Sigep World 2026, organized by the Italian Exhibition Group at the Rimini Exhibition Centre, took place from January 16 to 20, reaffirming its position as a global platform for the gelato, pastry, chocolate, coffee, bakery, and pizza sectors.

This edition saw a significant increase in international participation, with a 33% rise in foreign exhibitors from 45 countries, along with a strong Italian presence. The countries with the greatest growth by continent were the United States (+2%), Argentina (+40%), the Philippines (+78%), and Serbia (+29%).

The Top Buyer Program, a strategic collaboration between the Italian Trade Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, played a crucial role in attracting 500 buyers from 75 countries to Rimini, with a strong representation from the United States, India, Canada, China, Brazil, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore. In addition, 5,650 business meetings took place.

Gelato remains the cornerstone

Artisan gelato remains not only a symbol of Italian excellence in 2026, but also a strategic asset for the global foodservice industry, capable of generating profits, differentiation, and new opportunities in diverse markets and formats.

With the ‘Gelato Meets Chains’ initiative, Sigep World developed a project aimed at promoting the inclusion of gelato in international restaurant, hotel, café, and bakery chains. To reinforce this vision, the international campaign ‘What is Gelato?’ and the guide ‘Gelato Means Business’ provided data, models, and concrete examples to demonstrate how gelato can generate high margins, year-round consumption, and a rapid return on investment.

Cross-sector and connected hubs

Sigep World also demonstrated that the foodservice industry no longer operates in isolated sectors, but rather through increasingly interconnected supply chains. Cross-sector hubs such as the Kitchen Equipment Hub, the Frozen Product Hub, and the Digital District demonstrated how kitchen equipment, frozen foods, and digital technologies are now essential factors in format design, operational management, and international business growth.

Surprise Winner at the Gelato World Cup

At the competition level, Sigep World attendees experienced an exciting Gelato World Cup with a surprise winner: Singapore. Against all odds, Italy finished in ninth place after being penalized for an irregularity.

The Junior Pastry World Cup, aimed at those under 26, was also held. France emerged victorious, followed by South Korea and China.