updates. Also check out our companies, Toasties and Board, for more context. Or my personal page, if you simply can’t get enough.

Is there anything else you’d like to know or share about the food industry? Leave a comment or send a message.