IFEA 2014 attracting international exhibitors for second year

The exhibition is attracting exhibitors from all over the world, as they prepare to expose their brands to decision-makers from the burgeoning pan-African market that is looking for the latest and the best international and local products in the food and drink sector.

"The recent upsurge in food and drink expos in South Africa is a strong indication of the growing importance of the South African, and indeed the African market, in the global arena," says Christopher McCuin, event director of IFEA.

"We have been gratified by the strong interest in this show, which has all the makings of an international showcase of a wide range of the newest products in this sector of our economy. This is the place to be seen for any companies needing a powerful platform to grow their order books in this vibrant market."

Exhibitors

Exhibitors from Argentina, Belgium, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, India, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, UK, Ukraine and US; as well as from South Africa, Cote d'Ivoire, Mozambique and Swaziland have already confirmed participation, based on the positive reports and figures that came out of last year's show. All country pavilions have been allocated already and the show is running a waiting list which continues to grow; whilst limited individual stand availability remains.

"Business-to-business exhibitions, such as this, have long been the preferred platform for engagement, hosting, promotion - and indeed sales growth - by some of the world's biggest brands. These exhibitions are designed to promote face-to-face marketing while communicating a company's brand and service offering in a live environment; this is a tried and tested formula that succeeds. We don't believe there are any other platforms that can deliver such high levels of return on marketing investment when used properly - and indications are that the show will deliver above expectations," he concludes.

The visitor profile for IFEA includes senior representatives from South Africa and about 40 countries throughout the rest of Africa in sectors that include major retail groups, wholesalers, supermarkets, bakeries, bars, cafes, contract caterers, cost-section caterers, food and drink distributors, fast-food restaurants, hotels, independent retailers, rail, cruise liners, and airlines.

Show extras

Adding further value to both exhibitors and visitors, IFEA 2014 will feature show extras. These include:

• The Skillery, which brings 'celebrity sizzle' to the show with culinary demonstrations by renowned chefs covering a range of skills;
  
• The Hub, which will feature leading experts presenting local market trends and educational content to visitors in a free-to-attend business seminar programme with insights into the latest food and beverage trends from a panel of experts;
  
• New Products Showcase, which will feature a display of the latest and best products by exhibitors;
  
• The national finals of the South African Barista Championships will also be held at IFEA for the first time this year, promising theatre, drama and excitement from the country's leading Baristas.

For more information, go to www.ifea.co.za.