By Dr. Jörg Häseler, Chefredakteur Sweets Processing

The international Anuga FoodTec 2024 – the leading trade fair for food technology – in the cathedral city on the Rhine is now history again. There were a number of innovations on show there, which are presented in this issue. It is always a pleasure to see the commitment of the companies at the trade fairs. I raise my imaginary hat and admire the dedication with which the stand builders master this challenge. I also look with respect at the machines that are moved for these events. There is a huge amount of logistics behind it, which first has to be set up. Metre-long packaging lines are presented at an exhibition centre for just a few days and then return after a short time.

Interaction with visitors is important at such events, as trade fairs are ideal platforms for communicating ideas, developments, products and values to the world. Companies can be approachable and, above all, present. I pay tribute to the stand operators, employees and stand builders, because those who are involved here rarely see daylight during the course of the trade fair and can get a breath of fresh air. If, as was the case at the International Green Week in Berlin at the beginning of January, brass bands were playing and creating an extremely noisy backdrop, I would very quickly be at the end of my tether.

With this in mind, you will certainly approach the exhibiting companies differently at the next trade fair and know what the people on the other side are doing for us visitors.