ADVERTORIAL
2026: WHERE THE FUTURE OF SWEETS AND SNACKS TAKES SHAPE
From 1–4 February 2026 in Cologne, ISM brings the global sweets and snacks industry together to explore emerging trends, spark innovation and shape the future of indulgence.
E
very industry has its natural meeting points — moments when people pause, exchange perspectives and reassess what is changing. For the global sweets and snacks industry, this moment
is unmistakably ISM. From 1 to 4 February 2026, Cologne will once again become the place where ideas converge, conversations drive the market forward and the future of the industry takes shape. Trade visitors and companies from 71 countries come together to
exchange knowledge, build new business relationships and identify opportunities. They explore shifting consumer preferences, emerging trends and new growth areas. Throughout the halls, the momentum of an industry in transition is tangible. For decision-makers, the world’s leading trade fair for sweets and
snacks offers something increasingly rare: focus. A place where trends can be assessed in context, innovations evaluated for their real market potential and global perspectives brought together without distraction. In 2026, this relevance is growing as markets expand, expectations change and the boundaries between indulgence, functionality and sustainability continue to blur. ISM captures this transformation with precision and turns it into an experience that informs and inspires in equal measure.
Another key highlight is the debut of the ISM Start-up Pitches
Award on 2 February. Eight selected start-ups will present their concepts and products live on stage, where an expert jury will select the winner. The session will be hosted by food entrepreneur, investor and start-up mentor Robert Kronekker, who will also support the participants in their preparation. The programme is complemented by the Expert Stage, developed
TRADE VISITORS AND COMPANIES FROM 71
COUNTRIES COME TOGETHER TO EXCHANGE KNOWLEDGE, BUILD NEW BUSINESS
Highlights of ISM 2026 How this transformation translates into concrete formats and experiences becomes clear in the programme highlights of ISM 2026. The Talks & Tasting Stage returns to Hall 10.1 as one of the central programme formats. Following its successful debut in 2025, the stage will be larger, more interactive and more content-driven. It combines expert talks, interactive tastings and creator formats, offering innovative content directly from exhibitors, creators and podcasts.
RELATIONSHIPS AND IDENTIFY OPPORTUNITIES
jointly by ISM and ProSweets Cologne. As the central knowledge hub, it reflects the entire industrial value chain of the sweets and snacks industry. Experts address the topics shaping strategic decision-making today, including sustainability, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, rising raw material prices and the shortage of skilled labour. For the first time, ISM is dedicating a thematic area to functional confectionery. The new ISM Functional Sweets area, located within Lab5 by ISM, responds to the growing trend towards sweets that combine indulgence with added health benefits. Curated information, product presentations and tastings provide visitors with a structured overview of this emerging segment.
Ingredients at the starting point of innovation With ISM Ingredients, raw materials move firmly into the spotlight. The
new platform connects manufacturers with suppliers of base ingredients, flavours, colours, functional components and semi-finished products, highlighting the strategic role of sourcing and formulation in product development. A central element within the trade fair is the Special Show Ingredients. Covering 200 m, the curated trend area explores how we will snack in the future, presenting new ingredients and processing technologies as well as inspiring product ideas from around the world.
One ecosystem, one meeting point Together with ISM Ingredients and ProSweets Cologne, ISM 2026 forms a connected ecosystem in which the entire value chain becomes visible and accessible. This integrated approach accelerates innovation and strengthens collaboration across disciplines. Building on this spirit of connection, the ISM Opening Night — open to
all participants of ISM, ISM Ingredients and ProSweets Cologne — sets the tone for the days ahead. The evening marks the festive prelude and brings the international sweets and snacks industry together in a relaxed atmosphere – to enjoy live music, culinary highlights and many networking opportunities. Discover trends, forge partnerships, and shape the sweet future – at ISM 2026.
For more information, visit
www.ism-cologne.com. 30 • KENNEDY’S CONFECTION • DECEMBER/JANUARY 2025/26
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