Reconnecting the potato chain: Interpom 2021 is a go!

We can now confirm that INTERPOM will go ahead! From 28 to 30 November 2021, the global potato sector will be able to gather in Kortrijk Xpo, as it used to do in the past. This will be a huge boost for the organizing team, for Belgapom, and most definitely for all exhibitors who are really looking forward to this ultimate live networking and business experience.

The exciting news came after the most recent advisory committee meeting in Belgium. After a very long forced break, events such as trade fairs will be allowed to reopen their doors as of 30 July. This will be possible in a safe environment with a minimum of restrictions.

INTERPOM is the most targeted indoor trade fair in Europe for the entire potato sector where the whole chain is represented, from cultivation to processing and marketing. The 20th edition that will take place at the end of this year will be the first major indoor meeting place for the potato sector and is much awaited. In its staged coronavirus exit strategy, the Belgian government decided to list trade fairs under the trade protocol.

This means that, when the rules will be relaxed, the rules that apply to trade fairs will be the same as those that apply to retail outlets, shopping centres, etc. From 30 July onwards, the rules that apply to trade fairs will thus be different from those that apply to events such as festivals, which will allow INTERPOM to welcome as many visitors as it usually does.

The most important news, however, is that everyone working in the potato sector will be able to meet face to face again in autumn 2021. We have noticed that exhibitors, visitors and our partners are particularly eager to network and do business in person again!

The exhibition theme will be 'Let's reconnect the potato chain', indicating that INTERPOM 2021 will fully fulfil its role as a meeting platform for all the links in the potato chain, and thus help stimulate the much-needed recovery.

It will be a truly exceptional edition, where people will reminisce about a very tough period for the entire chain, and above all – with a view to the future – prepare for the 2022-2023 season with the corresponding contract negotiations.

90% of INTERPOM already sold out: 300 exhibitors from 14 countries

INTERPOM will present a particularly comprehensive and specific range of products, machines and services for the entire chain: growers, agricultural contractors, processors, packers, buyers and traders of fresh and processed potatoes. With six months to go before INTERPOM opens its doors, 90% of the fair is already sold out, bringing together 300 exhibitors from 14 countries.

Once again, every market segment will be well represented, with a noticeable increase in the number of machine manufacturers for the potato processing industry, more suppliers providing solutions for the storage of potatoes, and a widening range of new digital technologies.

Sustainable innovations first

Exhibitors' latest products and services will receive special attention thanks to an 'INNOVATION SHOWCASE TOUR'. Prior to the fair, an independent group of experts will make a selection of relevant innovations in the market that provide clear added value for the further sustainability and professionalisation of the potato sector. These must-see innovations will be highlighted at the fair in a special tour and through digital channels.

INTERPOM is also strongly committed to sharing knowledge through a seminar programme. Belgapom is working out a very interesting programme based on current themes that are relevant for the entire potato chain: potato storage without chemical germination inhibitors, the Green Deal and Farm to Fork strategy, climate change and water use in agriculture, residual flows in the potato processing industry, the impact of changing consumption patterns on the Belgian potato market, the developments regarding local distribution channels and international market developments.

Various innovations will be discussed on this occasion. Romain Cools, former Belgapom general secretary, will be in charge of coordinating and moderating this seminar programme in Dutch, French and English.

INTERPOM 2021 will thus definitely provide a new impetus for a strong, dynamic and sustainable Belgian & European potato chain.