In the heart of Cologne, the Anuga 2023 Consumer Conference drew 165,000 attendees and hosted 7,500 exhibitors. Our Co-Founder, Sam Latif and Director, Dave Cumming attended the event and found it a great experience to represent our executive search business and a great opportunity for them to connect with current clients and forge new relationships.
This grand event, spanning several days, was brimming with innovation and a platform to explore the latest trends in the ever-evolving world of consumer food. Sam and Dave were grateful to learn about upcoming industry trends and groundbreaking advancements in the consumer food industry.
As the conference unfolded, it became evident that 2023 would be a pivotal year for the consumer food industry, as key trends took centre stage. Let’s delve into these trends that promise to shape the future of our diets and much more.
One of the standout trends at the conference was the ongoing surge of alternative meat proteins. This trend, which has gained momentum in the past decade, is now solidifying its place in mainstream diets. Plant-based and lab-grown meat options are not just catering to vegetarians and vegans but also appealing to flexitarians and carnivores, seeking more sustainable and ethical protein sources. However, the plant-based food movement is not just about meat alternatives; it extends to dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived products. The conference saw many plant-based options, showing how they have evolved from niche products to household staples.
Another interesting food trend was the revival of ancient grains and superfoods. These nutrient-rich ingredients, often inspired by the diets of ancient civilisations, are regaining attention for their potential health benefits and sustainable cultivation practices.
Moving onto the modern world, time is now a precious commodity for hectic lives, meaning convenience and snacking foods are reigning supreme. The conference therefore also explored the rising popularity of quick, easy-to-prepare, and on-the-go snacks, catering to consumers who spend less time cooking traditional meals. We witnessed weird and wonderful products and snacks such as pickle-flavoured soda and cannabis-infused chips…
The importance of good diet and health had a huge focus at the conference, consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and cleaner ingredients in their food. Products with fewer artificial ingredients and lower sugar content were spotlighted at the conference. The clean label movement is encouraging manufacturers to develop products that prioritise health and well-being. With the rise in health-conscious consumers, the industry is focusing on developing products and practices that promote overall well-being. This trend isn’t just about individual health but also the health of the planet.
Finally, the topic of sustainability in the consumer industry was a buzzword amongst exhibitors, and it was evident that sustainability had taken root in the food industry. Companies are actively seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint, reduce food waste, and promote ethical sourcing of ingredients. The commitment to sustainability is becoming a vital factor in consumer purchasing decisions.
In conclusion, the 2023 Consumer Food Conference in Cologne served as a powerful catalyst for change in the food industry. With a colossal number of attendees and exhibitors, it showcased the industry’s commitment to adapting to consumer demands and creating a better, more sustainable future. It’s clear that these innovations will have a profound impact on our health, the environment, and the future of the food industry.
Morgan Latif, known for its expertise in assembling diverse, high-performing leadership teams, introduced its “Project Hire” initiative earlier this year. This innovative program addresses the rising demand for high-calibre commercial talent at the national level. The success of this initiative, initially launched in the United States and across French, Italian and German-speaking European markets, has been truly remarkable.
In 2024, Morgan Latif aims to extend this initiative to new geographical areas, striving to maintain its position as a trusted partner in executive search and leadership consulting within the vision care industry as well as supporting our clients achieve their ambitious growth plans through commercial talent.
We look forward to seeing you at other conferences we are attending such as Anuga in Cologne and the International Food and Drinks conference in London in 2024.
Please contact @DaveCumming to understand how Morgan Latif can support your business hire and develop high-performing teams in the Consumer sector.
