EVENT NEWS
Cocoa, chocolate and changing consumers in focus at London Chocolate Forum
With the London Chocolate Forum 2026 taking place on 5 October at London’s Hippodrome, the event will bring together chocolate makers, manufacturers, suppliers and experts to examine some of the issues and innovations in the sector. Cocoa supply, ingredient innovation, consumer
behaviour, sustainability and changing product formats all have a direct bearing on the bakery sector, where chocolate remains a key ingredient across everything from viennoiserie and biscuits to cakes and snacks. The 2026 programme will explore cocoa
production and resilience, fermentation, the economics of sustainable cocoa, the impact of GLP-1 treatments on chocolate consumption and the emergence of new consumer expectations. Previous attendees have highlighted the
value of bringing different parts of the industry together. “It’s always nice to share knowledge and to learn from each other,” said Andrea Camacho of Luker Chocolate, while CAPOL described the Forum as a valuable opportunity to engage with producers and identify developments relevant to its commercial focus. Find out more and book your place at the London Chocolate Forum 2026.
südback 2026 to spotlight digitalisation, AI and bakery innovation
südback 2026 will bring around 550 exhibitors together with bakery
professionals from
Germany and abroad in Stuttgart from 24–27 October, with the Bakers’ Trend Forum offering a programme focused on innovation, digitalisation and skills. Held at Stand 8C71 in Hall 8,
the forum will feature practical demonstrations, expert talks and creative presentations from the Württembergische Bäckerfachschule, Akademie Deutsches Bäckerhandwerk, vocational schools and industry specialists. Digitalisation and artificial intelligence will be key themes, with Simon Schwarz of Delicious Data examining how point-of-sale data and AI can support operational decisions, planning, sales and stock management. Sven Seubert will explore business development and
“The Bakers’ Trend Forum demonstrates how focused the bakery trade is on future success,” said Stefan Körber, CEO of Akademie Deutsches Bäckerhandwerk Südwest. “Covering everything from digital tools and new product ideas to vocational training and business development, it is exactly this variety that makes the forum so valuable.” The German Bread Institute will also be available for technical
product portfolio optimisation. Product development will also feature
prominently, with The Wild Bakers presenting creative concepts alongside sessions covering sales psychology, shopfitting, brand development, innovative baking techniques and apprentice retention. The Idea Bakery from Akademie Deutsches Bäckerhandwerk Südwest will provide practical insights into new recipes and craft-based approaches.
discussions, while business consultants and lawyers will offer advice on day-to- day industry issues. The südback Apprentice Rally will
provide a dedicated programme for young professionals, with participants tackling challenges around energy-efficient ovens, vegan snacks and industry developments. Further information about südback
2026 and the Bakers’ Trend Forum is available from the event organisers.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2026 • KENNEDY’S BAKERY PRODUCTION • 7
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