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Majed Al-Argoubi, CEO of the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones, or Modon, launched the inaugural SaudiFood Manufacturing show, which ran from April 30-May 2 at ROSHN Front.
Al-Argoubi toured the exhibition’s aisles, visiting the stands of many national and international companies, as well as countries. More than 500 global players from 35 countries participated in the exhibition, from across the processing, packaging and ingredients sectors.
Opening the Food Forward Summit, Al-Argoubi stressed the importance of the event for showcasing the economic transformation of the Kingdom and advancing the industrial base to realize Saudi Vision 2030. Bringing together manufacturers and industry, SaudiFood Manufacturing is enforcing global partnerships and solidifying the Kingdom’s vision to be the perfect destination for industry, he said.
“The industrial sector is going to increase both the GDP and abilities of youth in the Kingdom. We are making impressive growth through Saudi Vision 2030, and Made in Saudi is remarkable for expanding cities across the country and achieving our goals,” Al-Argoubi added.
The Modon CEO’s speech was followed on stage by leading food futurist Tony Hunter of Future of Food Consulting, speaking for the first time ever in Saudi Arabia. He outlined the technologies advancing the personalization of food and showcased the tools increasing access to nutritious food. “SaudiFood Manufacturing is looking into the future, optimizing and maximizing the opportunities based on new technologies. There is a will to make things happen in the Kingdom with a vision for the future and everyone is pushing in the same direction to make Saudi Arabia one of the hubs for food manufacturing in the region,” said Hunter.
The first day of SaudiFood Manufacturing also saw the winners of the inaugural SaudiFood Manufacturing Awards announced. Aimed at recognizing innovative products and technologies that enhance productivity, offer greater convenience, and promote sustainability within the F&B manufacturing sector, the awards were organized in three categories. Brenntag won the Best Ingredients Innovation Award for its plant-based Greek-style cheese alternative, while Multivac scooped the Best Packaging Innovation Award for its TX series and smart services. DC Norris and Co. came out top in the Best Processing Innovation category for the DCN Jet Cook, which uses advanced steam technology for sustainable food production.
SaudiFood Manufacturing is affiliated with leading trade event Gulfood Manufacturing.